CSS - Certified Safety Supervisor Personal Protective Equipment and Industrial Hygiene Questions and Answers Flashcards

What is the OSHA action level for occupational noise exposure under 29 CFR 1910.95?

Answer: 85 dBA 8-hr TWA

The OSHA action level for noise is 85 dBA as an 8-hour TWA, which triggers audiometric testing and hearing conservation program requirements.

Which air-purifying respirator cartridge color coding indicates protection against organic vapors per NIOSH/ANSI standards?

Answer: Black

Black cartridges denote organic vapor protection in the NIOSH/ANSI K13.1 color-coding system for respirator cartridges.

The Hierarchy of Controls places PPE at which position?

Answer: Last (least effective)

PPE is the last line of defense in the Hierarchy of Controls because it does not eliminate the hazard but only protects the worker from exposure.

A Safety Supervisor notices workers are frequently removing their respirators in a contaminated area because they are uncomfortable. What is the best corrective action?

Answer: Conduct fit testing and explore less restrictive respirator options

Fit testing ensures proper seal and comfort; switching to a better-fitting respirator type improves compliance while maintaining protection.

Which industrial hygiene sampling method collects contaminant data over an entire work shift to calculate a TWA?

Answer: Passive dosimetry

Passive dosimeters (e.g., badge samplers) collect contaminants continuously throughout the work shift, enabling accurate TWA calculation.

Which OSHA standard requires employers to certify that a PPE hazard assessment has been performed?

Answer: 29 CFR 1910.132

29 CFR 1910.132(d) requires employers to assess the workplace for PPE hazards and certify the assessment in writing.