IOSH Understanding Hazards

Question 1

What is a 'physical hazard' in the workplace?

Accepted Answer

A hazard arising from energy sources such as noise, vibration, radiation, temperature extremes or pressure

Answer

Physical hazards arise from forms of energy including noise, vibration, ionising and non-ionising radiation, extremes of temperature, pressure, and electricity. They can cause immediate injury or long-term health effects such as hearing loss or vibration white finger.

Question 2

What is a 'chemical hazard'?

Accepted Answer

A substance that can cause harm through inhalation, ingestion, skin contact or injection, such as solvents, acids, dusts or fumes

Answer

Chemical hazards include any substance that can cause harm to health through various routes of entry into the body: inhalation (breathing in), ingestion (swallowing), skin absorption or contact, or injection. Examples include solvents, acids, alkalis, dusts, fumes, and gases.

Question 3

What is a 'biological hazard'?

Accepted Answer

A hazard from living organisms or their products that can cause infection, allergy or toxic effects, such as bacteria, viruses or fungi

Answer

Biological hazards include bacteria (e.g., Legionella, Leptospira), viruses (e.g., hepatitis, COVID-19), fungi (e.g., moulds), parasites, and biological products such as endotoxins. They can cause infections, allergies, and toxic reactions.

Question 4

What is an 'ergonomic hazard'?

Accepted Answer

A hazard arising from the interaction between the worker and their work environment, leading to musculoskeletal disorders

Answer

Ergonomic hazards arise from poor design of workstations, tasks or tools that result in a mismatch between the worker's capabilities and the demands of the job. They can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) including back pain, repetitive strain injuries, and upper limb disorders.

Question 5

What is a 'psychosocial hazard'?

Accepted Answer

A hazard arising from the way work is designed, organised or managed, causing psychological or physical harm such as stress

Answer

Psychosocial hazards include factors such as excessive workload, lack of control, poor management support, bullying, harassment, violence, shift work, and work-life imbalance. They can cause stress, anxiety, depression, and related physical health problems.

IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

IOSH Understanding Hazards