CES Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CES facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the ergonomic benefit of anti-fatigue mats for workers who stand for prolonged periods? → They reduce lower limb fatigue by promoting subtle weight-shifting micro-movements
2. Which ANSI standard specifically addresses ergonomics for video display terminal (VDT) workstations? → ANSI/HFES 100
3. What factor is considered when assessing a workstation? → Chair support and monitor position
4. What does 'moment arm' refer to in biomechanics? → The perpendicular distance from a joint to the line of force
5. An ergonomics cost-benefit analysis should include which category of benefits? → Reduced injury costs, productivity gains, and quality improvements
6. Wearable inertial measurement units (IMUs) in ergonomic assessments primarily measure: → Segment orientation and movement kinematics
7. How can job rotation reduce ergonomic risk? → Prevents muscle overuse
8. The neutral wrist position is best described as: → Straight alignment with the forearm
9. What type of software is used to calculate the Recommended Weight Limit (RWL) and Lifting Index (LI) automatically from task measurements? → NIOSH Lifting Equation calculator (e.g., NLE-Calc, ErgoPlus)
10. What ergonomic control best reduces forceful pinching required for small component assembly? → Redesigning components with larger gripping surfaces or using fixtures to hold parts
11. What does the term 'recovery time' mean in the context of work-rest cycles for ergonomic task design? → Time allowed for muscles to recover between exertions to prevent fatigue accumulation
12. What role does early intervention play in risk management? → Enables quick response to prevent worsening
13. What does the ISO 9241 standard series primarily address? → Ergonomics of human-system interaction including displays and input devices
14. What is a common ergonomic injury? → Carpal tunnel syndrome
15. When performing a job hazard analysis (JHA) for ergonomic purposes, which step comes first? → Observe and document all tasks performed in the job
16. Which muscle group is primarily responsible for maintaining upright posture of the spine? → Erector spinae
17. What seat pan depth is recommended to avoid pressure on the back of the knees in a properly adjusted office chair? → 2-3 inches clearance between the front edge of the seat and the back of the knees
18. What is the recommended maximum weight for one-person carrying tasks over distances greater than 10 feet? → Approximately 50 lbs (23 kg) under optimal conditions per NIOSH guidance
19. What does the 20-20-20 rule recommend for computer workers? → Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain
20. Which tool is commonly used in ergonomic analysis? → RULA tool
21. What does the acronym WMSD stand for in occupational ergonomics? → Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorder
22. Why is a document holder recommended for workers who reference paper documents while typing? → It positions documents near the monitor to reduce repetitive head turning and neck strain
23. Why is data tracking useful in injury prevention? → To identify risk patterns and take action
24. What is the primary ergonomic benefit of a document holder placed next to a monitor? → Minimizes neck rotation and repetitive head movement
25. Which of the following helps manage ergonomic risk? → Monitoring and adjusting work processes
26. In the context of environmental ergonomics, what does the term 'luminance ratio' refer to? → The difference in brightness between a task and its immediate surround
27. What does the anthropometric concept of 'design for the 5th to 95th percentile' mean in ergonomics? → Designing workstations to accommodate 90% of the target population
28. What is the recommended monitor height for a seated computer user to minimize neck strain? → Top of the screen at or slightly below eye level
29. Which spinal region is most commonly affected by work-related musculoskeletal disorders in office workers? → Lumbar
30. What should be included in an ergonomic training program? → Ergonomic risks and safe practices