CSO Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CSO facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. When working at a computer workstation, which of the following describes the recommended ergonomic posture? → Back straight, feet flat on the floor, and the monitor top at or slightly below eye level
2. Which of the following best describes the correct technique for manually lifting a heavy object from the floor? → Bend at the knees, keep the back straight, and lift using leg muscles
3. Some potential eye hazards in the workplace include strain, impact, dust, and chemicals. → True
4. Exposure to noise levels over a long period of time at or below 75 dB can cause hearing loss. → True
5. When documenting a near miss, which piece of information is LEAST critical for the initial report? → The estimated financial cost of the potential damage.
6. What is the generally accepted maximum recommended weight for a single person to lift manually without mechanical assistance in most US workplaces? → 50 lbs (23 kg)
7. Which body movement during manual lifting places the greatest stress on the lumbar (lower) spine? → Twisting or rotating the torso while bearing a load
8. When using PASS, where should you aim the extinguisher nozzle? → At the base of the fire
9. Universal Precautions means treating bodily fluids as if they are known to be infectious. → True
10. Which of the following is primarily an employer's responsibility regarding Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)? → Providing required PPE at no cost to the worker.
11. What should you do if your primary evacuation route is blocked by fire? → Use an alternate exit route
12. What is the FIRST action you should take when you discover a fire? → Activate the fire alarm
13. You should know how to use the fire alarm and the locations of all fire extinguishers in your workplace. → True
14. If you fall, try to soften or break the fall with your hands and arms. → False
15. What color are standard fire extinguishers in the US to aid quick identification? → Red
16. Which of the following is best classified as an ergonomic hazard? → Poorly designed workstations that require workers to perform tasks in awkward postures.
17. Which of the following actions is a direct violation of the 'Bypassing Safety Controls' Life Saving Rule? → Propping open a self-closing fire door for convenience.
18. Hot work such as welding requires which specific safety precaution? → A hot work permit and an assigned fire watch
19. Any employee who is working on the locked-out equipment has the authority to remove the lock. → False
20. Physical sexual contact, offensive verbal language, and nonverbal sexual conduct are all examples of Hostile Work Environment harassment. → True
21. What organization's standards are typically referenced for the design, performance, and testing of PPE in Canada? → CSA Group (Canadian Standards Association)
22. Under the hierarchy of controls, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is considered: → The last line of defense against hazards.
23. Which section of the SDS provides information on safe chemical storage requirements? → Section 7
24. Which of the following is a critical component of an effective Emergency Response Plan (ERP)? → Clear communication protocols and designated evacuation routes.
25. What is the correct course of action when a load is determined to be too heavy for one person to lift safely? → Use mechanical lifting aids or request a co-worker to perform a coordinated team lift
26. During an emergency evacuation, what is the primary purpose of a designated muster point? → To serve as a central location for accountability and communication.
27. An effective incident and near-miss reporting program is considered a cornerstone of a strong safety culture because it: → Demonstrates a proactive commitment to identifying hazards and preventing harm.
28. An employer's responsibility for PPE includes which of the following? → Selecting the appropriate PPE and ensuring workers are trained on its proper use.
29. Before using any hazardous chemical, OSHA requires workers to: → Read and understand the SDS
30. Which type of injury is most commonly associated with improper manual handling in the workplace? → Back and musculoskeletal injuries