Basic Safety Flashcards

What does OSHA's General Duty Clause (Section 5(a)(1)) require of employers?

Answer: Employers must provide a workplace free from recognized hazards likely to cause death or serious harm

The General Duty Clause requires employers to furnish a place of employment free from recognized hazards causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm.

What action must be taken if a worker observes an unsafe condition during tower work?

Answer: Stop work immediately and notify the competent person to address the hazard

Stop Work Authority empowers every worker to halt operations when an unsafe condition is identified.

Why is proper hydration critical for tower climbers?

Answer: Dehydration impairs cognitive function and physical performance, increasing the risk of falls and heat-related illness

Dehydration causes fatigue, impaired judgment, reduced grip strength, and delayed reaction time, all dramatically increasing fall risk.

What must workers verify about their personal fall arrest system before each climb?

Answer: That all components are properly connected, undamaged, and the harness fits snugly with all straps secured

Pre-use inspection catches damage, wear, or improper configuration that could cause the system to fail.

What is the hierarchy of controls as it applies to tower work safety?

Answer: Elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE — in order of most to least effective

The hierarchy prioritizes eliminating hazards entirely over relying on worker behavior or protective equipment.

What is a near-miss and why must it be reported in tower work?

Answer: An event that could have caused injury or damage but did not, and reporting helps prevent future incidents

Near-misses are warnings that a hazard exists. Reporting and investigating them identifies system failures before they result in injuries.