Standards, Policies & Program Management Flashcards

The NIOSH Lifting Equation (1994 revision) was designed to be applied in which specific work scenario?

Answer: Two-handed, symmetrical lifts of objects with good coupling in mild thermal environments

The 1994 NIOSH Lifting Equation was validated for smooth, two-handed symmetric lifts with good coupling under mild thermal and humidity conditions.

A Recommended Weight Limit (RWL) of 20 kg and an actual load of 30 kg yields a Lifting Index (LI) of 1.5. This value indicates:

Answer: Some workers may be at elevated risk; the task warrants ergonomic redesign

An LI above 1.0 indicates that the task may pose an elevated injury risk for some workers and ergonomic improvements should be considered.

Under OSHA's Recordkeeping Rule (29 CFR 1904), a work-related musculoskeletal disorder requires entry on the OSHA 300 Log when it results in:

Answer: Days away from work, restricted work, job transfer, medical treatment beyond first aid, or loss of consciousness

OSHA's recordkeeping criteria require logging injuries or illnesses that result in days away, restricted work, job transfer, medical treatment beyond first aid, or loss of consciousness.

Which ergonomics program element is considered the most critical 'gateway' for ensuring that hazards get identified and prioritized for control?

Answer: Worksite analysis / job hazard identification

Worksite analysis is the foundational element that identifies and prioritizes ergonomic hazards; without it, training and controls lack direction.

In ergonomics program management, the 'hierarchy of controls' places which type of control as most effective for reducing MSD risk?

Answer: Engineering controls that eliminate or redesign the hazard

Engineering controls are ranked highest in the hierarchy because they physically eliminate or reduce the hazard at its source rather than relying on behavior.

Which standard provides guidance on the ergonomic design of hand tools, specifically addressing grip design, force requirements, and handle dimensions?

Answer: ISO 11228-3

ISO 11228-3 addresses ergonomic recommendations for pushing, pulling, and handling of low loads at high frequency, including hand tool use.

A key principle in developing an ergonomics program 'scope and objectives' document is that goals should be:

Answer: Specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART)

SMART goals provide clear accountability and measurability, enabling the program to demonstrate progress and adjust strategies over time.