NCIDQ Interior Design Professional Exam (IDPX) Practice Exam

The selection of asbestos, lead, PCBs, radon, and vermiculite as common hazardous materials found in existing buildings is accurate due to the recognized presence and potential harm associated with these substances.

Asbestos was widely used in construction for its fire-resistant properties until it was linked to severe health issues, such as lung cancer and asbestosis, when fibers become airborne and are inhaled. Lead, frequently found in older paints and plumbing, poses serious health risks, especially to children, such as developmental issues and neurological damage.

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which were commonly used in electrical equipment and building materials prior to being banned due to their environmental and health effects, have also been a concern in older buildings. Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can accumulate in buildings, especially in basements, and is a leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Lastly, vermiculite, particularly that sourced from Libby, Montana, may contain asbestos and thus presents a hazard when disturbed.

The other options contain combinations of pertinent materials but either omit significant hazards (like PCBs) or include less common concerns (such as bacterial contamination or general dust) that do not carry the same level