Which agency establishes the lead hazard standards and protocols?

The agency responsible for establishing lead hazard standards and protocols is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA sets regulations aimed at protecting human health and the environment from the dangers posed by lead exposure. They have created guidelines that include lead hazard standards for homes, schools, and daycare facilities, particularly in relation to lead-based paint and lead in dust and soil.

The EPA's authority provides a framework for lead abatement practices, ensuring that procedures are in place to effectively manage and mitigate lead hazards. This includes setting permissible levels of lead exposure, as well as defining protocols for lead testing, risk assessment, and abatement activities that ensure public safety.

In contrast, while the other agencies mentioned play significant roles in public health and workplace safety, they do not specifically establish lead hazard standards in the same comprehensive manner as the EPA. OSHA focuses primarily on occupational safety regulations, the CDC addresses public health concerns and provides recommendations but does not set regulatory standards, and the Department of Health Services may offer support and education on lead poisoning but does not set the federal standards like the EPA does.