Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead Risk Assessor Practice Exam

What is the acceptable recovery rate for dust samples in lead hazard assessments?

1. 50% - 70%

2. 70% - 90%

3. 80% - 120%

4. 100% - 130%

The correct answer is: 80% - 120%

The acceptable recovery rate for dust samples in lead hazard assessments is between 80% and 120%. This range is considered appropriate because it indicates that the sampling and analytical methods used are precise and reliable enough to provide valid results about lead contamination in dust. Values below 80% could indicate a significant loss of lead during the sampling or analysis process, raising concerns about the accuracy of the results. Conversely, recovery rates over 120% could suggest that the sampling or analytical methods might be yielding results that are not reflective of the true lead levels, possibly due to contamination or other interferences. Thus, maintaining a recovery rate within the 80% to 120% range ensures that the findings from the lead hazard assessments are trustworthy and can inform necessary actions or interventions to protect public health.