OFA OFA Environmental & Toxicological Emergencies

Question 1

A worker is found unresponsive in a confined space with suspected toxic gas exposure. What is the FIRST action of the OFA responder?

Accepted Answer

Ensure your own safety and call for confined space rescue — do not enter without proper equipment

Answer

Immediately enter the space without equipment to retrieve the worker

Answer

Ventilate the space by opening a small window

Answer

Administer oxygen before assessing the situation

Question 2

What is the hallmark sign of heat stroke that distinguishes it from heat exhaustion?

Accepted Answer

Altered mental status (confusion, disorientation) and hot skin

Answer

Profuse sweating and cold, clammy skin

Answer

Muscle cramps with normal mental status

Answer

Nausea and mild dizziness with normal temperature

Question 3

A worker develops muscle cramps, heavy sweating, and weakness after working in extreme heat. This presentation is consistent with:

Accepted Answer

Heat exhaustion

Answer

Heat stroke

Answer

Hypothermia

Answer

Dehydration-induced cardiac arrest

Question 4

How should an OFA responder manage a conscious worker suffering from heat exhaustion?

Accepted Answer

Move to a cool area, remove excess clothing, give cool fluids if alert, apply cool wet cloths

Answer

Keep them working to prevent muscles from seizing up

Answer

Give the worker a large amount of iced water quickly

Answer

Place the worker in a hot shower to gradually cool them

Question 5

Which environmental condition poses the GREATEST risk for hypothermia in an outdoor workplace?

Accepted Answer

Cold temperature combined with wet clothing and wind

Answer

High temperature with low humidity

Answer

Cold temperature with full dry protective gear

Answer

Moderate temperature with direct sunlight

Question 6

A worker with severe hypothermia is found outdoors. Which action should the OFA responder avoid?

Accepted Answer

Vigorous rubbing of the extremities to generate heat

Answer

Covering with blankets to retain heat

Answer

Moving the worker gently to avoid triggering cardiac arrhythmia

Answer

Removing wet clothing carefully