Workplace Safety and Health Flashcards

What does the 'hierarchy of controls' prioritize as the most effective method to reduce workplace hazards?

Answer: Elimination of the hazard

Elimination — removing the hazard entirely — is the most effective control because it permanently ends the risk.

Under OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard, what must a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) include?

Answer: First-aid measures and handling procedures

SDS documents are required to include 16 sections covering hazards, handling, first-aid, and emergency response for chemicals.

An employer notices employees are developing repetitive strain injuries. Which control would BEST address this ergonomic hazard?

Answer: Redesigning workstations to reduce repetitive motion

Redesigning the workstation is an engineering control that addresses the root cause of the ergonomic hazard.

What is the OSHA permissible noise exposure limit for an 8-hour workday?

Answer: 90 dB(A)

OSHA's PEL for noise is 90 dB(A) as an 8-hour time-weighted average under 29 CFR 1910.95.

Which type of workplace violence involves violence directed at employees by customers or clients?

Answer: Type II (Customer/client)

Type II workplace violence involves clients, patients, customers, or members of the public who become violent toward employees.

What is a 'near miss' in workplace safety terminology?

Answer: An incident that could have caused injury but did not

A near miss is an unplanned event that did not result in injury but had the potential to do so, and should always be reported.

Under the General Duty Clause of the OSH Act, employers are required to provide a workplace free from:

Answer: Recognized hazards that are causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm

Section 5(a)(1) of the OSH Act requires employers to address recognized hazards likely to cause death or serious harm, even without a specific standard.