Nutrition & Dietary Needs Flashcards

Food safety is critical at remote oilfield camps. What is the maximum time cooked food should be left in the 'danger zone' (40°F–140°F) before it is considered unsafe?

Answer: 2 hours

The USDA food safety guideline states that perishable food should not remain in the temperature danger zone (40°F–140°F) for more than 2 hours.

Which dietary strategy helps petroleum workers prevent excessive weight gain associated with sedentary periods between physically intense field rotations?

Answer: Adjusting caloric intake to match activity level during off-rotation periods

Caloric needs drop significantly during rest rotations, so matching food intake to activity level prevents surplus calories from being stored as fat.

Alcohol consumption is particularly hazardous for petroleum workers on-site because it:

Answer: Impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time creating serious safety risks

Alcohol is a CNS depressant that impairs cognitive function and motor control, creating serious accident risk in an environment with heavy machinery and hazardous materials.

A petroleum worker with type 2 diabetes needs to manage blood sugar during long field shifts. Which strategy is most appropriate?

Answer: Consume consistent, low-glycemic meals and snacks at regular intervals

Regular, low-glycemic meals stabilize blood glucose throughout the shift, preventing dangerous hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia in workers with type 2 diabetes.

Which of the following best describes the role of antioxidants in the diet of petroleum workers exposed to chemicals and UV radiation?

Answer: They neutralize free radicals that damage cells from chemical and sun exposure

Antioxidants such as vitamins C and E and beta-carotene neutralize free radicals generated by chemical exposure, UV radiation, and physical stress, reducing long-term cellular damage.

When working in cold environments on an offshore rig, a petroleum worker's caloric needs will generally:

Answer: Increase because the body burns more energy to maintain core temperature

Cold exposure increases thermogenic energy expenditure as the body works to maintain its core temperature of 98.6°F, raising total daily caloric needs.

Which of the following dietary practices is most effective for supporting mental alertness and decision-making during critical tasks on a petroleum site?

Answer: Maintaining steady blood glucose through balanced meals and avoiding long fasting periods

The brain relies on a steady supply of glucose; balanced meals that prevent blood sugar dips maintain optimal cognitive function and decision-making capacity.