What happens if one or more environmental samples fail to meet the clearance standards?

• A. For a failed dust wipe sample, all components represented by the failed sample shall be re-cleaned.
• B. Additional clearance examinations must be performed until the clearance standards are met.
• C. The property owner is notified that clearance is achieved.
• D. Ignore and finish.

Answer: (B)

When environmental samples do not meet the clearance standards, the next step is to continue the verification process until all results pass. This means performing additional clearance examinations, which typically involves more cleaning in the areas indicated by the failed samples, collecting new samples, and re-testing until every result falls within the allowable limits. The purpose is to prove that residual lead contamination has been reduced to acceptable levels across all measured areas, not just some spots.

Re-cleaning is part of the corrective action, but it alone doesn’t certify safety—you must show through retesting that the standards are now met. It would be inappropriate to claim clearance if any sample still fails, and it would also be improper to ignore the failure or prematurely notify the owner that clearance is achieved.