Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead Risk Assessor Practice Exam

What defines Target Housing in relation to lead exposure?

1. Any building built after 1978

2. Any building where a child under 6 visits for a total of 60 hours per year

3. Any building that is unoccupied

4. Any building used solely for commercial purposes

The correct answer is: Any building where a child under 6 visits for a total of 60 hours per year

Target Housing is specifically defined as any housing built before 1978 that is occupied by, or is expected to be occupied by, a child under the age of six. This definition highlights the increased vulnerability of young children to lead exposure, as their developing bodies and brains are at greater risk of harm from lead. The rationale behind this focus is due to the negative health impacts that lead can have on children, including developmental issues, learning disabilities, and other serious health concerns. The reference to a child visiting a building for a certain number of hours per year emphasizes the need for assessment and precaution in environments frequented by young children, even if they do not reside there full-time. This helps identify locations where lead hazards may exist and require remediation to protect children’s health. The other choices fail to capture this critical concern regarding children and lead exposure. For instance, buildings constructed after 1978 would not be classified as Target Housing due to the ban on lead-based paint in residential properties, while unoccupied buildings or those used solely for commercial purposes do not meet the criteria focused on residential spaces where young children are at risk.