What common renovations may disturb lead-based paint?

The correct response highlights key activities likely to disturb lead-based paint, which can pose significant health risks through the release of lead dust or chips. Sanding, scraping, or cutting surfaces painted with lead paint directly disturb the paint layer, potentially releasing harmful lead particles into the environment.

Understanding the context of this choice emphasizes the risk of exposure during renovation activities that physically interact with surfaces coated with lead-based paint. This is particularly crucial when considering safety protocols in homes built before 1978, when lead-based paints were commonly used.

The other options do not involve the direct disturbance of lead paint. Painting walls with lead-free paint is a proactive measure to eliminate lead hazards but does not disturb existing lead paint. Installing new windows without removing old paint could present risks if the old paint is not adequately masked or if particles are inadvertently dislodged, but this option is less direct in its disturbance of the lead paint itself. Replacing flooring with new materials typically does not interact with wall surfaces where lead paint may be present, thereby reducing the likelihood of exposure to lead during that specific renovation task.

Identifying the most hazardous activities is crucial for ensuring safety during renovations in areas where lead paint is a concern.