Qu.14

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What is the purpose of an inspection? Of a risk assessment? Must I have both or either done before contracting for abatement work?

The purpose of an inspection is to determine, and then report on, the existence of lead-based paint through a surface-by-surface investigation of a residential dwelling or child-occupied facility---in other words---to identify the presence of lead in paint. An inspection does not include taking dust or soil samples.

The purpose of a risk assessment is to determine the existence, nature, severity, and location of lead-based paint hazards in a residential dwelling or a child-occupied facility through an on-site investigation. A risk assessment incorporates several steps, namely:

the gathering of information regarding the age and history of the unit and occupancy by children,
a visual inspection,
sampling for lead in paint, dust and soil, and
the provision of a report explaining the results of the investigation.

There is no requirement to conduct an inspection before a risk assessment or that either of these activities be conducted before abatement work is done. The rule merely requires that if these activities are conducted, then they must be conducted by the appropriately trained and certified individuals according to the work practice standards outlined in the rule.