Safety & Risk Management Flashcards

What is the main purpose of a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA)?

Answer: To identify and control job-related hazards

A Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) is a systematic process used to identify potential hazards associated with specific tasks or job steps. Once identified, the JHA outlines control measures to eliminate or reduce these risks, ensuring the safety of workers. This proactive safety planning is crucial on all construction sites, especially in sensitive healthcare environments where risks can impact both workers and patients.

Which organization sets workplace safety standards in healthcare construction?

Answer: OSHA

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a federal agency responsible for setting and enforcing workplace safety and health standards across various industries, including construction. OSHA regulations are legally binding and aim to ensure safe and healthy working conditions for all employees. Compliance with OSHA standards is critical for protecting workers on healthcare construction sites.

Why is it critical to implement interim life safety measures (ILSM) during construction?

Answer: To ensure safety when systems are disrupted

Interim Life Safety Measures (ILSM) are temporary measures implemented during construction or renovation when existing life safety features (like fire alarms, sprinkler systems, or egress paths) are impaired or taken out of service. ILSMs ensure that an equivalent level of safety is maintained for patients, staff, and visitors until the permanent systems are restored. This is a critical requirement in healthcare facilities to mitigate risks.

Which of the following is a key requirement when working in a confined space?

Answer: Obtain a confined space entry permit

Confined spaces, such as tanks, vaults, or utility tunnels, pose significant hazards due to limited entry/exit, poor ventilation, or hazardous atmospheres. OSHA regulations require a confined space entry permit system to ensure that proper safety procedures, atmospheric monitoring, and rescue plans are in place before workers enter these areas. This is crucial for preventing serious injury or fatality.

What does a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provide?

Answer: Chemical hazard information

A Safety Data Sheet (SDS), formerly known as a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), provides comprehensive information about hazardous chemicals. It details the chemical's properties, potential health hazards, safe handling and storage procedures, emergency first aid, and disposal guidelines. SDSs are essential for worker safety, emergency preparedness, and compliance with hazard communication standards on construction sites.

Which control method is considered most effective in the hierarchy of hazard control?

Answer: Elimination

The hierarchy of hazard controls ranks control methods from most effective to least effective. Elimination, which involves physically removing the hazard, is considered the most effective control because it completely removes the risk. If elimination isn't possible, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and finally Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) are considered in descending order of effectiveness.

What is the primary reason for using infection control barriers on healthcare construction sites?

Answer: To protect patients from contaminants

Infection control barriers, such as temporary walls, dust curtains, and negative air pressure enclosures, are essential on healthcare construction sites. Their primary purpose is to physically separate the construction zone from occupied patient areas, preventing the spread of dust, mold spores, and other airborne contaminants. This protects patients, especially those who are immunocompromised, from potential healthcare-associated infections.

Why is lockout/tagout (LOTO) essential in construction?

Answer: To ensure safe servicing of equipment

Lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures are critical safety measures designed to prevent unexpected startup or release of stored energy from machinery and equipment during maintenance or servicing. By physically locking and tagging energy-isolating devices, LOTO ensures that equipment cannot be accidentally energized. This systematic approach guarantees that equipment remains de-energized and safe for workers to perform their tasks, preventing serious injuries or fatalities.

Which safety consideration is unique to healthcare construction projects?

Answer: Patient exposure to dust and pathogens

Healthcare construction projects are unique because they occur within or adjacent to environments where vulnerable patients are present. Unlike typical construction, the primary concern extends beyond worker safety to include preventing the spread of dust, mold, and airborne pathogens to patients, which could lead to serious infections. This necessitates stringent infection control measures, such as barrier protection and negative air pressure, to protect patient health.