Risk Assessment & Mitigation Flashcards

When working on a ladder near electrical lines, what is the minimum safe approach distance for a handyman working on lines under 50kV?

Answer: 10 feet

OSHA requires a minimum clearance of 10 feet from energized power lines up to 50kV for unqualified workers.

A homeowner asks you to dispose of old paint cans with dried paint residue. What is the safest approach?

Answer: Throw them in regular trash once paint is fully dry

Dried latex paint is generally non-hazardous and can go in regular trash, but local regulations vary and oil-based paint requires hazardous waste disposal.

You discover asbestos-containing floor tiles while removing flooring in a pre-1980 home. What should you do?

Answer: Stop work and recommend a licensed asbestos abatement contractor

Disturbing asbestos-containing materials releases dangerous fibers; only licensed abatement contractors should remove them.

Which type of fire extinguisher is appropriate for a grease fire in a kitchen?

Answer: Class K (wet chemical)

Class K extinguishers use wet chemical agents specifically designed to suppress cooking oil and grease fires by saponification.

What does a 'hierarchy of controls' prioritize FIRST when mitigating a workplace hazard?

Answer: Elimination of the hazard

The hierarchy of controls places elimination at the top because removing the hazard entirely is the most effective protection method.

Before starting demolition work on interior walls, what utility check is MOST critical to perform first?

Answer: Locate and de-energize electrical wiring in the wall

Cutting through energized electrical wiring in walls poses an immediate electrocution risk and must be de-energized before demolition begins.

A job site has standing water after rain. What is the primary risk this creates for a handyman using power tools?

Answer: Electrocution from ground fault

Water creates a path for electrical current, dramatically increasing the risk of ground fault electrocution when using power tools.