Ergonomics Assessment & Analysis Flashcards
7 cards from real CPE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Ergonomics Assessment & Analysis flashcards as text
Which variable is NOT part of the Revised NIOSH Lifting Equation (1994)?
Answer: Vibration Multiplier (VM) for floor vibration
The Revised NIOSH Lifting Equation does not include a vibration multiplier; its six multipliers address horizontal distance, vertical height, distance, asymmetry, frequency, and coupling.
A seated workstation is adjusted so the monitor top is at the worker's eye level. According to ergonomic guidelines, this placement is:
Answer: Too high — the monitor should be at or slightly below eye level
Guidelines recommend positioning the monitor so the top of the screen is at or slightly below eye level to allow natural downward gaze and reduce neck strain.
In ergonomics, what is the purpose of a 'discomfort survey' administered before and after an intervention?
Answer: To evaluate intervention effectiveness by comparing changes in body part discomfort ratings
Pre/post discomfort surveys quantify changes in musculoskeletal symptom burden, serving as a proxy outcome measure for ergonomic intervention effectiveness.
During task analysis for a packing job, the ergonomist identifies that workers rotate their trunk greater than 45° approximately 200 times per shift. According to OWAS, this posture classification would likely result in which action category?
Answer: Action Category 3 or 4 — corrective measures required soon or immediately
Severe and frequent trunk rotation in OWAS typically maps to Action Categories 3 or 4, indicating that corrective ergonomic action is urgently needed.
Which biomechanical model is most appropriate for analyzing compression forces at the L5/S1 disc during a manual lifting task?
Answer: Static 3D biomechanical model (e.g., 3DSSPP)
3D Static Strength Prediction Programs (3DSSPP) model joint reaction forces including L5/S1 compression using body segment weights, posture, and external loads.
An ergonomics team conducts a structured walkthrough and rates tasks using a 3-point scale (low/medium/high risk). This approach is best described as:
Answer: Semi-quantitative screening
Semi-quantitative screening uses ordered scales to prioritize risks without the precision of full biomechanical measurement.
What does the coupling multiplier (CM) in the NIOSH Lifting Equation specifically address?
Answer: The quality of the hand-to-object interface (grip quality)
The Coupling Multiplier adjusts the RWL based on how well the worker can grasp the object, ranging from good (handles present) to poor (no handles, irregular shape).