CIH Ergonomics and Biomechanics 5

Question 1

Which biomechanical principle explains why a longer moment arm increases the compressive force on the lumbar spine?

Accepted Answer

Torque = Force × Distance, requiring greater counterbalancing muscle force

Answer

A longer moment arm (farther load from the spine) increases torque, requiring greater erector spinae force and compressive disc loading.

Question 2

Under OSHA's General Duty Clause, an employer's failure to address a recognized ergonomic hazard may result in a citation when:

Accepted Answer

A feasible means of abatement exists and the hazard causes or is likely to cause serious harm

Answer

The General Duty Clause applies when a recognized hazard is likely to cause serious harm and feasible controls are available, even without a specific standard.

Question 3

When evaluating hand-arm vibration (HAV) exposure, which health outcome is the occupational hygienist most concerned about?

Accepted Answer

Vibration-induced white finger (Raynaud's phenomenon)

Answer

Vibration-induced white finger (VWF) is the hallmark vascular disorder caused by chronic hand-arm vibration from power tools.

Question 4

In designing a packing station, a CIH recommends using a 'lift table' that adjusts between 30 and 48 inches. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Engineering control via workstation adjustability

Answer

Adjustable equipment that physically changes the work environment to fit the worker is an engineering control.

Question 5

The 'Composite Lifting Index' (CLI) in the revised NIOSH lifting equation is used when:

Accepted Answer

Multiple different lifting tasks are performed during a shift

Answer

The CLI combines individual lifting indexes from multiple tasks to assess overall MSD risk when workers perform varied lifting throughout a shift.

CIH - Certified Industrial Hygienist Exam Practice Test

CIH - Certified Industrial Hygienist Exam Practice Test

CIH Ergonomics and Biomechanics 5