Research Methods & Evidence-Based Practice Flashcards
7 cards from real MEOC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Research Methods & Evidence-Based Practice flashcards as text
When interpreting a geotechnical soil report before excavating, which soil classification indicates the highest risk of trench wall collapse?
Answer: Type C — granular or submerged soil
Type C soil is the least stable classification and requires the most protective measures due to its granular, saturated, or otherwise unstable nature.
An operator reviews incident reports from the past three years showing repeated rollovers on slopes steeper than 25°. What evidence-based action should follow?
Answer: Add a standing order prohibiting excavation on slopes exceeding 25°
Evidence from incident trends should directly inform operational policy changes, such as slope angle restrictions, to prevent recurrence.
Which document is the most authoritative primary source for a mini excavator's rated operating capacity?
Answer: The OEM operator's manual and load chart
The OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) operator's manual contains the authoritative, model-specific rated operating capacities.
A site supervisor wants to compare ground bearing pressure limits to the excavator's machine weight. Which reference document provides the ground bearing pressure data for the equipment?
Answer: Excavator OEM specifications sheet
OEM specification sheets list ground bearing pressure data for each machine model, enabling comparison with site soil capacity.
During a post-incident review, an operator finds that the accident occurred because the swing radius was not communicated to ground workers. Which evidence-based corrective measure is most appropriate?
Answer: Implement a formal swing radius exclusion zone briefing for every job
Evidence from incident analysis shows communication failures are preventable with structured pre-task briefings on swing exclusion zones.
An operator consults utility locating records before digging. The records are three years old. What is the evidence-based best practice?
Answer: Order a new utility locate since records may be outdated
Best practice and most state laws require a current utility locate before excavation because underground infrastructure changes over time.
Which type of data is LEAST useful when developing evidence-based maintenance intervals for a mini excavator's hydraulic system?
Answer: An operator's guess based on machine appearance
Anecdotal visual assessments are not evidence-based; maintenance intervals should rely on documented data, lab results, and OEM guidelines.