Worker safety Flashcards
(12 cards)
Analyze the effectiveness of the hierarchy of risk control in the provided scenario. Which levels could have prevented the incident, and how?
- Elimination/Substitution: The use of a safer alternative to the hazardous solvent waste could have entirely removed the hazard.
- Engineering Controls: Improved ventilation could have reduced worker exposure to toxic fumes.
- Administrative Controls: Regular training and clear signage could have ensured workers followed protocols.
- PPE: Properly equipped workers with respirators would have mitigated the harm caused by exposure.
Based on the incident and accident examples in the document, analyze the key differences in outcomes and potential consequences.
- Incident: The minor leak was identified and addressed without harm, highlighting preparedness and early detection.
- Accident: The dropped drum caused worker harm due to inadequate controls, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures like PPE and proper container conditions.
What were the contributing factors to the chemical spill incident? Classify them as immediate or root causes.
- Immediate Causes:
- Technician not wearing PPE.
- Obscured warning sign.
- Spill kit not easily accessible. - Root Causes:
- Outdated training and lack of enforcement.
- Delayed replacement of worn-out containers.
- Poor workspace organization leading to blocked signs
How did the condition of the container contribute to the incident? Provide an analysis of its impact.
- The container’s seal showed visible wear and corrosion, making it more likely to fail under stress.
- Previous incidents of minor leaks suggest neglect in addressing recurring issues, increasing risk over time.
Analyze the corrective measures suggested in the document. Which hierarchy of risk control measures would be most effective in preventing a similar incident?
- Engineering Controls: Installing automated ventilation systems in hazardous waste areas would provide constant mitigation against fumes.
- Administrative Controls: Enforcing periodic training and inspections ensures policies are understood and followed.
- Elimination/Substitution: Switching to less hazardous waste materials would have the greatest long-term effect.
Analyze the supervisor’s statement and determine how management practices could be improved to prevent future incidents.
- The supervisor acknowledged gaps in training and the improper placement of spill kits, highlighting a need for better enforcement of policies.
- Regular audits and clear accountability for policy adherence are necessary.
If the incident had escalated to an accident with environmental damage, how would the analysis differ in terms of responsibility and mitigation?
- The analysis would expand to include environmental impact, increasing the urgency for containment protocols.
- Legal and regulatory compliance would be reviewed, and stricter enforcement of container inspection schedules would be necessary.
Evaluate how risk assessments could have identified and mitigated the factors leading to the spill.
Risk assessments would highlight container wear, obscured signage, and lack of PPE use as critical vulnerabilities, prompting preemptive action.
Analyze the effectiveness of the current safety policies based on the evidence. How could they be improved?
While policies exist, gaps in training and enforcement diminish their effectiveness. Improvements include mandatory policy audits and staff refresher courses.
Assess the role of worker training in preventing the incident. How can training programs be optimized?
Insufficient training on emergency response contributed to delays and mishandling. Regular hands-on drills and immediate feedback mechanisms would improve readiness.
How would the incident’s analysis change if environmental harm had occurred?
The focus would shift to containment strategies, impact analysis, and compliance with environmental protection laws, alongside worker safety measures.
What follow-up actions should management take after the incident to prevent recurrence?
Actions include updating and enforcing policies, replacing old containers, conducting root cause investigations, and involving workers in safety planning.
