CIEE Biomechanics & Musculoskeletal Disorder Mechanisms

Question 1

What term best describes the scientific study of forces and their effects on the human musculoskeletal system during work tasks?

Accepted Answer

Biomechanics

Answer

Kinesiology

Answer

Anthropometry

Answer

Physiology

Question 2

Which region of the spine is most frequently injured in work-related musculoskeletal disorders?

Accepted Answer

Lumbar

Answer

Cervical

Answer

Thoracic

Answer

Sacral

Question 3

In biomechanics, what is the 'moment arm' (lever arm)?

Accepted Answer

The perpendicular distance from the axis of rotation to the line of force action

Answer

The weight of the load being lifted

Answer

The speed at which a joint moves through range of motion

Answer

The total force applied by a contracting muscle

Question 4

What is the NIOSH recommended action limit for compressive force at the L5/S1 lumbar joint?

Accepted Answer

3,400 N

Answer

1,000 N

Answer

6,800 N

Answer

500 N

Question 5

Which soft tissue is most prone to cumulative damage from repetitive loading due to its relatively poor blood supply?

Accepted Answer

Tendon

Answer

Skeletal muscle

Answer

Cortical bone

Answer

Epidermis

Question 6

What does the term 'torque' mean in ergonomic biomechanical analysis?

Accepted Answer

The rotational force produced by a moment arm and applied force

Answer

The speed of muscle contraction during a task

Answer

The compressive force transmitted through a vertebral disc

Answer

The friction coefficient between a tool handle and the hand

Question 7

During a lifting task, increasing the horizontal distance of the load from the body primarily increases which biomechanical factor at the lumbar spine?

Accepted Answer

Lumbar compressive and shear forces

Answer

Intra-abdominal pressure

Answer

Grip force required to hold the object

Answer

Metabolic heart rate demand