NOCTI Workplace Safety Procedures 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the first thing you should do if you discover a workplace fire?
- Try to put it out yourself regardless of size
- Sound the fire alarm and alert others in the area (Correct answer)
- Open all windows for ventilation
- Continue working and assume someone else will handle it
Correct answer: Sound the fire alarm and alert others in the area
The first action upon discovering a fire is to sound the fire alarm and alert others, ensuring everyone can evacuate safely.
The standard fire response follows the RACE protocol: Rescue (anyone in immediate danger), Alarm (activate alarm and call 911), Contain (close doors), and Evacuate (leave via nearest safe exit). Only attempt to fight a small, contained fire if trained. The PASS technique for extinguishers: Pull pin, Aim at base, Squeeze handle, Sweep side to side.
Question 2: What does the term 'ergonomics' mean in workplace safety?
- The study of electrical systems in the workplace
- The science of designing work tasks and environments to fit the worker's physical capabilities (Correct answer)
- A type of protective equipment
- The study of workplace chemicals
Correct answer: The science of designing work tasks and environments to fit the worker's physical capabilities
Ergonomics is the science of designing workstations, tools, tasks, and environments to fit the physical capabilities and limitations of workers.
Key ergonomic principles include neutral posture, reducing repetitive motions, minimizing forceful exertions, eliminating awkward positions, and reducing vibration exposure. Musculoskeletal disorders account for approximately one-third of all workplace injuries. Good ergonomics improves productivity and reduces workers' compensation costs.
Question 3: What information is found on a Safety Data Sheet (SDS)?
- Only the manufacturer's contact information
- Comprehensive hazard information, safe handling procedures, emergency measures, and physical properties (Correct answer)
- Just the chemical name and purchase price
- Employee training records
Correct answer: Comprehensive hazard information, safe handling procedures, emergency measures, and physical properties
An SDS contains comprehensive safety information about a chemical product in a standardized 16-section format.
The 16 sections cover identification, hazard identification with GHS pictograms, composition, first-aid measures, fire-fighting measures, accidental release measures, handling and storage, exposure controls/PPE, physical properties, stability and reactivity, toxicological information, ecological information, disposal, transport, regulatory information, and other information. Workers have the right to access SDSs at any time.
Question 4: What is the proper way to lift heavy objects to prevent back injuries?
- Bend at the waist and use your back muscles
- Bend your knees, keep the load close to your body, and lift using your leg muscles (Correct answer)
- Twist your body while lifting to distribute the weight
- Always lift from one side to keep balance
Correct answer: Bend your knees, keep the load close to your body, and lift using your leg muscles
Safe lifting requires bending at the knees, keeping the load close to your body, and using your leg muscles to lift.
Safe technique: stand close with feet shoulder-width apart, bend at the knees, grip firmly, keep load close, tighten core muscles, lift with legs, keep head up, never twist, and set down the same way. The NIOSH Lifting Equation recommends a maximum of 51 pounds under ideal conditions. Use mechanical aids when loads exceed safe limits.
Question 5: What is the purpose of a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA)?
- To determine which employees are most at risk of being fired
- To systematically identify potential hazards in specific job tasks and determine preventive measures (Correct answer)
- To calculate employee overtime hours
- To create a list of job openings
Correct answer: To systematically identify potential hazards in specific job tasks and determine preventive measures
A JHA systematically examines each step of a specific job task to identify potential hazards and determine the best ways to reduce or eliminate those risks.
The process: select the job to analyze, break it into sequential steps, identify hazards at each step, determine preventive measures following the hierarchy of controls, and communicate findings to all workers. JHAs should be reviewed when accidents occur, equipment changes, or new hazards are identified.
Question 6: What should you do if you witness a coworker suffering an electrical shock?
- Grab them and pull them away immediately
- Disconnect the power source first, then call for emergency help (Correct answer)
- Pour water on them to cool the burn
- Wait until the shock stops before responding
Correct answer: Disconnect the power source first, then call for emergency help
Never touch someone in contact with electricity. First disconnect the power source, then call 911 and begin first aid.
Do NOT touch the person if still in contact with the source. Disconnect power if safely possible. If not, use a dry non-conductive object to separate the victim. Call 911 immediately. Once clear, check breathing and pulse and be prepared for CPR, as electrical shock frequently causes cardiac arrest. Do not move the victim unless there is immediate danger.
NOCTI Workplace Safety Procedures 2
What is the first thing you should do if you discover a workplace fire?