STSC Ergonomics in Construction

Question 1

Which of the following is the MOST common ergonomic risk factor contributing to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in construction workers?

Accepted Answer

Repetitive motion, heavy manual lifting, and sustained awkward postures

Answer

Construction workers routinely perform heavy lifting, repetitive tasks, and work in awkward postures — the primary ergonomic risk factors for MSDs such as sprains, strains, and cumulative trauma disorders. MSDs are among the leading causes of lost workdays in the construction industry.

Question 2

A carpenter reports tingling, numbness, and intermittent whitening of the fingers after months of extended use of vibrating power tools. This is MOST consistent with:

Accepted Answer

Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)

Answer

Prolonged exposure to hand-transmitted vibration from power tools can cause Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), also called vibration white finger. Symptoms include tingling, numbness, and blanching of the fingers, and the condition can be permanent if exposure is not reduced.

Question 3

Workers are repeatedly lifting 60-pound bags of concrete mix by hand. Which control BEST reduces ergonomic risk, according to the hierarchy of controls?

Accepted Answer

Using a mechanical lift assist, hand truck, or conveyor

Answer

The hierarchy of controls prioritizes engineering controls (mechanical lifts, conveyors, or dollies) over administrative controls (technique training, breaks) or PPE (lifting belts). Eliminating or reducing the manual lift is always more effective than managing worker behavior.

Question 4

A supervisor observes drywall finishers consistently holding their arms above shoulder height for extended periods. What is the PRIMARY ergonomic concern?

Accepted Answer

Elevated risk of shoulder impingement and neck musculoskeletal injury

Answer

Sustained overhead work is a significant ergonomic stressor that increases the risk of shoulder impingement syndrome, rotator cuff injuries, and neck strain. Supervisors should evaluate adjustable scaffolding, work platforms, or extended tools to reduce the need for overhead postures.

Question 5

Under OSHA's General Duty Clause, what must a construction supervisor do when a recognized ergonomic hazard exists on site, even though no specific OSHA ergonomics standard for construction has been issued?

Accepted Answer

Take feasible steps to reduce or eliminate the recognized hazard

Answer

Section 5(a)(1) — the General Duty Clause — requires employers to address recognized hazards that are causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm, even in the absence of a specific OSHA standard. Ergonomic hazards that cause MSDs fall within this obligation.

(STSC) Safety Trained Supervisor Construction Practice Test

(STSC) Safety Trained Supervisor Construction Practice Test

STSC Ergonomics in Construction