What is the minimum PPE an assessor should wear to perform inspection/risk assessment in a pre-1978 home?

What is the minimum PPE an assessor should wear to perform inspection/risk assessment in a pre-1978 home?

• A. Full hazmat suit
• B. Booties and rubber gloves
• C. Safety goggles and gloves
• D. Respirator and gloves

Answer: (B)

In a pre-1978 home, the right approach for an inspection or risk assessment is to use the lightest level of PPE that still prevents contamination and skin contact, because you’re not disturbing painted surfaces in this scenario. The minimum is disposable shoe covers to keep dust from being tracked around and rubber gloves to protect hands from any dust or debris you might touch. This level reduces cross-contamination without adding unnecessary gear. More protective equipment would be needed only if you were disturbing painted surfaces or generating dust—such as sampling, scraping, or sanding—where a respirator, coveralls, or a full hazmat suit might become appropriate. Safety glasses can be wise if there's a risk of dust getting into your eyes, but for a routine inspection the essential protection remains gloves and boot covers.

In a pre-1978 home, the right approach for an inspection or risk assessment is to use the lightest level of PPE that still prevents contamination and skin contact, because you’re not disturbing painted surfaces in this scenario. The minimum is disposable shoe covers to keep dust from being tracked around and rubber gloves to protect hands from any dust or debris you might touch. This level reduces cross-contamination without adding unnecessary gear.

More protective equipment would be needed only if you were disturbing painted surfaces or generating dust—such as sampling, scraping, or sanding—where a respirator, coveralls, or a full hazmat suit might become appropriate. Safety glasses can be wise if there's a risk of dust getting into your eyes, but for a routine inspection the essential protection remains gloves and boot covers.