HCPH Sanitarian Practice Test

The Clean Air Act primarily addresses air pollution control, focusing on regulating pollutants in the atmosphere to protect public health and the environment. Established in 1963 and amended several times, its main objective is to ensure that air quality meets established standards, thereby reducing harmful emissions from various sources such as industries, vehicles, and other contributors to air pollution.

The Act empowers the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to set and enforce air quality standards, implement regulations for emission sources, and promote innovative air pollution control technologies. It plays a crucial role in mitigating the effects of air pollution, such as respiratory diseases and environmental damage.

In contrast, the other options pertain to different areas of environmental and public health regulation. Water quality is governed by laws and regulations like the Clean Water Act, food safety is managed under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, and pesticide regulation falls under the purview of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. Each of these areas has its specific legislation and focus, distinct from the air quality issues addressed by the Clean Air Act.