STSC Health Hazards and Hygiene 4

Question 1

A construction worker develops flu-like symptoms, muscle aches, and high fever after working near a cooling tower. Which occupational disease is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Legionnaires' disease

Answer

Legionnaires' disease is caused by Legionella bacteria that thrive in water systems like cooling towers and can be inhaled as aerosols.

Question 2

What is the primary route of entry for lead dust on a construction site into the human body?

Accepted Answer

Ingestion via contaminated hands

Answer

Lead dust on construction sites is most commonly ingested when workers eat, drink, or smoke without washing contaminated hands first.

Question 3

Which type of respirator provides the highest level of respiratory protection for IDLH (Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health) atmospheres?

Accepted Answer

Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)

Answer

SCBA provides the highest level of protection by supplying clean breathing air independent of the surrounding atmosphere.

Question 4

What is the OSHA permissible exposure limit (PEL) for silica dust (respirable crystalline silica) as an 8-hour TWA?

Accepted Answer

0.05 mg/m³

Answer

OSHA's PEL for respirable crystalline silica is 50 micrograms per cubic meter (0.05 mg/m³) as an 8-hour TWA.

Question 5

A supervisor notices workers developing dermatitis after handling wet cement. What is the primary cause?

Accepted Answer

Hexavalent chromium and alkaline pH of cement

Answer

Wet cement causes skin damage due to its high alkalinity and the presence of hexavalent chromium, a known skin sensitizer and carcinogen.

(STSC) Safety Trained Supervisor Construction Practice Test

(STSC) Safety Trained Supervisor Construction Practice Test

STSC Health Hazards and Hygiene 4