Question

workplace ergonomics multiple - choice questions
circle the letter of the best answer. read all choices before responding.

1. derek assembles jewelry at a factory. he must bend forward because his work table is low to the ground. to prevent a strain in his back, derek should

a. immediately quit his job.
b. say nothing so he does not get fired.
c. request a taller work table.
d. ask for better lighting.

1. carolina is a butcher at a grocery store. a risk factor for injury is

a. cold temperatures in the walk - in freezer and work area.
b. heavy lifting of meats.
c. compression on her hands due to grasping of knife handles.
d. all of the above.

1. using principles of ergonomics in the workplace

a. always requires money to reduce a risk factor.
b. is only something supervisors can do.
c. can reduce injury rates and improve worker comfort and productivity.
d. does all of the above.

1. carpal tunnel syndrome (cts), a medical condition affecting the hands and wrists, is caused by repetitive manual tasks. to avoid cts while working on a computer,

a. take frequent work breaks.
b. use good posture.
c. avoid bending wrists extensively when using the keyboard.
d. do all of the above.

1. sergio is a manager. he leads a job hazard analysis to reduce injuries among his employees. his analysis should include a review of

a. tools and equipment.
b. job duties and practices.
c. personal protective equipment.
d. all of the above

1. andré works at a desk all day. to prevent injuries, he should

a. adjust his chair height so his feet are firmly on the floor.
b. place the computer monitor several feet away so he must squint to see it.
c. place his drink on the floor so he has to bend and twist to reach it.
d. do all of the above

1. maria is an automotive mechanic. she uses good principles of ergonomics by

a. using right - handed tools even though she is left - handed.
b. using absorbent rubber covers on handles of tools that vibrate.
c. working for extended periods of time in crouched and awkward positions.
d. doing all of the above.

1. chelsea is a construction worker. her least likely ergonomic risk factor is

a. stretching to reach something high.
b. feeling constant vibration caused by handheld power tools.
c. using tools to help her do her job
d. losing hearing by not using earplugs.

Explanation:

1. Derek's back strain comes from a low work table; a taller table fixes the posture issue.
2. All listed factors (cold, heavy lifting, hand compression) are injury risks for a butcher.
3. Workplace ergonomics reduces injuries, boosts comfort and productivity, and does not only require money or supervisor action.
4. Frequent breaks, good posture, and avoiding wrist bending all help prevent carpal tunnel syndrome from computer work.
5. A full job hazard analysis covers tools, job practices, and protective equipment.
6. Adjusting chair height for flat feet is an ergonomic practice; the other options create injury risks.
7. Rubber covers on vibrating tool handles reduce hand/arm strain, which is an ergonomic practice; the other options are poor ergonomics.
8. Using tools to assist work reduces ergonomic risk, while the other options are clear ergonomic hazards or risks.

Answer:

1. c. request a taller work table.
2. d. all of the above.
3. c. can reduce injury rates and improve worker comfort and productivity.
4. d. do all of the above.
5. d. all of the above
6. a. adjust his chair height so his feet are firmly on the floor.
7. b. using absorbent rubber covers on handles of tools that vibrate.
8. c. using tools to help her do her job