CHST Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) Prevention 4

Question 1

Since OSHA has no specific ergonomics standard, under what authority can it cite employers for serious ergonomic hazards?

Accepted Answer

The General Duty Clause, Section 5(a)(1) of the OSH Act

Answer

OSHA uses the General Duty Clause for recognized hazards likely to cause serious harm when no specific standard applies.

Question 2

What happened to the OSHA ergonomics program standard issued in November 2000?

Accepted Answer

Congress repealed it in 2001 under the Congressional Review Act

Answer

Congress overturned the ergonomics standard in March 2001 using the Congressional Review Act.

Question 3

Which assessment tool is designed to quickly score upper-limb posture, force, and repetition for tasks like overhead drilling?

Accepted Answer

RULA (Rapid Upper Limb Assessment)

Answer

RULA scores neck, trunk, and upper-limb posture together with muscle use and force to rank upper-extremity MSD risk.

Question 4

What is the NIOSH position on using back belts to prevent lifting injuries?

Accepted Answer

There is not enough scientific evidence to recommend them as an injury-prevention measure

Answer

NIOSH found insufficient evidence that back belts reduce back injuries and does not recommend them as a control.

Question 5

Which leading indicator best signals an emerging MSD problem before injuries occur?

Accepted Answer

Rising worker reports of discomfort in symptom surveys

Answer

Early reports of discomfort let you step in before a recordable injury happens, which makes them a leading indicator.

CHST - Construction Health and Safety Technician Practice Test