Risk Management & Mitigation Flashcards
7 cards from real ASCS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Risk Management & Mitigation flashcards as text
During an HVAC risk assessment, the technician identifies a potential hazard but determines the probability of harm is extremely low and the severity would be minor. The BEST response is to:
Answer: Document the hazard, apply the lowest-level control, and monitor
Even low-risk hazards must be documented and controlled at an appropriate level, with ongoing monitoring to detect any change in risk level.
Which type of PPE is considered the LAST line of defense in the hierarchy of controls?
Answer: Personal protective equipment (PPE)
PPE is the last resort in the hierarchy because it protects only the individual worker and does not reduce the hazard at its source.
When cleaning ducts in a building that had a fire, what unique risk must the team assess BEFORE beginning work?
Answer: Presence of soot, carbon monoxide residue, and potentially compromised structural integrity of ductwork
Post-fire ductwork may contain toxic soot, carcinogenic particles, CO residue, and structurally weakened components that create unique health and safety hazards.
An ASCS technician is asked to clean an HVAC system serving a space where an infectious disease outbreak occurred. Which risk control measure is MOST appropriate for personnel protection?
Answer: Supplied-air respirator (SAR) or PAPR with full-face shield and disposable coveralls
Infectious disease environments require maximum respiratory protection (PAPR or SAR) and full-body barrier protection to prevent pathogen exposure.
What is the primary purpose of air monitoring during HVAC cleaning operations?
Answer: To ensure that contaminants are not migrating beyond the containment zone into occupied areas
Air monitoring verifies that containment controls are effective and that occupants and adjacent areas are not being exposed to released contaminants.
Under OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom), which document must be readily accessible to workers who may be exposed to chemical hazards during HVAC cleaning?
Answer: Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
OSHA HazCom (29 CFR 1910.1200) requires that SDS for all hazardous chemicals used or encountered be immediately accessible to exposed workers.
Which factor would INCREASE the overall risk rating for an HVAC cleaning project when entered into a risk matrix?
Answer: Presence of vulnerable occupants (elderly, immunocompromised) adjacent to the work area
Vulnerable occupants increase the severity rating on the risk matrix because the potential consequences of any exposure incident are significantly greater.