The Industrial Ergonomics Quiz! Trivia

The correct answer is "all of the above" because all the mentioned factors can contribute to tools becoming a problem. Heavy tools can cause strain and fatigue in the user, while static work can lead to muscle fatigue and discomfort. Tools that do not allow for neutral postures can put stress on the body and increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. Additionally, handles that are too big or small for the worker's hands can make it difficult to maintain a proper grip and control, leading to potential accidents or injuries.

A pro-active ergonomic approach in an industrial setting leads to a reduction in work-related injuries by identifying and addressing potential hazards and implementing measures to prevent accidents. It also increases productivity by optimizing workstations and processes to enhance efficiency. Additionally, it reduces lost time and absenteeism as employees experience fewer injuries and are able to work consistently. Lastly, it helps to reduce physical and mental stress by providing a comfortable and safe working environment. Therefore, all of the above benefits can be achieved through a pro-active ergonomic approach.

The BEST ergonomic considerations for hand tool design include ensuring that the tool allows for neutral postures, is easy to use, is selected to fit the worker's hand, and is appropriate for the job. This means that the tool should not put unnecessary strain on the user's body, should be user-friendly, should fit comfortably in the hand, and should be designed specifically for the task at hand. These considerations prioritize the user's comfort, safety, and efficiency while using the tool.

Gloves may be harmful because they can cause a decrease in feeling, meaning that the wearer may not have full sensitivity and control over their movements. Additionally, gloves can cause the operator to use more grip force than necessary, which can lead to muscle strain or fatigue. Moreover, if gloves do not fit properly, they may cause discomfort, restrict movement, or even create hazards. Lastly, gloves can reduce traction or friction, making it difficult to handle objects or perform tasks effectively. Therefore, all of the above reasons contribute to why gloves may be harmful.

To reduce injury due to vibration, various measures can be taken. One way is to reduce the power of the tool, as lower power levels can result in reduced vibration. Incorporating articulating arms can also help by providing better control and stability, minimizing the impact of vibration on the operator. Another approach is to take the tool weight out of the operator's hands, which can reduce the strain caused by vibrations. Additionally, installing materials like cork, plastic, or rubber on the handles can absorb some of the vibrations, further reducing the risk of injury. Therefore, all of the above methods can contribute to reducing injury due to vibration.

The choice of tool should depend on the task and the worker characteristics because different tasks require different tools and different workers may have different physical abilities and limitations. For example, a heavy-duty tool may be needed for a task that requires a lot of strength, while a lighter tool may be more suitable for a worker who has physical limitations. Considering both the task and the worker characteristics ensures that the tool chosen is appropriate and comfortable for the worker to use.

During dynamic work, the body requires more oxygen to meet the increased demand for energy. This is because physical activity increases the metabolic rate, leading to higher oxygen consumption by the muscles. In response to this increased demand, the body increases the supply of oxygen by increasing the heart rate and respiratory rate, allowing for more oxygen to be delivered to the working muscles. Therefore, the statement "oxygen supply increases and oxygen demand increases" is true in the context of dynamic work vs. rest.

When handling a heavy tool all day, it is not recommended for the worker to totally support it, such as suspending it from the ceiling. This is because continuously supporting the weight of the tool can lead to fatigue and strain on the worker's muscles and joints, increasing the risk of injury. Therefore, it is important for the worker to find ways to set down the tool and take breaks to avoid prolonged strain and distribute the weight more evenly. Using gloves and wrapping the handles with rubber may provide better grip and reduce the risk of slipping, but they do not address the issue of supporting the weight.

During static work, the muscles are contracting but there is no movement occurring. This type of activity requires a continuous supply of oxygen to meet the increased demand from the muscles. However, since there is no movement, the oxygen supply decreases compared to when the body is at rest. At the same time, the demand for oxygen increases due to the muscle contractions. Therefore, the statement "oxygen supply decreases and oxygen demand increases" is true for static work vs. rest.

The given answer suggests that a tool being easy to use, appropriate for the job, and the cheapest is a risk factor for circulatory injuries. This explanation does not make sense as these factors do not contribute to the risk of circulatory injuries. It is important to consider other factors such as ergonomics, handle design, and the potential for pressure points or restricted blood flow when assessing the risk of circulatory injuries.