Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) Home Inspection Practice Exam

The accidental introduction of a termiticide into which of the following can lead to air contamination?

1. A) Ducts

2. B) DWV pipes

3. C) Insulation

4. D) Walls

The correct answer is: A) Ducts

The introduction of a termiticide into ducts can lead to air contamination because ducts are part of a building's HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system. If a termiticide is accidentally introduced into the ducts, it can be distributed throughout the indoor airspace when the HVAC system operates. This can pose health risks to the occupants due to inhalation of the chemical. In contrast, while DWV (Drain, Waste, and Vent) pipes are part of a plumbing system and may contain various liquids, they are generally designed to carry waste and not air. Introduction of termiticides into these pipes typically has less direct impact on air contamination. Insulation and walls may also not facilitate the same level of air movement. Chemicals introduced within these areas are less likely to disperse throughout the living space as rapidly or effectively as they would through ducts.