How many dust wipe samples should be taken for childcare facilities in multi-family complexes?

Taking dust wipe samples in childcare facilities within multi-family complexes is essential for assessing lead contamination risks. The correct approach is to collect samples from multiple locations to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of potential lead exposure.

The answer specifying two floors, one window sill, and one window trough is correct because it provides a balanced assessment of lead dust in high-use areas (floors) where children may spend significant time and come into contact with lead-contaminated dust or dirt. The inclusion of a window sill is particularly important, as window sills can accumulate dust that may have lead from sources like deteriorating paint. Additionally, the window trough is an area where dust can also collect, and it is critical to assess for lead presence in these more confined spaces.

In contrast, the other choices do not provide the optimal combination of sampling locations for evaluating lead hazards in a childcare setting. For instance, collecting samples from just one floor and one window sill may not adequately reflect the overall lead risk present throughout the facility. Similarly, excessively high sampling like five floors or multiple window samples could lead to unnecessary complexity and cost without significantly enhancing the assessment's efficiency or effectiveness. The goal is to balance thorough sampling with reasonable coverage for accurate risk assessment.