What is the purpose of interim controls in lead management?

The purpose of interim controls in lead management is to temporarily reduce human exposures to lead hazards. Interim controls involve implementing measures that can be put in place quickly to limit access to lead sources, minimize dust generation, and protect residents—especially young children who are more vulnerable to lead exposure. These controls can include methods such as cleaning up lead dust, painting over lead-based paint, and installing barriers to restrict access to contaminated areas.

This approach is particularly useful in situations where complete remediation or removal of lead sources cannot be achieved immediately due to various constraints, such as financial limitations or the need for extensive renovations. The interim controls serve as a stop-gap measure while more permanent solutions are planned and executed, ensuring continued safety for occupants, particularly in high-risk environments.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the role of interim controls. Complete removal of lead sources is not characteristic of interim controls, as that represents a more permanent solution. Conducting long-term monitoring alone does not address immediate exposures and is more of a follow-up strategy. Increasing lead levels safely contradicts the objective of minimizing hazards, as the goal of any lead management approach is to reduce exposure to lead.