ITMC Safety Procedures 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Confined space entry without proper permits and atmospheric testing can result in death primarily because of:
- Limited workspace causing repetitive strain
- Oxygen deficiency, toxic gas accumulation, or engulfment hazards (Correct answer)
- Inadequate lighting leading to trips and falls
- Temperature extremes that cause heat stroke
Correct answer: Oxygen deficiency, toxic gas accumulation, or engulfment hazards
Permit-required confined spaces are deadly due to oxygen deficiency, toxic or flammable atmospheres, and engulfment risks.
Question 2: Which type of PPE is REQUIRED when grinding metal and why?
- Safety glasses only, as sparks are the only concern
- Face shield over safety glasses, to protect against flying fragments and sparks (Correct answer)
- Welding helmet, to protect against UV radiation
- Chemical splash goggles, to protect against metal dust
Correct answer: Face shield over safety glasses, to protect against flying fragments and sparks
Grinding requires a face shield worn over safety glasses because fragments and sparks can strike the face from multiple angles.
Question 3: What is the correct procedure when a machine guard is removed for maintenance?
- Post a warning sign and continue with the machine running at reduced speed
- Apply LOTO procedures to de-energize the machine before removing guards (Correct answer)
- Reattach the guard immediately after each adjustment
- Only supervisors may work on unguarded machines
Correct answer: Apply LOTO procedures to de-energize the machine before removing guards
Lockout/tagout must be applied to fully de-energize equipment before removing any machine guards.
Question 4: A maintenance worker is exposed to noise levels of 95 dBA for an 8-hour shift. According to OSHA, this requires:
- No action, as the permissible exposure limit is 100 dBA
- Hearing protection and enrollment in a hearing conservation program (Correct answer)
- Rotation of workers every 2 hours only
- Ear plugs rated for 10 dB reduction are sufficient
Correct answer: Hearing protection and enrollment in a hearing conservation program
OSHA's permissible exposure limit is 90 dBA for 8 hours, so 95 dBA requires hearing protection and a hearing conservation program.
Question 5: When using a chain hoist to lift heavy components during maintenance, the technician should FIRST:
- Attach the load and test with a quick lift
- Inspect the hoist, chain, and rigging hardware before each use (Correct answer)
- Ensure all bystanders are at least 3 feet away
- Check the serial number matches the work order
Correct answer: Inspect the hoist, chain, and rigging hardware before each use
Pre-use inspection of hoists, chains, hooks, and rigging components is mandatory to identify cracks, wear, or deformation before loading.
Question 6: The 'two-man rule' in industrial maintenance is most commonly applied when:
- Operating any forklift in a warehouse
- Performing tasks in hazardous areas where one worker could be incapacitated (Correct answer)
- Lifting objects over 50 pounds
- Using power tools near overhead electrical lines
Correct answer: Performing tasks in hazardous areas where one worker could be incapacitated
The two-man rule requires a second person present when a worker could be incapacitated by a hazard, enabling immediate rescue or emergency response.
Question 7: Ergonomic hazards in industrial maintenance are BEST addressed by:
- Training workers to tolerate discomfort
- Redesigning tasks or tools to reduce repetitive strain, awkward postures, and excessive force (Correct answer)
- Rotating workers every hour regardless of task
- Providing anti-fatigue mats as the primary control
Correct answer: Redesigning tasks or tools to reduce repetitive strain, awkward postures, and excessive force
Engineering controls that redesign tasks, tools, or workstations are the most effective way to eliminate ergonomic hazards.
Confined space entry without proper permits and atmospheric testing can result in death primarily because of: