Exposure to lead is measured by the concentration of lead in which medium?

Exposure to lead is measured by the concentration of lead in which medium?

• A. Air
• B. Paint
• C. Water
• D. Soil

Answer: (B)

Lead exposure in homes is driven by the amount of lead in painted surfaces because lead-based paint is the main source of lead dust and chips that people can ingest or inhale. Testing the paint’s lead concentration shows how much lead could be released into the indoor environment as surfaces wear, flake, or are disturbed during renovations. If paint tests show high lead levels, the surfaces are a hazard and require remediation or protective controls. While lead can also be present in air, water, or soil, the paint itself is the direct source of potential exposure indoors, making its lead concentration the best indicator of exposure risk in this context.

Lead exposure in homes is driven by the amount of lead in painted surfaces because lead-based paint is the main source of lead dust and chips that people can ingest or inhale. Testing the paint’s lead concentration shows how much lead could be released into the indoor environment as surfaces wear, flake, or are disturbed during renovations. If paint tests show high lead levels, the surfaces are a hazard and require remediation or protective controls. While lead can also be present in air, water, or soil, the paint itself is the direct source of potential exposure indoors, making its lead concentration the best indicator of exposure risk in this context.