When assessing suspect lead-based paint areas, what must a lead risk assessor be able to perform?

The correct choice is focused on the lead risk assessor's responsibilities during the assessment of areas suspected to contain lead-based paint. A lead risk assessor is trained to conduct both visual assessments and material sampling to accurately determine the presence and extent of lead hazards.

The visual assessment allows the assessor to identify any deteriorating paint or other conditions that may pose a lead risk. This includes looking for chipping, peeling, or otherwise compromised paint surfaces, as well as evaluating the condition of surfaces that could be sources of lead dust. Sampling, which involves collecting paint samples or dust wipes, is crucial in confirming the presence of lead and providing quantitative data on lead levels. Together, these two components form a comprehensive assessment method that is necessary to determine the safety of the environment and to inform further actions, such as remediation or abatement, if necessary.

In contrast, some other options would not cover the breadth of responsibilities required in a lead risk assessment. For instance, focusing solely on a visual assessment without sampling would not provide the full picture of lead presence. Additionally, limiting the assessment to only exterior inspections ignores potential hazards that could exist inside buildings. Therefore, the emphasis on conducting both visual evaluations and sample testing is critical in ensuring a thorough and accurate risk assessment for lead