Ergonomics, Workplace Safety, and Injury Prevention Flashcards

Which OSHA standard requires employers to maintain records of work-related injuries and illnesses?

Answer: OSHA 29 CFR Part 1904 (Injury and Illness Recording and Reporting)

OSHA 29 CFR Part 1904 requires covered employers to record and report work-related injuries and illnesses on OSHA 300/301/300A forms.

What is a 'near-miss' incident in workplace safety?

Answer: An unplanned event that did not result in injury but had the potential to do so

A near-miss is an unplanned event with injury potential that did not result in harm; analyzing near-misses helps prevent future injuries.

Which hierarchy of controls is considered the most effective method to eliminate ergonomic hazards?

Answer: Engineering controls (tool redesign, workstation modification)

Engineering controls are highest in the hierarchy of controls because they eliminate or redesign the hazard at the source rather than relying on human behavior.

What is 'contact stress' as an ergonomic risk factor?

Answer: Concentrated pressure on body tissue from hard surfaces or edges during work tasks

Contact stress occurs when hard surfaces or edges press on soft tissue (tendons, nerves, blood vessels), impairing circulation and increasing injury risk.

Which occupational health screening tool is commonly used to identify early symptoms of work-related musculoskeletal disorders?

Answer: Symptom survey or body discomfort map

Symptom surveys and body discomfort maps identify early musculoskeletal symptoms in worker populations to prioritize ergonomic interventions before injuries become disabling.

Under OSHA's General Duty Clause, employers are required to:

Answer: Provide a workplace free from recognized hazards likely to cause death or serious physical harm

OSHA's General Duty Clause (Section 5(a)(1)) requires employers to provide a workplace free from serious recognized hazards, including ergonomic hazards.