Hazards & Exposures Flashcards
7 cards from real CIH practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Hazards & Exposures flashcards as text
A worker is exposed to benzene at 0.4 ppm TWA over an 8-hour shift. The OSHA PEL for benzene is 1 ppm. Which statement best describes this situation?
Answer: The exposure is in compliance but the OSHA Action Level of 0.5 ppm has not been exceeded
The OSHA benzene PEL is 1 ppm TWA and the Action Level is 0.5 ppm; at 0.4 ppm the worker is below both thresholds, so compliance is maintained.
Which biological monitoring specimen is MOST appropriate for assessing recent lead exposure in a worker?
Answer: Blood lead level (BLL)
Blood lead level is the primary OSHA-mandated biomarker for recent lead exposure because it reflects current absorbed dose.
A confined space contains 16% oxygen. How should this atmosphere be classified?
Answer: Oxygen-deficient; requires supplied-air respirator or SCBA
OSHA defines an oxygen-deficient atmosphere as less than 19.5% O₂, requiring supplied-air or SCBA before entry.
A noise dosimeter shows a worker received a dose of 150% over an 8-hour shift. What is the calculated TWA noise level?
Answer: Approximately 93.5 dBA
Using the formula TWA = 16.61 × log(D/100) + 90, a dose of 150% yields approximately 93.5 dBA TWA.
Which type of non-ionizing radiation is most associated with photokeratitis ('welder's flash')?
Answer: Ultraviolet-C (UV-C)
UV-C (100–280 nm) is most energetic in the ultraviolet range and causes photokeratitis, the painful corneal inflammation known as welder's flash.
A manufacturing plant uses isocyanates in a spray painting operation. What is the primary route of exposure of greatest concern?
Answer: Inhalation of aerosols and vapors
Isocyanates are potent respiratory sensitizers, and inhalation of spray aerosols or vapors is the primary route leading to occupational asthma.
Which physical hazard describes low-frequency whole-body vibration (1–80 Hz) that can cause spinal disorders in heavy equipment operators?
Answer: Whole-body vibration (WBV)
Whole-body vibration transmitted through the seat to the spine is linked to lumbar disorders in operators of vehicles and heavy equipment.