Free CRST Occupational Health and Safety Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary legislation governing Occupational Health and Safety in Canada?
- The Occupational Health and Safety Act (Correct answer)
- The Canadian Labor Code
- The Workplace Safety and Insurance Act
- The Employment Standards Act
Correct answer: The Occupational Health and Safety Act
In Canada, Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) is primarily governed by provincial and territorial legislation, with the overarching federal framework being the Canada Labour Code for federally regulated workplaces. However, for most workplaces, the specific 'Occupational Health and Safety Act' (or similar title) of their respective province or territory is the primary legislation. This act outlines the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees regarding workplace safety.
Question 2: What role does a Safety Technician play in a workplace’s OHS program?
- They are responsible for conducting legal proceedings related to workplace safety.
- They develop and implement safety policies and procedures.
- They perform routine safety inspections and provide recommendations for improvements. (Correct answer)
- They manage employee compensation claims related to work injuries.
Correct answer: They perform routine safety inspections and provide recommendations for improvements.
A Safety Technician plays a vital, hands-on role in a workplace's OHS program by actively monitoring safety conditions. Their responsibilities typically include conducting routine inspections to identify potential hazards, ensuring compliance with safety procedures, and providing practical recommendations for improvements. They act as a key support in maintaining a safe working environment and assisting with the implementation of safety initiatives.
Question 3: Which of the following is a key element of a workplace health and safety program?
- Performance reviews
- Safety training and education (Correct answer)
- Annual financial audits
- Employee social activities
Correct answer: Safety training and education
Safety training and education are fundamental elements of any effective workplace health and safety program. They equip employees with the necessary knowledge and skills to identify hazards, understand safe work procedures, and respond appropriately to emergencies. Continuous training fosters a safety-conscious culture and ensures that all personnel are aware of their roles and responsibilities in maintaining a safe workplace.
Question 4: How should a safety hazard be addressed according to the hierarchy of controls?
- By implementing personal protective equipment (PPE) as the first option
- By conducting regular inspections to identify hazards
- By increasing the frequency of safety audits
- By eliminating the hazard, substituting safer materials, or implementing engineering controls (Correct answer)
Correct answer: By eliminating the hazard, substituting safer materials, or implementing engineering controls
The hierarchy of controls dictates that hazards should be addressed starting with the most effective methods. This involves first attempting to eliminate the hazard entirely, then substituting it with a safer alternative, or implementing engineering controls to isolate people from the hazard. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is considered the least effective control and should only be used as a last resort or in conjunction with higher-level controls.
Question 5: What is the purpose of a “Job Hazard Analysis” (JHA)?
- To evaluate employee performance
- To calculate the cost of safety measures
- To track attendance and punctuality
- To identify and assess hazards associated with specific job tasks (Correct answer)
Correct answer: To identify and assess hazards associated with specific job tasks
A Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) is a systematic process used to identify and assess hazards associated with specific job tasks. It involves breaking down a job into individual steps, identifying potential hazards at each step, and determining appropriate control measures. The JHA helps to proactively mitigate risks and develop safe work procedures before incidents occur.
What is the primary legislation governing Occupational Health and Safety in Canada?