IOSH Common Hazards in the Workplace 4

Question 1

What is the main legislation covering workplace noise exposure?

Accepted Answer

The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005

Answer

The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 set out specific duties for employers regarding noise exposure at work. They establish exposure action values and limits, require noise assessments, mandate hearing protection and health surveillance, and require the elimination or reduction of noise exposure.

Question 2

What are the main hazards associated with compressed gases?

Accepted Answer

Explosion from overpressure, fire from flammable gases, asphyxiation from gas displacing oxygen, and injuries from cylinder falls or valve failures

Answer

Compressed gases present multiple hazards: explosion (overpressure, heat exposure), fire (flammable gases like acetylene, hydrogen), asphyxiation (inert gases displacing oxygen in confined spaces), toxic exposure, cold burns (from liquefied gases), and physical injuries from falling cylinders or failed valves.

Question 3

What are the main workplace hazards from vehicles and mobile plant?

Accepted Answer

Being struck by or caught between vehicles, reversing incidents, overturning, loading/unloading injuries, and driver fatigue or distraction

Answer

Key hazards include: pedestrians being struck (especially during reversing), workers caught between vehicles or vehicle and fixed objects, vehicles overturning, falls during loading/unloading, crushing injuries, and incidents caused by driver fatigue, distraction, or poor visibility.

Question 4

What controls are required for safe use of ladders?

Accepted Answer

Ladders should only be used for short-duration, low-risk work; they must be in good condition, properly positioned, secured, and used by competent persons

Answer

Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, ladders should only be used for short-duration work where the risk is low. Controls include: checking condition before use, correct angle (75° or 1:4), securing at the top, three points of contact, both feet on the rungs, and competent users.

Question 5

What are the main hazards of lone working?

Accepted Answer

Violence, medical emergencies with no help available, inability to summon assistance, accidents without witnesses, and psychosocial effects of isolation

Answer

Lone workers face specific hazards: vulnerability to violence or aggression, no immediate help during medical emergencies, difficulty summoning assistance, accidents where no one witnesses or assists, fatigue and stress from isolation, and performing tasks that usually require two people.

IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

IOSH Common Hazards in the Workplace 4