CDPH Lead Inspector/Assessor California State Practice Exam

When using bark or gravel for soil control, what is the maximum allowed level of lead?

1. 100 ppm

2. 200 ppm

3. 300 ppm

4. 400 ppm

The correct answer is: 200 ppm

The maximum allowed level of lead when using bark or gravel for soil control is set at 200 ppm (parts per million). This standard is in place to protect public health, especially in areas where children may play or where food is grown, as lead can be harmful even at low levels of exposure. Regulatory guidelines are established based on extensive research into the health impacts of lead and its potential to accumulate in the human body, leading to various health issues, particularly in young children. The threshold of 200 ppm reflects a balance between allowing for the use of alternative materials like bark or gravel while ensuring that lead levels remain low enough to prevent adverse health effects. When considering options such as 100 ppm, 300 ppm, or 400 ppm, it becomes clear that 200 ppm is designed to be a safe middle ground, minimizing risks associated with lead exposure in the environment where these materials are used. Hence, the standard appropriately addresses the concerns related to lead contamination while enabling the functional use of organic materials for soil control.