Managing Occupational Ill Health:

1-19:
Question 11 An employer has an occupational health department that carries out vocational rehabilitation.
(a) Outline the meaning of the term ‘vocational rehabilitation’. (2)
(b) Outline the benefits of vocational rehabilitation to:
(i) the employer; (4)
(ii) a worker. (4)
(c) A worker is required to take 12 months away from their work to receive treatment for a long-term medical
condition.
Outline what the employer can do to assist the worker BOTH during the absence and at the time of their return to
work. (10)

1-18:
Question 2 (a) Give the meaning of the term ‘occupational health’. (2)
A large organisation is outsourcing its occupational health service to a contractor. It has been advised to choose a
contractor that carries the SEQOHS logo.
(b) (i) Identify what SEQOHS stands for. (1)
(ii) Outline how SEQOHS operates. (5)
(c) Outline TWO benefits to a worker of having access to an occupational health service at work. (2)

7-17:
Question 3 (a) Give the meaning of the term ‘vocational rehabilitation’. (2)
A worker has been absent from work for eight months following a back injury. This was a work-related manual
handling injury. This worker is due to return to work.
(b) Using the bio-psychosocial model, outline possible barriers to the worker’s rehabilitation. (3)
(c) Outline ways in which the employer can assist workers to return to work. (5)

7-16:
Question 3 Identify functions that may be carried out by an occupational health service in a large manufacturing
organisation. (10)

7-16:
Question 11 (a) Outline how the use of drugs or alcohol can adversely affect a worker’s fitness to work. (4)
(b) Outline circumstances when drug and alcohol testing should be used at work. (4)
(c) Outline how drug or alcohol problems at work can be managed effectively. (8)
(d) Identify disciplines or agencies that may assist in assessing or managing the use of drugs or alcohol at work.
(4)

7-15:
Question 11
11.3 Outline the management of occupational health (including the practical and legal aspects)

1-14:
Question 6 (a) Outline the meaning of the term ‘vocational rehabilitation’. (2)
(b) Outline the benefits to the employer of vocational rehabilitation. (5)
(c) Identify health care practitioners who may be involved in the vocational rehabilitation of a worker. (3)
LEV and Ventilation:
1-18:
Question 4 An employer wants to use local exhaust ventilation (LEV) system to control workers’ exposure to a
hazardous gas generated during a manufacturing process.
(a) (i) Outline control options that the employer should consider before deciding an LEV system is the
appropriate means of control. (4)
- Elimination of the exposure by cease the use of hazardous substance, substitute, and alternative
process.
- Good design and installation which may include segregation, total enclosure, modifying working
method
(ii) Outline what the employer should consider when specifying an LEV system to control this hazardous gas. (4)
- The source of the gas emitted.
- The generation rate of the substance.
- The OEL of the substance.
- The hazardous properties of the substance.
(b) Other than the employer, identify TWO other persons with responsibilities in relation to an LEV system.
(2)
- The LEV Service Engineer.
- The LEV Supplier.

7-16:
Question 5 A local exhaust ventilation (LEV) system is used to reduce exposure of workers to dust in a
workplace. The employer needs to assess the ongoing effectiveness of the LEV system.
(a) Identify THREE simple qualitative methods that can be used to assess the effectiveness of the LEV
system AND, for EACH method, explain how the effectiveness can be visually assessed. (6)
- Visual inspection looking for deposits settled dust in or around the LEV hood, noise and vibration of the
LEV system and wear and tear.
- Dust Lamp, which will make the dust cloud visible and so the direction and behavior of the cloud will
reflect the effectiveness of the system.
- Smoke, by using smoke tube, smoke generator and smoke pellets we can generate artificial smoke that
and from the direction of the smoke we can assist the effectiveness of the system.
(b) Identify TWO quantitative methods that can be used to measure transport velocity in an LEV system AND
explain how EACH method measures the transport velocity. (4)
- The anemometer which measure the velocity pressure inside the ventilation system and then the
reading can be converted to velocity by simple formula.
- Diaphragm gauge: measure the pressure that applied to the diaphragm by the air flow.

7-15:
Question 3
3.1 Explain the purpose and operation of local exhaust ventilation and dilution ventilation including
assessing and maintaining effectiveness

1-17:
Question 6 Dilution ventilation is sometimes used to control certain types of hazardous substances generated in
a workplace.
(a) Outline circumstances when dilution ventilation may be appropriate as a control measure. (3)
- The OEL of the substance is high.
- The vapor pressure produced is low.
- The operator isn’t in close contact with the substance point of generation.
- The generation rate of the substance is low.
(b) Explain how an effective dilution ventilation system is designed and operates to reduce exposure to a
hazardous substance. (4)
- Can be effectively designed you should put two points in your consideration, the generation rat of the
substance and the position of the inlet and outlet air holes.
- If the density of the airborne contaminant is more than 1 , so the inlet and outlet holes should be in
minimum level of the room. And if the density is less than 1, so the inlet and out let holes should be in the
highest position, e.g. in the roof.
- Another thing to check the effectiveness of the dilution ventilation is the formation of the dear areas; it’s
areas that and due to air flow direction, remain dormant.
- The effectiveness of the dilution ventilation can also be assessed by measuring the concentration of the
air borne contaminant, if the concentration is found below OEL that means the system is effective.
(c) The following specification applies in an open-plan workshop:
Workshop dimensions (metres): 10m x 10m x 3m
Volume of air throughput each hour: 3000m3
Required air changes per hour: 10 to 15
Calculate the actual number of air changes per hour AND comment on the suitability of the specified dilution
ventilation system. (3)

 Identify other parameters that may be measured to determine if the LEV system is working as designed.
(3)

1. Capture velocity, pressure differential across the filter, fan direction and fan speed.
2. Measurement of the level of contaminants in the workplace air, power consumption and emission levels from
the exhaust may also give an indication of the efficiency of an LEV system, all other things being equal.

5. Jul 10-E3-Q1-10
Outline the main design features of the following parts of a Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) system:
(a) inlet/hood; (2)
(b) Ducting; (3)
(c) Fan; (2)
(d) Outlet / exhaust. (3)

Inlet or hood
o Shape and size
o The material of its construction
o Its capture and face velocity
o Its positioning in relation to the contaminant source
Ducting
o Its internal finish and the nature of its bends
o The material of its construction
o Its transport velocity
o The access provided for testing and maintenance
Fan
o The type of fan required whether centrifugal or axial and propeller giving reasons for the choice
o The speed and power required
o The possibility of the level of noise it might produce
Outlet or exhaust,
o Its positioning
o The avoidance of cowls
o Its ability to achieve environmental standards at the point of discharge
o The level of noise that might be produced
Vibration

1-19:
Question 1 Workers driving vehicles on a large construction site have reported back pain caused by exposure to
whole body vibration (WBV).
(a) Outline control measures that could minimise their exposure to WBV. (7)
(b) Outline other possible work-related causes of the back pain being experienced by these workers. (3)

7-17:
Question 6 A manufacturer’s data on vibration emission from equipment can be used to estimate the exposure of
workers to hand-arm vibration (HAV). This manufacturer’s data is measured in a laboratory and can
underestimate the actual vibration magnitude experienced by workers.
(a) Outline possible reasons for this difference. (2)
(b) Outline how vibration emission from a hand-held tool might be measured. (3)
(c) Outline the content of a training course for workers exposed to HAV. (5)

1-17:
Question 11 (a) Construction workers are at risk of developing hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS).
(i) Outline factors that may increase this risk. (5)
- Exposure to low temperature.
- Smoking.
- Pre-existing circulatory disorders such as Raynaud’s phenomenon.
- Pre-existing trap nerves or neurological disorders.

(ii) Outline the steps of a health surveillance programme for workers who are exposed to hand-arm vibration. (5)
- The ILO code of practice recommends that health surveillance is carried out for all workers potentially
exposed to vibration in the workplace; this could take the form of following checks:
* A pre-employment medical to identify symptoms of HAVS and other non-occupational disease such as
Raynaud’s phenomena.
* Periodic medical examination for those workers exposed to hand-arm vibration, including the
identification of possible symptoms of HAVS such as numbness and loss of sensation.
(b) A construction worker has been off work for a period of time suffering from HAVS and the employer’s
occupational health department wants to find out if they are fit to return to work.
(i) Outline the way in which symptom severity of HAVS is classified using the Stockholm scale. (5)
(ii) Outline options that the occupational health department can suggest to the employer if the occupational health
doctor decides that the worker cannot return to the work that exposes them to vibration. (5)

Options could include a range from recommending a return to normal duties (if this involves no vibration
exposure), to adapting the existing job if possible to remove vibration exposure, and finally recommending
termination of employment on medical grounds. It was important too to determine if the vibration was indeed work-
related or not.

7-16:
Question 7 Construction workers use a range of equipment and vehicles that may expose them to high levels of
vibration.
(a) Outline issues that a vibration risk assessment should consider. (8)
Vibration risk assessments will need to consider a range of issues including:
- Identification of the sources and tasks producing the vibration,
- Their actual (measured) or expected (estimated) emission levels.
- Any exposure limits that might be relevant.
- Duration of exposure (trigger time).
- Whether the vibration is WBV or HAV.
- The environmental conditions (exposure to cold, particularly for HAV).
- If necessary arrange for competent person to take measurement.
- Identifying if there is potential to eliminate the sources of vibration.
- Determining if additional controls needed, such as training or the use of supports may be effective in
reducing the risk.

(b) Outline practical measures to prevent or control exposure to vibration for these workers. (12)
General control measures could have included
- alternative work methods,
- making sure the vehicle or tool were powerful enough (to shorten the task),
- Selecting/replacing equipment for lower vibration characteristics,
- Limiting exposure duration and referral of those experiencing symptoms of HAVS or WBV effects
to occupational health specialists for evaluation.
For HAV, specific measures might also include
- Modifying the workstation design to minimise load on wrists and
- Providing warm clothing (including gloves) to protect from cold/wet environments and aid good
circulation.
- Vehicle-specific measures would include adjusting the vehicle speed to the ground conditions (to
avoid sharp jolts) and
- making sure the vehicle seat was properly adjusted to avoid ‘bottoming out’ of the suspension.

1-16:
Question 5
6.6 Explain the effects of vibration on the individual
6.8 Explain the principles for controlling vibration and vibration exposure

7-15:
Question 5
6.6 Explain the effects of vibration on the individual
6.7 Explain the measurement and assessment of vibration exposure

Noise:
1-19:
Question 10 (a) A machine operator works at a number of different machines during each 8-hour working day.
(i) Describe how static measurements of sound pressure level can be made while the operator is operating the
machines. (4)
(ii) Explain how to determine the daily personal noise exposure (LEP,d) for the operator from the static
measurements of these sound pressure levels. (3)
(b) The result of a personal dosimetry measurement of noise exposure for this operator on a similar working day
provides an LEP,d that is 4 dB(A) greater than that determined in part (a).
Other than equipment errors, outline possible reasons for the difference. (3)
(c) Outline the possible technical control measures that could be introduced to help reduce the workers’ exposure
to the noise. (10)

7-18:

Question 10 A worker is using a hand-held jackhammer to break up a large area of concrete. Jackhammers
produce high levels of noise and vibration.
(a) Outline the possible ill-health effects to the worker from the prolonged use of jackhammers to break
concrete. (5)
Noise induced hearing loss, circulatory disorders, threshold shift, HAV and WBV, silicosis and Tinnitus.
(b) Outline actions that the worker can take to help reduce the risks from their exposure to the noise and
vibration of this work activity. (7)
- Decrease the exposure time by working on shift.
- Giving up smoking can help reduce the health risk from vibration.
- Inspect the tools and equipment before start the work looking for any abnormal noise and vibration.
- Wearing PPE properly such as gloves for vibration and ear protection for noise.
- Use the knowledge that they gain during their training and applied in the task they carried.
- follow the instruction that received form the employer or health and safety practitioner regarding the work
regimes and use of control measures.
- Report any early symptoms of hearing reduction or HAVS/WBVs.

-
(c) Review the similarities and differences between hand-arm vibration exposure assessment and noise exposure
assessment. (8)
That both involve consideration of magnitude, frequency and duration of exposure. Measurements of both noise
and vibration exposure are typically carried out over a working shift and all sources of noise and vibration
exposure must be considered.
The obvious differences between assessment of noise and vibration exposure arise because different units of
measurement are used, the measuring devices are placed in different locations (ie near the ear or on the
handle/wrist) etc. Noise assessment is based on sound pressure levels, whereas vibration is an acceleration
measurement.
1-18:

Question 10 A night club hires musicians and DJs to play live and pre-recorded amplified music daily, from a
stage. In the same room is a bar where workers are employed serving drinks.
Following personal noise exposure monitoring, a high risk of excessive noise exposure was identified for all
workers in the bar area. Suitable hearing protection has been provided to the entire bar workers.
Other than the provision of hearing protection, outline control measures that could help reduce the risks to the bar
workers’ hearing. (20)
 Reduced noise at source by
- Eliminate the use of DJ equipment or otherwise replace it with less noisy one.
- Re-locate the nose source to by far away from the workers at the bar.
- Re-design the DJ equipment in order to produce less noise.
- Carry out maintenance if needed.
 Attenuate Noise Transmission, reduce the transmission of noise before it reaches the worker, through:
- Isolating the source to prevent transmission.
- Acoustic barriers that interrupt the movement of the sound waves through the air.
- Acoustic enclosure of the noise source.
 Control noise exposure at the receiver by:
- Acoustic heaven.
- Hearing protection zones and using of passive and active hearing protection.
- Limiting time exposure.
- Health surveillance for the bar workers.

7-17:
Question 11 An employer has identified that workers are exposed to high noise levels and has used the single
number rating (SNR) method to select hearing protection, using the information below:
Sound pressure level 91dB(C)
SNR for selected hearing 29
protection

(a) Using the data in the above table, calculate AND explain how to determine a realistic estimate of the A-
weighted sound pressure level entering the ear of the workers wearing this hearing protection. (4)
(b) Comment on whether the attenuation that is provided by this hearing protection is appropriate. (2)
(c) Identify TWO other methods that could be used to determine if the hearing protection selected provides
appropriate attenuation AND, for EACH of these methods, outline the data required in order to be able to
calculate the attenuation provided by this hearing protection. (6)
(d) Other than noise attenuation, outline factors that the employer should consider when selecting hearing
protection. (8)

1-17:
Question 4 A fire alarm engineer visits many customers’ premises during the working day in order to check that
fire alarm sounders are operating at the correct sound level. The engineer does not wear hearing protection.
(a) Explain how the engineer may be at risk of hearing damage. (3)
(b) Explain how the engineer’s personal noise exposure should be determined. (7)

1-16:
Question 10
6.4 Explain the principles of controlling noise and noise exposure

7-15:
Question 10
6.2 Explain the effects of noise on the individual and the use of audiometry
6.4 Explain the principles of controlling noise and noise exposure

1-14:
Question 10 A newspaper printing company that employs 80 workers operates several printing presses in a large
open-plan area. Noise is considered to be a problem.
(a) Identify the information that should be obtained before carrying out a noise survey in the open-plan area. (6)
(b) Explain how the noise survey should be carried out AND the type of equipment that could be used to assess
workers’ exposure to noise. (14)

Radiation:
1-19: Question 4 Glass blowers use furnaces to produce molten glass that they then blow into shapes to make
glasses and vases. During their work they are exposed to different types of non-ionising optical radiation.
(a) Identify the possible ill-health effects to the glass blowers from exposure to the non-ionising optical
radiation. (3)
- Skin burns, arc-eye, increased the risk of skin cancer, blindness, premature aging of the skin, and cataracts.
(b) Describe the specific requirements of the personal protective equipment that would be required to protect the
glass blowers from the non-ionising optical radiation. (3)
- Wearing long sleeves overall with high collars and gloves that applicable to the type of radiation emitted.
- The face can protected by use the of a face shield which cannot be penetrated by the radiation in question.
- The eye must be protected with the use of eye protection that absorb the radiation

(c) Other than ill-health effects and control measures, outline what should be considered in a radiation risk
assessment. (4)
The risk assessment should consider some factors according to the ILO code of practice:
- Any equipment that is likely to give rise to a risk of exposure. Information should be
sought from suppliers about the potential emission and any controls required during
installation and use.
- Any activities those are likely to give rise of risk of exposure.
- Comparison of measured exposure level with exposure limits obtained from the
competent authority.
- The potential of misuse or misunderstanding of safety precautions.
7-18: Question 3 A training organisation wants to introduce hand-held laser pointers for use by their trainers
when presenting courses to students.
Recent media reports suggest that some hand-held laser pointers can contain Class 3B or Class 4 lasers.
(a) Identify potential eye damage that could result from exposure to lasers with these classifications. (3)
- Those classes of Laser have high power the equal or more than 500mW and they hazardous to the eye both
directly and indirectly (reflection); so their effects on the eye is likely to be permanent damage to retina of the eye
and lead to total blindness; some damage also can occur to the tissues in the front of the eye such as cornea and
the lens.
(b) Outline control measures that could help reduce the potential for eye damage to the trainers and students. (7)
- Engineering controls such as screening/enclosure to prevent the escape of the hazardous beam, interlocks in
the equipment and rooms so that power to the laser is isolated when hazardous areas are entered, non-reflective
surfaces.
- Administrative control such as warning lights, signs, training of the trainers on the risk associated of the laser
use, safe system of work and emergency procedures, laser safety eye wear, skin protection

7-17:
Question 9 (a) Identify possible health effects from exposure to ionising radiation. (5)
- Acute effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, headache, fever, central nervous system impairment, skin
burns and death.
- Chronic health effects such as sterility, genetic mutation, tumors and cancer.

(b) Outline control measures that could minimise workers’ exposure to ionising radiation. (15)
For external radiation the control measures should be fall under three headings, the shielding, time, and
distance.
For internal radiation the control measures should focused in preventing the radioactive material from
entering the human body by any means of route (inhalation, absorption, ingestion or injection.)
- For external radiation: shielding, remote operation, restrict access, siting facilities away from generally accessible
areas.
- For internal radiation: sealed storage, handling in ventilated facilities, provision of easily cleanable surfaces to
prevent accumulation of radioactive contamination, and provision of facilities for hand-washing and possibly full
change of clothing.
1-17:
Question 8 Nurses working in a radiotherapy treatment facility use a liquid to treat patients that contains an
ionising radioactive material. The liquid is prepared by the nurses before they administer it to the patients. After
the treatment, they clean the area and equipment before disposing of any remaining liquid.

(a) Outline how nurses could be exposed to the radioactive material while carrying out this work AND, in
EACH case, identify the corresponding route of entry. (4)
- can be splashed on the skin and so it may be absorbed through the skin.
- Gases and vapour may be produced during the preparation of the dose, which may put the nurse in danger of
inhaling those gases through inhalation.
- Liquid may be splashed on the face and entering the human body through the mouth and ingested.
- If the liquid splashed to the eye, then may be absorbed through the eye tissues.
(b) Outline practical control measures to help reduce the nurses’ exposure to the radioactive material while they
are carrying out this work. (16)
For external radiation the control measures should be fall under three headings, the shielding, time, and
distance.
For internal radiation the control measures should focused in preventing the radioactive material from
entering the human body by any means of route (inhalation, absorption, ingestion or injection.)
- For external radiation: shielding, remote operation, restrict access, siting facilities away from generally accessible
areas.
- For internal radiation: sealed storage, handling in ventilated facilities, provision of easily cleanable surfaces to
prevent accumulation of radioactive contamination, and provision of facilities for hand-washing and possibly full
change of clothing.
7-16:
Question 6 A contractor has been hired to examine the quality of a weld repair to a metal pipe on a chemical
plant. It has been decided that on-site radiography, using either gamma or X-ray sources, is the only practical
option in this case.
Outline suitable measures to control the risk of exposure to radiation from the examination work. (10)
For external radiation the control measures should be fall under three headings, the shielding, time, and
distance.

- For external radiation: shielding, remote operation, restrict access, siting facilities away from generally accessible
areas.

1-16:
Question 6
7.2 Explain the effects of exposure to non-ionising radiation, its assessment and control, including for the
special case of optical lasers
1-14:
Question 7 Telecommunication broadcast towers emit radio frequency (RF) radiation.
If not properly controlled, exposure to this radiation may cause harm to RF maintenance workers and members of
the public.
(a) (i) Outline possible health effects after exposure to high levels of RF radiation. (5)
- Acute effects could be: internal heating, skin burn and tissue damage.
- Chronic health effects from low level exposure are unproven.
(ii) Describe practical control measures to help prevent exposure to harmful levels of RF radiation from
broadcast towers. (10)
To control exposure of persons working in the vicinity of equipment that generates RF radiation, the whole
system should be enclosed in a metal structure to attenuate the level of radiation outside the enclosure to less
than maximum permissible exposure limit. Isolation and lock-off equipment should be carried out before
transmitters are worked on or near. Any access doors, gates or hatches should be interlocked to prevent
activation of the transmitter when access is being gained. Additional administrative controls may also be
needed, such as a permit-to-work system to control access to transmitter arrays.

(b) Identify other workplace sources of RF radiation. (5)

- Microwaves, communication equipment, industrial equipment such as radar level transmitter,
1-18:

Question 9 A new health club is planning to install ultraviolet (UV) tanning equipment. The equipment uses UV
sources with a higher intensity than normal sunlight to accelerate tanning.
(a) Identify effects that could result from exposure to UV radiation. (4)
Health effects could be:
- Skin burns,
- Arc eye.
- Premature aging of the skin.
- Cataracts (yellowing of the lens of the eye)
- Cancer.
- Photosensitization.
- Formation of toxic contaminants.
(b) Outline control measures that could be put in place for workers and customers for the safe operation of this
equipment at the health club. (12)
For workers:
- By applying safe person strategies which include using of long sleeves overall, eye protection, and gloves ; the
overall should have appropriate collar that can cover the neck area. Another issue is using face shield the of face
visor with appropriate filter to handle the radiation.
- some administrative control also could be applied by decrease the duration time and No. of people exposed by
making frequent rest breaks and apply working at shifts. Information, instruction and training for the workers and
customers about the health risk associated with tanning machine and exposure to UV radiation.
The manufacture and supplier of the tanning equipment should be advised for the permissible UV level and the
control that should be put in place,
Purchasing equipment that produce less radiation with same effectiveness.
Enclosing of the workplace with a metal structure so the radiation can be escaped out of this area.
Restrict access for non-authorized persons. Conduct health surveillance.
(b) Identify TWO other workplaces where sources of UV radiation are found AND identify how exposure to UV
radiation occurs in EACH workplace. (4)

Arc welding, and natural sun light.

Violence:
1-18:
Question 8 Dental practitioners and receptionists often work alone and can be subject to work-related
violence/aggression from patients.
(a) Outline why dentists and receptionists may be at risk of work-related violence/aggression from patients.
(5)
- Because of the nature of their job as they providing service to the public.
- Alone working is other risk factors that can contribute in work-related violence.
- Face to face contact with the public may increase the aggressive reaction.
- Long waiting time with unclear information about the delays.
- Bad waiting environment, low level of lights, bad siting, no air conditioning.
- Falling of reading verbal and body language which may lead the problem to be escalating.
- Failure to adopt physical control such as good-design counters, fixing the loose objects, security measures and
using of panic buttons.
- Lack of training that related to deal with aggressive behavior and reading body language.

(b) Outline control measures that could help reduce work-related violence/aggression from patients. (15)
Organizational control that can include:
- Clear organizational policy on WRV.
- A zero-tolerance policy toward violence by patients and clients.
- Prosecution of the offenders who commit the criminal assault.
- Change to give the staff less face to face contact with the public.
- Use of work activity risk assessment protocols to identify and address potential problem activities.
- Vetting clients and customers (patients) and identification of potentially violent individuals.
- Development of emergency procedures, including methods for raising an alarm and the subsequent
emergency response.
- Prohibition of lone working.
- Policies and procedures to ensure minimum staffing numbers are maintained.
- Post-incident handling and the support and counseling services made available to staff after and event.
Physical controls such as:
- Change the layout of public waiting areas. Better seating, lighting, décor and more regular information
about delays can stop tension building up.
- Re-designing counters to increase width or height to give staff protection from physical contact.
- Securing loose objects, such as display stands and chairs.
- Using panic buttons, personal alarm, mobile phones, etc..
- Using security measures such as cameras, protective screens and security-coded doors to monitor staff
and prevent unauthorized access.
- Employ security staff to act as deterrent and to control assailants in the event of an incident.
1-17:
Question 5 A bus company operates a fleet of buses to provide transport for passengers in a busy city. The bus
driver is the only bus company worker on each bus. Bus drivers are sometimes subject to violence.
(a) Outline why these bus drivers may be at an increased risk of violence. (5)
(b) Outline practical control measures to help reduce the risk of violence to these bus drivers. (5)

7-16:
Question 9 Hospital nurses are at risk from work-related violence when they are required to visit patients in their
own homes.
(a) Outline a strategy that the hospital management should have in place in order to manage work-related
violence. (10)
(b) Describe a range of practical measures that the nurses can put in place to help reduce the risk of violence
when making visits to patients. (10)

1-16:
Question 2
8.4 Explain the identification and control of work-related violence/aggression with reference to relevant
standards

Stress:
7-15:
Question 6
8.1 Explain the scope, effects and causes of work-related stress
8.2 Explain the identification and control of workplace stress with reference to relevant standards

1-14:

Question 11 Managers are concerned at the increase in stress-related absence.

(a) Identify a range of information sources that can be used to assess the levels of stress experienced by their
workers. (6)
(b) Outline organizational and personal factors that can contribute to the incidence of work-related stress. (14)
IBV10: Work Environment Risk and Control
1-19: Question 2 A large manufacturing organization operates from several temporary workplaces in various
locations.
(a) Outline what should be considered when assessing the basis of the first-aid provision at the temporary
workplaces. (5)
(b) Outline the arrangements for the provision of first aid at the temporary workplaces. (5)

7-18: Question 2 (a) Outline TWO considerations to help ensure that lighting is adequate and appropriate in the
workplace. (2)
(b) Identify THREE symptoms associated with visual fatigue. (3)
Workers in a large open-plan office with windows and artificial ceiling lights carry out work using display screen
equipment for a significant part of their working day. A number of workers are complaining that the lighting in the
office is not suitable.
(c) Consider what features of the lighting in the office might have led to these complaints. (5)

7-18:
Question 9 Forestry workers are required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect them from
hazards associated with the machinery they use. This PPE includes eye and head protection, gloves and
protective clothing.
The workers are outdoors and being exposed to high levels of ultra-violet (UV), non-ionising radiation from the
sun. This situation can lead to heat-related illness and health effects from exposure to the sun.
(a) Explain the importance of maintaining heat balance in the body. (4)
(b) Identify possible effects of heat-related illness. (4)
(c) Outline control measures to help reduce the risks from exposure to heat and non-ionising radiation hazards for the
forestry workers. (12)

1-18:

Question 1 Outline what an employer should consider when carrying out an assessment to determine the first-aid provision
needed in the workplace. (10)

1-18:

Question 11 (a) Outline the purpose of a heat stress index when assessing the thermal environment. (3)
The most widely used heat stress index in industry is the wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) index.
(b) (i) Identify the measurements that need to be taken to determine the WBGT index. (3)
(ii) Outline the principle of operation of the instruments that should be used to make EACH of the measurements
identified in (b) (i). (7)
(c) A manufacturing process produces high levels of heat and steam.
Outline control measures that could help reduce heat stress among workers in this environment. (7)

7-17:

Question 10 ‘Suitable and sufficient’ lighting in a workplace is necessary to protect the health and safety of
workers.
(a) Identify adverse health effects that workers could experience as a result of unsuitable or insufficient lighting.
(4)
(b) Explain how the following features of lighting could affect the safety of worker's:
(i) low lighting levels; (2)
(ii) stroboscopic effects; (2)
(iii) colour effects. (2)
(c) Lighting surveys can assess levels of illuminance in a workplace.
Outline what could affect levels of illuminance that are measured in a workplace. (10)

1-17:

Question 9 In deep underground mines there are high temperatures and high levels of humidity. These
conditions arise naturally from the surrounding earth as well as through mining processes.
(a) Identify specific health effects associated with working in these conditions. (2)
(b) (i) Explain how the working conditions can affect the health of the workers. (3)
(ii) Explain how the working conditions can affect the safety of the workers. (1)
(c) Outline practical control measures to help reduce the risks associated with working in an environment with
high temperatures and high levels of humidity. (14)

7-16:

Question 2 Workers are exposed to high levels of heat and steam from a manufacturing process.
(a) Identify TWO parameters that could be measured when making an assessment of the thermal environment
AND, in EACH case, give the name of an instrument that can be used to measure this parameter. (2)
(b) Outline ways of reducing thermal stress among workers during the manufacturing process. (8)

1-16:

Question 3
10.3 Explain the need for welfare facilities and arrangements in fixed and temporary workplace

7-15:
Question 7
10.2 Explain the need for adequate and appropriate lighting in the workplace, units of measurement of
light and the assessment of lighting levels in the workplace

1-14:
Question 1 Workers have complained that the washing facilities in the workplace are inadequate and do not
comply with the International Labour Standards.
Outline practical arrangements that need to be in place in order for washing facilities to be considered ‘suitable
and sufficient’. (10)

Biological Agents
1-19:
Question Sailing instructors at a freshwater sports centre are at increased risk of contracting leptospirosis.
(a) Identify ill-health effects associated with leptospirosis. (2)
(b) Outline the mode of transmission of leptospira for these sailing instructors. (2)
(c) Outline control measures the sailing instructors could take to minimise the risk of contracting leptospirosis. (6)

7-18:
Question 7 A large indoor poultry farm is concerned about workers being exposed to the zoonose that causes the
disease psittacosis (also known as ornithosis).
(a) (i) Give the meaning of the term ‘zoonose’. (1)
(ii) Identify BOTH the type and name of the biological agent that causes psittacosis. (2)
(b) Explain how the workers are likely to be exposed to the biological agent that causes psittacosis. (4)
(c) Identify possible ill-health effects that could result from exposure to the biological agent that causes
psittacosis. (3)
(d) Describe control measures that could be put in place to help reduce the risk of workers contracting psittacosis.
(10)

1-18:
Question 5 Norovirus is a common cause of gastroenteritis that can spread rapidly in closed communities such as
hospitals, care homes and cruise ships.
(a) Explain how the virus is transmitted. (3)
(b) Identify the symptoms of norovirus. (3)
(c) Outline how the spread of the virus can be minimised. (4)

7-17:
Question 7 (a) Identify TWO of the main types of biological agent. (2)
(b) Outline the FOUR special properties of biological agents. (4)
(c) Zoonoses are diseases transmitted from animals to humans. Two important zoonotic diseases are psittacosis
and leptospirosis. For EACH of these:
(i) identify the animals associated with causing the disease in humans; (2)
(ii) outline the mode of transmission from animals to humans; (4)
(iii) outline methods of preventing infection of humans. (8)

1-17:
Question 2 Workers at a waste-water treatment plant are at risk of contracting
Cryptosporidiosis.
(a) Explain how these workers might contract cryptosporidiosis. (4)
(b) Identify symptoms associated with cryptosporidiosis. (2)
(c) Outline specific control measures that these workers should use
to help reduce the risk of contracting cryptosporidiosis. (4)

7-16:
Question 10 A worker at a large organisation has recently been diagnosed with the bacterial infection
Legionnaire’s disease.
(a) Outline the signs and symptoms of Legionnaire’s disease. (4)
(b) Outline factors that may have contributed to the worker being exposed to the bacterium and contracting the
disease. (8)
(c) Outline practical measures that the organization should put in place to help reduce the risk of future
outbreaks. (8)

1-16:
Question 4
5.2 Explain the assessment and control of risk from exposure to biological agents at work
When assessment the risk from exposure to biological agent whether it is incidental or deliberated, some factors
should be considered:
- The risk group/Category of the agent: WHO classifies the biological agent to groups based of some
factors, the ability to cause a human disease, whether they considered a health hazard to the worker, the
likelihood that disease to spread in the community, and the availability of local prophylaxis and treatment?
- Pathogenicity and infectious dose: The likelihood of disease is influenced by many factors, one of which is
the virulence of the biological agent; another factor is personal susceptibility.
- Likelihood and nature of the resultant disease: Some biological agent has the ability to cause minor
disease while others can cause serious or even fatal disease.
- Modes of transmission: Some biological agents transmitted in blood and other body fluids, such as
hepatitis B virus and HIV. Some are transmitted by droplet inhalation, such as legionella.
- Stability of the agent in the environment.
- Concentration and amounts: when carrying out a risk assessment on a laboratory environment, it is
possible to determine the quantity of biological agent which is likely to be present. Outside of the
laboratory such control is not possible.
- Presence of suitable host.
- Available data.
- Nature of activity: There are many types of work where exposure to a biological agent is possible but not
certain. In other instances, work is almost certain to involve exposure to a particular agent.
- Local availability of prophylaxis and treatment.
For the control of risk from exposure to biological agents:
- Use of biological safety cabinets BSCs.
- Sharp control.
- Immunization/Vaccination.
- Decontamination and Disinfection.
- Effluent and Waste Disposal.
- Personal Hygiene Measures.
- Personal Protective Equipment PPE.

1-14:
Question 8 (a) Identify the typical signs AND symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease. (5)
- High fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, dry cough and difficulty with breathing, some patients develop
diarrhea or vomiting and about half become confused and delirious.
(b) Outline the conditions under which legionella bacteria may grow. (3)
- Water temperature in the range of 20-45 favors the growth of legionella.
- The presence of sediments and sludge which may serve as nutrient for legionella.
- Commonly encountered organisms in water system and bacteria may serve as additional nutrients source for
legionella.
- Incorporation of legionella in slime on surface in contact with water may protect it from the concentration of
biocides which may kill it.
- Laboratory test which is need about seven days to confirm the presence of legionella.

(c) Outline the means of controlling the growth of legionella bacteria. (12)

Biological Monitoring:
1-19
7-17
1-14
: Question 6 (a) Outline what is meant by the term ‘biological monitoring’. (2)
- is a technique that complements air monitoring as a method of measuring and evaluating the risk to health
exposure to chemical agents.
- The measurement of a substance or its metabolite (substance formed when the body converts the chemical) in a
biological fluid (breath, urine or blood).
(b) Outline circumstances in which biological monitoring may be appropriate. (4)
- Absorption is likely to be through skin or ingestion rather than inhalation, therefore air monitoring is not a
complete indicator of uptake.
- There is a valid laboratory method available for the detection of the chemical or its metabolites in the body.
- Three are reference values available for the interpretation of the result obtained.
- PPE is used as a significant control; failure to wear PPE correctly would not be shown by air monitoring, but it
would be indicated by biological monitoring.

(c) Outline difficulties an employer must overcome when introducing a programme of biological monitoring. (4)
- Sampling may require blood to be taken which would require a physician or nurse.
- Measurements relate to individuals, so confidentiality and data protection issues need to be addressed.
- As with all standards, biological monitoring standards aim to protect the majority of the exposed population. An
individual may suffer adverse changes at concentration below the published standards.
- It will be difficult to take samples in a large manufacturing scheme due to the quantity and No. of people.

1-16:
Question 8
4.1 Explain occupational exposure limits for airborne harmful substances, the basis upon which they are
established, and their application to the workplace
4.2 Outline the strategies, methods and equipment for the sampling and measurement of airborne harmful
substances
11.3 Outline the management of occupational health (including the practical and legal aspects)

7-15:
Question 4
4.3 Outline the principles of biological monitoring

Mental Ill health:

1-19: Question 5 The UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) identifies six stress Management Standards, one of
which is Change. The requirement of this standard is that ‘Employees indicate that the organisation engages them
frequently when undergoing an organisational change’.
(a) An organisation is about to undergo a significant change.
Outline steps the organisation could take to help reduce the risk of workers suffering from work-related stress as
a result of this change. (6)
(b) Identify TWO other HSE stress Management Standards AND give the requirement for EACH. (4)

7-18: Question 4 (a) Give the meaning of ‘work-related stress’. (1)

(b) Identify potential signs that a worker could be stressed. (3)
(c) Outline control measures that could help manage work-related stress in an organisation. (6)

7-17:
Question 5 An organisation operates a call centre to handle customer service enquiries. The call centre operates
between 08:00 and 20:00, seven days a week.
Outline the potential causes of stress to call centre workers for EACH of the UK Health and Safety Executive’s
(HSE’s) Management Standards below:
(a) demands; (4)
(b) support; (2)
(c) relationships. (4)

Musculoskeletal Risk and Control:

1-19: Question 7 Workers in a busy restaurant frequently use hand-held trays to carry plates of food and drinks
from the kitchen to the customers’ tables. These hand-held trays can be heavy and unstable.
There are regular incidents where workers drop the trays.
To help reduce these incidents, the employer has decided to introduce non-powered trollies, on wheels, that will
be used by the restaurant workers to transport their customers’ food and drink orders.
(a) Outline what the employer should consider when selecting suitable non-powered trollies for this task. (14)
(b) Comment on how this change could affect the manual handling risks to the workers. (3)
(c) Comment on how this change could affect other risks to the workers and to customers’ safety and health. (3)

7-18: Question 1 Window cleaners frequently use extending ladders. They unload the ladders from the roof of
their van, carry them to position and extend them to reach higher windows. When they have cleaned the windows,
they load the ladders back on to the roof of the van before moving to the next location.
(a) Outline manual handling risk factors when using these ladders. (7)
You are not required to include any risks relating to working at height in your answer.
(b) The employer wants workers to store the ladders inside the van and not on the roof.
Comment on how this change could affect the manual handling risks. (2)
(c) Outline ONE change in working practice that could eliminate the manual handling risks from using extending
ladders for the window cleaners. (1)

1-18:
Question 7 The Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE’s) manual handling assessment charts (MAC) is a tool that
can be used to determine manual handling risks of various types of activity, including lifting operations. The MAC
tool assigns numerical scores to a range of risk factors.
(a) (i) Identify FIVE risk factors in the MAC tool that should be considered for a lifting operation carried out by an
individual. (5)
(ii) For EACH of the risk factors identified in (a) (i), describe how the numerical scores vary as the lifting operation
changes. (5)
Reference to the exact numerical scores is not required.
(b) Explain why using the MAC tool alone may not result in a fully ‘suitable and sufficient’ risk assessment. (5)
An internet-based delivery organisation operates a large warehouse where workers pick loads weighing between
2kg and 20kg. The workers carry these loads to an area where the items are stacked on to pallets.
The organisation decides to use the HSE’s variable manual handling assessment chart (V-MAC) to assess the
manual handling risks to its workers, who work 8-hour shifts.
(c) Outline why the V-MAC tool is suitable in this scenario. (4)
Delivery drivers use pallet trucks to load the stacked pallets on to delivery vehicles.
(d) Comment on the use of the V-MAC tool in this situation. (1)

7-17:
Question 1 Outline what should be considered when selecting workplace seating to minimise ergonomic risks to
workers. (10)

1-17:
Question 10 Farmers, veterinary workers and sheep shearers often need to manually handle live animals such
as sheep, pigs or goats as part of their work. In these situations the load is the live animal.
(a) Describe factors associated with the load that increase the risk of these manual handling activities. (4)
(b) Outline a range of other factors that should be considered when carrying out manual handling risk
assessments in these situations. (6)
(c) Outline practical control measures that could be used in these situations to help reduce the risk of a manual
handling injury. (10)

7-16:
Question 4 An organisation has decided to close its offices and to allow its 30 workers to work from home. The
organisation will provide workers with their own laptop (portable computer) for use at home and on their daily
visits to customers.
Outline factors that should be considered in order to minimise ergonomic risks in the selection and use of these
laptops. (10)

1-16:
Question 9
9.2 Explain the assessment and control of risks from repetitive activities, manual handling and poor
posture

7-15:
Question 2
9.2 Explain the assessment and control of risks from repetitive activities, manual handling and poor
posture

1-14:
Question 3 Outline issues that need to be considered when selecting adequate seating to minimise the
ergonomic risk to workers. (10)

Hazardous Substance:
Lead:
1-19: Question 8 Building maintenance workers use hot and cold methods to strip old paint containing lead from
doors and windows. This produces dust, fume and vapour containing lead.
(a) Identify the specific health effects to the workers relating to working with lead. (4)
(b) Outline the requirements for health surveillance for workers who work with lead. (4)
(c) Workers have a general duty to comply with the health and safety measures put in place by their employers.
Outline what the workers should do to protect their health. (12)

Asbestos:
1-18:
Question 6 A survey of an industrial building has revealed extensive use of asbestos material.
(a) Identify where asbestos might have been used in the building. (2)
(b) Outline control measures that could help protect workers in the industrial building from exposure to asbestos.
(8)

1-16:
Question 1
1.4 Explain the health effects of chemicals used in the workplace
2.3 Explain the specific requirements for asbestos

Hardwood Dust:
1-17:
Question 7 Workers in carpentry workshops and sawmills may be exposed to hardwood dust.
(a) Outline the risks to health from hardwood dust. (5)
(b) Identify types of respiratory protective equipment (RPE) that could be used by the workers. (3)
(c) Other than providing RPE, outline control measures that should be considered in order to protect those who
are exposed to hardwood dust. (12)

Silica Dust:
1-14:
Question 5 Workers cutting and finishing stone are exposed to silica dust.
Outline factors to be considered when carrying out a ‘suitable and sufficient’ assessment of the risks from
exposure to silica dust. (10)

7-18: Question 5 A worker in a furniture manufacturing workshop spends most of their time machine-sanding
hardwood with a hand-held power sander.
Outline control measures to help protect the worker and their colleagues from the risks of exposure to hardwood
dust. (10)

7-18: Question 6 Hazardous substances entering the body through the skin can cause systemic effects.
(a) Describe the structure of the skin. (6)
Marks will not be awarded for diagrams. A description in words is required.
(b) Explain how a hazardous substance could enter the body through the skin and cause a systemic effect. (4)

7-18:
Question 11 In a chemical process workers are exposed to two organic liquids. Table 1 below shows the average
personal exposure levels to each of the organic liquids for one worker measured over an 8-hour day.

Task Duration of task Exposure to Exposure to

undertaken by Liquid A (ppm) Liquid B (ppm)
employee
Measuring out 30 minutes 280 140
liquid
Adding liquid to 1 hour 110 80
the mixing
vessel
Supervision of 2 hours 150 50
mixing
Transfer of 3 hours 150 50
mixture to
containers
Table
Assume exposure is zero at all other times.

Table 2:

Liquid A Liquid B

8-hour time-weighted 125 ppm 50 ppm

average exposure of the
one worker

(a) Using the information in Table 1, demonstrate that the 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA)
exposures of the worker to BOTH Liquid A and Liquid B are as shown in Table 2. (8)
Your answer should include detailed working to show how the exposure is calculated.
The exposure limits for the two liquids are as follows:

Table 3:

Liquid Exposure limit

Long-term exposure limit (8-hour TWA limit Short-term exposure limit (15-minute reference
reference period) period)
A 200 250
B 200 300

(b) Outline what actions the employer might need to take to control exposure to Liquid A, which
is an essential component of the chemical process. (7)
(c) Comment on the exposure to Liquid B. (1)
(d) There is a concern that exposure to a mixture of these two liquids might increase the risk to
workers.
Consider why this might be a valid concern. (4)

7-17:
(a) Outline what is meant by inhalable dust. (2)
(b) Outline the equipment and method required for personal sampling of inhalable rubber dust.
(7)
(c) Calculate the 8-hour TWA exposure to the process operators from BOTH the rubber process
dust and the rubber fume. (6)
(d) Comment on the significance of your answers calculated in part (c) in terms of exposure and
possible future action. (5)

1-17:
Question 3 The hazardous substance called machine-made mineral fibre (MMMF) has a legally
binding occupational exposure limit (OEL) listed in standards. Unusually, there are two OELs.
The limit is expressed both as fibre/ml and also as mg/m3:
2 fibre/ml 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA);
5 mg/m3 8-hour TWA).
Two personal monitoring results, obtained using two different measuring techniques for an
operative working with MMMF, are provided below:

(a) Calculate the average concentration of MMMF to which the Operative is exposed for EACH
of the two samples shown. (6)
You must show your working.
(b) Comment on the significance of the operative’s exposure in terms of future action required to
adequately control exposure. (4)
Assume the exposure in the time monitored is representative of exposure during the full 8-hour
shift

7-16:
Question 1 An organization is considering the substitution of a solvent that it currently uses for
one that is thought to be more effective.
Outline factors that should be considered before a decision is taken to make the change. (10)

1. A comparison to be made between the risks from the proposed substance with those of the
existing one.
2. Much of this information might be gained from the manufacturers’ safety data sheets for both
substances.
3. Specific information on the proposed substance would relate to:
􀂃 The physical form of the substance (eg whether aerosol or liquid)
􀂃 The possible routes of entry of the substance into the body
􀂃 Its flammability and volatility
􀂃 Its short and long term health effects
􀂃 Applicable exposure limits such as WELs
􀂃 The quantity of the substance that would be used
􀂃 The number of persons likely to be exposed
􀂃 The level and frequency of their exposure
􀂃 Personal susceptibilities of those involved with particular reference to workers who might
be especially vulnerable such as young persons or workers with a liver or heart condition
􀂃 Additional control measures that might be required
􀂃 Storage arrangements for the solvent particularly in the light of its potential flammability
and combustibility
􀂃 The procedures that might have to be introduced for the disposal of the substance and
for dealing with any emergency
􀂃 Financial issues such as the cost of providing adequate protection such as respirators
and gloves

7-16:
Question 8 In a chemical process, workers use a mixture composed of several liquid
substances. One of the components, designated DTJH, is classified as a sensitizer under the
GHS system. Table 1 below shows the average personal exposure levels to DTJH for one worker
measured over an 8- hour day and Table 2 shows the exposure limits for DTJH.

(a) Outline the process of hazard classification under the GHS system. (2)
Hazard classification under the GHS system involves a two-step process. Firstly relevant
hazard data is identified and reviewed. This data is either already available or from further
tests that are commissioned. In both cases it is necessary to use data from standard test
 methods. This data is then compared to GHS classification criteria for the various hazard
categories.
(b) Outline what is meant by ‘sensitiser’ under the GHS system. (4)
A sensitiser causes an allergic response - which can be either skin or respiratory.
Sensitisation occurs in two phases, the initial contact with the sensitiser may produce
only mild effects but subsequent exposure of even small amounts may produce an
extreme reaction.
(c) Using the information in Table 1, calculate the 8-hour timeweighted average (TWA) exposure
of the worker to DTJH. (6)
Your answer should include detailed working to show that you understand how the exposure is
determined.
(d) Using relevant information from Tables 1 and 2, explain what actions might be required by
the employer to control exposure. (8)

1-16:
Question 7
1.4 Explain the health effects of chemicals used in the workplace
- Acute Toxicity, skin corrosion and irritation, serious eye damage and eye irritation, respiratory or
skin sensitisation, germ cell mutagenicity, carcinogenicity and reproductive toxicity.
2.1 Outline the factors to consider when assessing risks from chemicals which are
hazardous to health
- Type and level of exposure.
- Hazardous properties of the substance.
- Duration and frequency of exposure.
- Number of people exposed.
- Effects of mixtures.
- Unusual activities and emergencies.
- Relevant occupational exposure limits.
- Effectiveness of existing controls.
- Results of air monitoring and health surveillance.
- Individual susceptibility.

2.2 Explain elimination of risk or control measures for chemicals which are hazardous to
health

7-15:
Question 1
1.1 Outline the principles of control of chemicals

- classifying chemicals (manufactured) in accordance with national standards.

- making sure the chemicals (raw materials) use are properly labeled and have safety data sheet
available.
- keeping records of the chemical used and make this information available for workers.
- Assessing exposure of workers.
- Ensuring that exposure of workers is below the national exposure limits and that expsore of
workers is monitored if applicable.
- use of various control approaches such as elimination, substitution, engineering controls,
personal hygiene and PPE.
7-15:
Question 8
1.3 Describe the main effects and routes of attack of chemicals on the human body
1.4 Explain the health effects of chemicals used in the workplace
2.2 Explain elimination of risk or control measures for chemicals which are hazardous to
health

1-14:
Question 2 Construction workers regularly use cement. Several of the long-term workers and
one of the new recruits have complained about red and sore skin on their hands.
(a) Explain possible reasons for the symptoms that they are experiencing. (6)
(b) Outline control measures that could be used to minimize these symptoms. (4)

Epidemiology:
1-19: Question 9 Human epidemiology and animal studies are methods that can be used to
investigate whether a substance is carcinogenic.
(a) (i) Explain what is meant by the term ‘carcinogen’. (2)
(ii) Outline the advantages and disadvantages of human epidemiology. (5)
(iii) Outline the advantages and disadvantages of animal studies. (5)
(b) Outline the control measures that should be in place in a workplace where a carcinogenic
substance is used. (8)

Personal Protective Equipment:

Jan 2010 National

A welder undertakes work in an open plan workshop.

Outline the factors to be considered when selecting suitable Respiratory Protective Equipment for this
work. (10)

Factors that should be considered when selecting respiratory protective equipment for the welding work
described include:

1. The type, duration and frequency of the work and its position in the workplace;

2. The fume control measures currently in place such as general or local exhaust ventilation;

3. The health hazard category of the welding fume for example whether toxic or irritant;
 4. The level of protection (protection factor) required for each substance based on considerations
such as the amount of the substance,

5. The volatility of the welding consumables,

6. The concentration and particle size and the relevant workplace exposure limits (WELs);

7. The choice of the equipment in relation to the protection factor whether half face, full face or
forced air breathing apparatus;

8. The choice of the correct filter type based on the determined protection factor;

9. Task related factors such as the work rate and wear time,

10. The presence of humidity, the need for mobility and communication and the amount of physical
effort and degree of movement required to carry out the task;

11. The fit and comfort of the equipment taking into account facial hair and the need to wear
spectacles;

12. The compatibility of the equipment with other personal protective equipment such as eye, head
or hearing protection;

13. The heat resistant properties of the equipment;

14. The battery life of specified types of equipment;

15. The cost of the equipment and the amount of training and maintenance required for its use;

16. The manufacture of the equipment to recognized standards

17. Any relevant medical conditions of the potential user such as heart disease, asthma or
claustrophobia.

July 2011 International

When respiratory protective equipment is in use, it may not provide the level of protection stated by the
manufacturer.

Outline the possible reasons for this. (10)

A range of reasons such as:

1. An inadequate initial assessment which did not take into account work rate, duration of wear
required and the anticipated level of contamination;

2. A poor air flow or a loss of battery power;

3. The fitting of incorrect cartridges or a failure to replace them before saturation;

4. Poorly fitting equipment or incompatible with other personal protective equipment being worn;

5. The presence of other contaminants resulting in a decrease in saturation time;

6. Inadequate training in its use and particularly in the care that should be taken in its removal;

7. Poor maintenance and inadequate storage resulting in the face piece being left exposed;

8. Damage occurring during use and inadequate monitoring and supervision to ensure the equipment
was always used when required

9. The fact that the equipment might not have been manufactured to the appropriate standards.

7-18:

Question 8 (a) Explain when it might be necessary to use respiratory protective equipment
(RPE) as a control measure to help reduce exposure to a hazardous substance. (6)
Workers carrying out a task involving the corrosive vapour of ammonia have been provided with
RPE to protect them from exposure to ammonia by inhalation. The employer used the following
information to determine the selection of the RPE:

Concentration of ammonia vapour 280 ppm

in the workplace
Exposure limit for ammonia is 35 ppm (15-min STEL)
Assigned protection factor for 20
selected RPE

(b) Explain how the employer can use this information to determine if the choice of RPE is
appropriate. (4)
(c) Outline what an employer should consider when selecting RPE for this particular task. (10)

1-18:
Question 3 Workers in a chemical plant are provided with gloves to protect against the harmful
effects of the chemicals, but a significant number of workers are reporting hand and lower arm
skin complaints.
Outline possible reasons why these skin complaints may be occurring even though workers are
provided with gloves. (10)

7-17:
Question 2 Workers in chemical manufacturing plant need personal protective equipment (PPE)
to protect their eyes and faces when handling open containers of highly corrosive liquids.
(a) Describe what should be considered when selecting the PPE for this task. (6)
(b) Outline arrangements that the chemical manufacturer should put in place when the selected
PPE is in use. (4)

1-17:
Question 1 Workers in a chemical plant are provided with gloves to protect against the possible
effects of the chemicals. In recent months, there has been an increase in the number of hand and
lower arm skin complaints among the workers.
Outline possible reasons for this increase in skin complaints. (10)
1-16:
Question 11
3.2 Explain the various types of personal protective equipment (PPE) available for use with
hazardous chemicals, their effectiveness, and the factors to consider in their selection

1-14:
Question 9 (a) Explain the circumstances when it may be necessary to use respiratory
protective equipment (RPE) as a control measure to reduce exposure to a hazardous substance.
(6)
Workers carrying out a short duration task involving a corrosive vapour of ammonia have been
provided with RPE to protect them from inhalation of the corrosive vapour. The employer used
the following information To determine the selection of the RPE.

Concentration of ammonia vapours in the workplace 280ppm

Occupational exposure limit for ammonia 35ppm (15 min STEL)
Assigned protection value for selected RPE APF= 20

(b) Explain how the employer can use this information to determine if the choice of RPE is
appropriate. (4)
(c) Outline other factors that the employer should consider when selecting RPE for use in this
particular task. (10)