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OSHA 15-Hr Disaster Site Worker study materials
OSHA 15-Hr Disaster Site Worker study resources

OSHA 15-Hr Disaster Site Worker practice questions

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Question 1Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

At a disaster site, which document should a worker consult first to learn the site-specific hazards, control measures, and required PPE before beginning assigned tasks?

  1. The local building permit application
  2. The site-specific safety and health plan Correct answer.
  3. The project payroll schedule
  4. The equipment manufacturer's warranty card

Explanation

A site-specific safety and health plan identifies the hazards present at that site and describes the controls, PPE, and emergency procedures workers must follow. Reviewing it before starting work is a core element of disaster site worker awareness and required hazard communication.

Question 2Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

A worker at a disaster site develops headache, dizziness, and confusion while working near a fuel-powered generator in a partially enclosed area. Which hazard should be suspected first?

  1. Heat rash
  2. Carbon monoxide exposure Correct answer.
  3. Contact dermatitis
  4. Noise-induced hearing loss

Explanation

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas produced by combustion equipment such as generators, and early symptoms include headache, dizziness, and confusion. Enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces raise the risk of dangerous accumulation.

Question 3Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

What is the primary purpose of a personal protective equipment hazard assessment at a disaster site?

  1. To replace engineering and administrative controls
  2. To determine which PPE is needed for each task and hazard Correct answer.
  3. To certify that the site has no remaining hazards
  4. To document employee attendance at safety meetings

Explanation

A hazard assessment identifies hazards so the employer can select appropriate PPE for each task. PPE is the last line of defense and supplements, rather than replaces, engineering and work practice controls.

Question 4Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

Before entering a collapsed structure at a disaster site, a worker should confirm which of the following about the atmosphere?

  1. That the structure was recently painted
  2. That a coworker entered earlier without incident
  3. That it has been tested and characterized for oxygen, flammables, and toxics Correct answer.
  4. That it smells normal and appears clear

Explanation

Confined and enclosed spaces at disaster sites may contain oxygen deficiency, flammable gases, or toxic contaminants that cannot be detected by smell or sight. Atmospheric testing and characterization must precede entry.

Question 5Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

Which practice best protects a worker from exposure to bloodborne pathogens while providing first aid at a disaster site?

  1. Wearing disposable gloves and washing hands after contact Correct answer.
  2. Storing used gloves in a pocket for later use
  3. Handling sharps with bare hands to speed treatment
  4. Rinsing contaminated gloves and reusing them

Explanation

Bloodborne pathogen precautions require barrier protection such as disposable gloves and hand hygiene after contact. Gloves are single-use and must be removed and discarded properly to prevent contamination.

Question 6Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

A worker must lift debris repeatedly during recovery operations. Which approach reflects correct manual material handling for reducing musculoskeletal injury risk?

  1. Bend at the waist with straight legs to reach low objects
  2. Twist the torso while lifting to change direction quickly
  3. Keep the load close to the body and lift with the legs Correct answer.
  4. Carry loads above shoulder height whenever possible

Explanation

Keeping the load close to the body and using the leg muscles reduces spinal loading during lifting. Twisting while lifting and bending at the waist increase the risk of back injury.

Question 7Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

When should a worker at a disaster site report a near-miss, such as a falling object that struck no one?

  1. Only at the end of the project
  2. Never, because no injury resulted
  3. Only if property damage occurred
  4. Promptly, so the hazard can be corrected before someone is injured Correct answer.

Explanation

Near-misses reveal uncontrolled hazards and should be reported promptly so controls can be implemented before an injury occurs. Reporting is a recognized element of an effective safety and health program.

Question 8Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

Which statement correctly describes the hazard communication responsibilities of an employer at a disaster site where chemicals are present?

  1. Keep safety data sheets locked away to prevent misuse
  2. Ensure containers are labeled and safety data sheets are accessible to workers Correct answer.
  3. Provide labels only for chemicals stored indoors
  4. Rely on workers to identify chemicals by smell

Explanation

Hazard communication requires that containers be labeled and that safety data sheets be readily accessible to workers exposed to hazardous chemicals. Workers must be trained to understand these hazards.

Question 9Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

A worker is assigned to clear debris in an area where a utility has been marked but the exact depth of buried lines is unknown. What is the most appropriate action?

  1. Begin digging and stop only if sparks appear
  2. Proceed with powered excavation to save time
  3. Use hand tools and follow the utility locate and excavation procedures Correct answer.
  4. Assume the markings are complete and dig freely

Explanation

When buried utilities are present and their location is uncertain, workers should use hand tools and follow established locate and excavation procedures. Powered excavation near unverified utilities risks striking energized or pressurized lines.

Question 10Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

During disaster recovery, a worker notices a crack widening in a partially collapsed wall near the work area. What is the correct immediate response?

  1. Continue working while monitoring the crack
  2. Place a brace against the wall and keep working
  3. Ask a coworker to stand watch while work continues
  4. Stop work, evacuate the area, and notify the supervisor Correct answer.

Explanation

A widening crack indicates possible structural instability, which is an imminent danger. The correct response is to stop work, move people away, and notify supervision so the structure can be evaluated.

Question 11Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

Which factor most directly determines the level of respiratory protection needed for a disaster site task?

  1. The distance from the site entrance
  2. The color of the respirator cartridge
  3. The results of exposure monitoring and the contaminant's properties Correct answer.
  4. The number of workers on the shift

Explanation

Respirator selection depends on the identified contaminant, its concentration from exposure monitoring, and the assigned protection factor of the respirator. Color coding identifies cartridge type but does not set the protection level needed.

Question 12Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

A worker must enter a permit-required confined space at a disaster site. Which condition must be met before entry is authorized?

  1. The space is ventilated for five minutes with no testing
  2. The entrant agrees to work alone without an attendant
  3. An entry permit is issued and attendant and rescue provisions are in place Correct answer.
  4. The space has been entered before without a permit

Explanation

Permit-required confined space entry requires an entry permit, pre-entry testing, an attendant, and adequate rescue provisions. These controls address atmospheric, engulfment, and entrapment hazards.

Question 13Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

At a disaster site, a generator is powering equipment on wet ground. Which practice best reduces the risk of electrical shock?

  1. Use ground-fault circuit interrupter protection and inspect cords for damage Correct answer.
  2. Bypass the grounding pin to fit an older receptacle
  3. Run cords through standing water to keep them cool
  4. Use cords with repaired splices wrapped in tape

Explanation

GFCI protection interrupts current when a ground fault occurs, and inspecting cords prevents damaged insulation from energizing water or equipment. Wet conditions greatly increase shock severity.

Question 14Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

Which control measure should be implemented first to protect workers from excessive noise at a disaster site?

  1. Issue hearing protection and rely on it alone
  2. Reduce noise at the source through engineering controls Correct answer.
  3. Rotate workers so each receives less exposure
  4. Post a sign warning of high noise levels

Explanation

The hierarchy of controls places engineering controls, such as quieter equipment or sound barriers, ahead of administrative controls and PPE. Hearing protection is important but is the last line of defense.

Question 15Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

A worker is exposed to extreme heat while wearing impermeable protective clothing during debris removal. Which combination of controls best prevents heat illness?

  1. Wearing additional layers to absorb sweat
  2. Drinking fluids only after symptoms appear
  3. Avoiding breaks to finish work before the hottest part of the day
  4. Work-rest cycles, hydration, acclimatization, and monitoring for symptoms Correct answer.

Explanation

Heat illness prevention combines scheduled rest, fluid replacement, acclimatization, and symptom monitoring. Impermeable clothing blocks evaporative cooling, so these controls are especially critical.

Question 16Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

Which statement best describes the role of an incident command system at a multi-agency disaster site?

  1. It replaces each agency's safety program with a single federal program
  2. It establishes a common structure for command, control, and coordination among responding organizations Correct answer.
  3. It assigns all field tasks to a single agency
  4. It eliminates the need for a site-specific safety plan

Explanation

An incident command system provides a standardized hierarchy and common terminology so multiple agencies can coordinate command, planning, logistics, and safety functions. It does not eliminate agency safety obligations or site-specific plans.

Question 17Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

A worker finds an unlabeled container of liquid in a damaged building. What is the safest course of action?

  1. Smell the liquid to identify it
  2. Use it as a cleaning solvent without identification
  3. Treat it as hazardous, avoid contact, and notify the supervisor for identification Correct answer.
  4. Pour it into a storm drain to remove it

Explanation

Unlabeled containers must be treated as hazardous until identified, because their contents and hazards are unknown. Only trained personnel should identify and handle unknown chemicals.

Question 18Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

Which sign or symptom suggests that a worker may be experiencing heat stroke rather than heat exhaustion?

  1. Confusion or altered mental status with hot skin Correct answer.
  2. Mild thirst and fatigue
  3. Muscle cramps relieved by rest
  4. Profuse sweating with cool, clammy skin

Explanation

Heat stroke involves central nervous system dysfunction such as confusion or unconsciousness and is a medical emergency requiring immediate cooling and emergency care. Heat exhaustion typically presents with heavy sweating and weakness without altered mental status.

Question 19Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

A worker is using a chainsaw to cut fallen trees after a storm. Which combination of hazards is most directly associated with this task?

  1. Silica dust and lead fume
  2. Ionizing radiation and mercury vapor
  3. Oxygen deficiency and flammable gas
  4. Kickback, cut injuries, and noise exposure Correct answer.

Explanation

Chainsaw operation exposes workers to kickback, laceration hazards from the chain, and high noise levels, requiring chaps, eye and face protection, hearing protection, and trained operation. The other listed hazards are associated with different disaster tasks.

Question 20Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

Which action best protects a worker from silica exposure while cutting concrete during disaster demolition?

  1. Cut dry and rely on a dust mask alone
  2. Cut faster to reduce total exposure time
  3. Work downwind so dust blows away from the blade
  4. Use wet cutting methods and wear appropriate respiratory protection Correct answer.

Explanation

Wet cutting suppresses respirable crystalline silica at the source, and respiratory protection addresses residual exposure. Engineering controls are preferred, with respirators used as part of a complete protection program.

Question 21Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

A worker is directed to enter an area where a hazardous material release has not been characterized. Which response is most consistent with disaster site worker awareness training?

  1. Refuse entry until the area is characterized and appropriate controls are established Correct answer.
  2. Enter only if a coworker accompanies you without protective equipment
  3. Enter quickly to complete the task before conditions worsen
  4. Enter with a cloth face covering as the only protection

Explanation

Untrained workers must not enter uncharacterized hazardous material release areas. Workers have the right to refuse unsafe work, and entry requires hazard characterization, trained responders, and appropriate protective equipment.

Question 22Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

During a disaster response, a worker's supervisor asks the worker to operate a piece of heavy equipment for which the worker has no training. What is the most appropriate action?

  1. Ask a coworker to demonstrate once and then operate it
  2. Operate the equipment slowly to reduce the risk
  3. Operate the equipment only during daylight hours
  4. Decline the assignment and explain that training and authorization are required Correct answer.

Explanation

Only trained and authorized workers may operate heavy equipment, because unqualified operation endangers the operator and nearby workers. Declining and explaining the requirement is the correct response.

Question 23Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

A worker at a disaster site is exposed to a chemical that has a short-term exposure limit. Which interpretation of that limit is correct?

  1. It is the concentration at which no odor is detectable
  2. It is a maximum concentration for a brief exposure period that must not be exceeded Correct answer.
  3. It is an average concentration allowed over an eight-hour shift
  4. It is the concentration at which the chemical becomes flammable

Explanation

A short-term exposure limit caps the concentration for a brief period, typically fifteen minutes, to prevent acute effects. It is distinct from an eight-hour time-weighted average permissible exposure limit.

Question 24Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

A worker is tasked with inspecting a trench for a utility repair after a disaster. Which condition indicates that the trench requires protective systems before entry?

  1. The trench has been inspected and marked safe by a competent person
  2. The trench has a ladder for access and egress
  3. The trench is shallow and the soil is solid rock
  4. The trench walls are vertical and the soil is fissured and unstable Correct answer.

Explanation

Vertical walls in fissured, unstable soil indicate a high risk of cave-in, requiring a protective system such as sloping, shoring, or shielding. A competent person must determine the protective system based on soil and depth.

Question 25Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

Which statement best describes the relationship between the general duty clause and specific OSHA standards at a disaster site?

  1. The general duty clause overrides all specific standards
  2. The general duty clause applies only to construction employers
  3. The general duty clause applies where no specific standard addresses a recognized hazard Correct answer.
  4. The general duty clause eliminates the need for hazard assessments

Explanation

The general duty clause requires employers to provide a workplace free from recognized serious hazards when no specific standard applies. Specific standards govern where they exist, and hazard assessments remain necessary.

Question 26Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

At a disaster site, a worker must travel through a building whose floors and stairways were damaged by the event. Which practice best protects the worker from structural collapse hazards during this movement?

  1. Use designated safe routes identified by a structural evaluation and stay out of cordoned areas Correct answer.
  2. Travel alone so that one person's weight is not concentrated on a damaged floor
  3. Test questionable floors by stepping on them to confirm they hold weight
  4. Move quickly through damaged corridors and rely on the fastest available path

Explanation

Damaged structures must be evaluated by a competent person, and access should be limited to routes and areas that have been declared safe. Cordoned or posted areas indicate known collapse or fall hazards and must be respected. Workers should never probe uncertain surfaces with body weight or travel unescorted in unstable buildings.

Question 27Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

Which statement accurately describes the purpose of the site safety and health plan at a disaster response worksite?

  1. It is a payroll record that lists worker certifications and hours worked
  2. It replaces the need for hazard assessments once the plan has been written
  3. It documents the site-specific hazards, controls, and emergency procedures that govern work at that site Correct answer.
  4. It is prepared only after an injury occurs so that the response can be reviewed

Explanation

A site safety and health plan identifies the hazards expected at a specific disaster site and the controls, training, and emergency arrangements that address them. It is a working document that guides daily operations and is updated as conditions change. It does not substitute for ongoing hazard assessment.

Question 28Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

A responder is working near heavy excavators removing rubble. Which measure most directly reduces the risk of struck-by and caught-between injuries from that equipment?

  1. Having workers wear high-visibility vests without any designated travel paths
  2. Relying on the machine's backup alarm to warn everyone in the area
  3. Posting a sign at the site entrance warning of heavy equipment
  4. Establishing exclusion zones and requiring the operator to make eye contact before workers approach Correct answer.

Explanation

Struck-by incidents near heavy equipment are controlled by keeping workers out of the machine's swing and travel areas and by coordinated communication with the operator. Exclusion zones and confirmed operator acknowledgment prevent workers from entering blind spots. Alarms and vests are useful aids but do not by themselves keep people out of the danger area.

Question 29Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

After a flood, workers are cleaning a building where mold growth is visible on wallboard. Which work practice most appropriately addresses the mold hazard during cleanup?

  1. Minimize dust generation, use appropriate respiratory protection, and discard porous materials that cannot be cleaned Correct answer.
  2. Open all windows and rely on natural ventilation as the only control
  3. Seal the moldy materials in place and continue work without respiratory protection
  4. Dry-sweep the moldy surfaces so the material can be collected quickly

Explanation

Mold cleanup requires controlling dust and spores, protecting the respiratory tract, and removing porous materials that cannot be effectively cleaned. Wet methods and containment limit airborne spores. Dry sweeping and relying on open windows alone spread contamination and do not protect the worker.

Question 30Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

Which action best protects disaster workers from bloodborne pathogen exposure while assisting injured survivors?

  1. Use appropriate gloves and other barriers and follow exposure control procedures when contact with blood is possible Correct answer.
  2. Reuse disposable gloves after shaking them out and inspecting them
  3. Wear cotton work gloves as the primary barrier against blood contact
  4. Rinse contaminated hands with hand sanitizer instead of washing with soap and water

Explanation

Bloodborne pathogen protection relies on barriers such as gloves, eye protection, and gowns, along with exposure control procedures and hand hygiene. Cotton work gloves are not an effective fluid barrier. Hands must be washed with soap and water after contact, and disposable gloves are never reused.

Question 31Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

A worker at a disaster site is asked to handle debris that may contain sharp metal and broken glass. Which personal protective equipment selection is most appropriate for this task?

  1. Cut-resistant gloves and sturdy footwear with puncture-resistant soles Correct answer.
  2. Leather work gloves and soft-soled athletic shoes
  3. Latex exam gloves and open-toed sandals
  4. No hand protection if the worker is careful when picking up debris

Explanation

Debris containing sharp metal and glass creates laceration and puncture hazards to hands and feet. Cut-resistant gloves and footwear with puncture-resistant soles address these hazards directly. Thin exam gloves, soft-soled shoes, and bare hands offer little protection against sharp materials.

Question 32Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

A worker is assigned to a night shift at a disaster site where lighting is temporary and uneven. Which practice best reduces the risk of slips, trips, and falls under these conditions?

  1. Reduce walking speed and accept that some debris will remain on the paths
  2. Allow only experienced workers to move after dark without any route marking
  3. Instruct workers to carry their own flashlights and leave the site lighting as installed
  4. Provide adequate illumination along walking and working surfaces and keep routes clear of debris and cords Correct answer.

Explanation

Slip, trip, and fall prevention in temporary lighting depends on adequate illumination and housekeeping along travel routes. Cords, debris, and uneven surfaces should be removed or clearly marked. Personal flashlights and caution alone do not correct unlit or obstructed paths.

Question 33Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

Which statement correctly describes how fatigue should be managed during extended disaster recovery operations?

  1. Fatigue is a personal issue that workers should manage without informing supervisors
  2. Longer shifts are acceptable if workers consume energy drinks throughout the shift
  3. Fatigue only matters for equipment operators and not for other site workers
  4. Work-rest schedules and adequate sleep should be planned because fatigue impairs judgment and reaction time Correct answer.

Explanation

Fatigue degrades attention, decision-making, and reaction time, which raises the risk of injury across all site tasks. Disaster response planning therefore includes work-rest cycles, adequate rest, and monitoring of worker condition. Stimulants and silence about fatigue do not address the underlying impairment.

Question 34Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

During a disaster response, a worker is exposed to a chemical whose safety data sheet lists a permissible exposure limit. What does that limit represent?

  1. The maximum concentration that may be stored on site at any time
  2. An airborne concentration that workers should not exceed over the stated averaging period Correct answer.
  3. The amount of chemical that may be absorbed through the skin in one shift
  4. The concentration at which the chemical becomes immediately dangerous to life or health

Explanation

A permissible exposure limit is an airborne concentration limit, usually expressed as a time-weighted average over a defined period such as eight hours. It is used to evaluate and control inhalation exposure. It is not a storage limit, an IDLH value, or a skin absorption allowance.

Question 35Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

Workers are clearing a burned commercial building where the age of the structure suggests asbestos-containing materials may be present. Which action is most appropriate before disturbing suspect materials?

  1. Have workers wear dust masks and continue demolition without further evaluation
  2. Wet the material and break it up quickly to reduce the time of exposure
  3. Proceed with demolition because fire has already destroyed any asbestos fibers
  4. Stop work in that area and have the material evaluated and handled under the applicable asbestos requirements Correct answer.

Explanation

Suspect asbestos-containing material must be evaluated before disturbance, and removal or handling must follow applicable asbestos regulations and trained work practices. Fire does not destroy asbestos fibers, and dust masks are not adequate respiratory protection for asbestos work. Quick demolition spreads fibers and increases exposure.

Question 36Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

A worker is directed to perform a task at a disaster site without having received training on the associated hazard controls. What is the most appropriate response?

  1. Decline the task until the required training and hazard information are provided Correct answer.
  2. Ask a coworker to demonstrate once and then proceed with the task
  3. Perform the task only if the hazard is not visible in the work area
  4. Perform the task slowly and carefully while learning the controls on the job

Explanation

Workers have the right to receive training on recognized hazards and the controls required before performing hazardous tasks. Accepting an assignment without that training exposes the worker and others to uncontrolled risk. On-the-job demonstration and the absence of visible hazards do not substitute for required training.

Question 37Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

Which statement best explains why disaster sites often require a hazard assessment to be repeated as response operations progress?

  1. Hazard assessments are repeated mainly to satisfy paperwork requirements for funding
  2. A single initial assessment is valid for the entire response because the site boundaries do not move
  3. Repeating the assessment is required only when a new contractor arrives on site
  4. Conditions such as unstable structures, weather, and newly exposed materials change and can introduce new hazards Correct answer.

Explanation

Disaster environments are dynamic: structures can shift, weather can alter conditions, and debris removal can expose new hazards. Repeated assessment keeps controls matched to current conditions. Site boundaries and contractor arrivals do not define when reassessment is needed.

Question 38Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

When a worker discovers a suspected explosive device or suspicious package in disaster debris, which action is correct?

  1. Continue working in the area but avoid the immediate spot where the item was found
  2. Stop work, keep others away, and notify the appropriate authorities without touching the item Correct answer.
  3. Move the item to an open area so it can be examined more easily
  4. Cover the item with debris to prevent it from being seen

Explanation

Suspected explosive devices or suspicious packages require immediate notification of law enforcement or other appropriate authorities, with no handling or disturbance. Workers should evacuate and keep others out of the area. Moving, covering, or working around the item risks detonation or loss of evidence.

Question 39Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

A worker is using a portable generator to power lighting at a disaster site. Which arrangement best controls the risk of carbon monoxide exposure?

  1. Operate the generator in the basement and open a window for ventilation
  2. Operate the generator outdoors away from air intakes and never in an enclosed or partially enclosed space Correct answer.
  3. Place the generator in an open doorway so fumes can escape to the outside
  4. Run the generator indoors only while workers are awake to monitor it

Explanation

Carbon monoxide from fuel-powered equipment is colorless and odorless and can accumulate fatally in enclosed or partly enclosed spaces. Generators must be located outdoors, away from windows, doors, and air intakes. Partial ventilation and monitoring by awake workers do not make indoor operation safe.

Question 40Disaster site hazards and worker safety awareness

A worker at a disaster site is exposed to a chemical that can be absorbed through intact skin. Which control approach is most important in addition to airborne exposure controls?

  1. Selecting chemical-protective clothing and gloves appropriate to the substance and preventing skin contact Correct answer.
  2. Using barrier creams as a substitute for protective clothing
  3. Washing exposed skin only at the end of the work shift
  4. Relying on respiratory protection alone to prevent all exposure

Explanation

When a substance can be absorbed through the skin, inhalation controls alone are insufficient. Appropriate chemical-protective clothing and gloves selected for the specific substance, along with prompt decontamination, are needed to prevent dermal exposure. Barrier creams are not a substitute for protective equipment.

Question 41Personal protective equipment for disaster sites

A disaster site worker must select head protection for an area where overhead debris may fall and exposed electrical conductors are present. Which helmet class should be chosen?

  1. Class G general helmet
  2. A bump cap with no electrical rating
  3. Class C conductive helmet
  4. Class E electrical helmet Correct answer.

Explanation

Class E (electrical) helmets are tested to withstand high voltage and are required where contact with exposed electrical conductors is possible. Class G offers only limited electrical protection, and Class C is conductive by design. A bump cap provides no impact or electrical protection for construction-type hazards.

Question 42Personal protective equipment for disaster sites

During a disaster response, a worker's hard hat is struck by falling material and shows a visible crack. What is the correct action?

  1. Paint over the crack to seal it
  2. Tape the crack and keep wearing it
  3. Remove it from service and obtain a replacement Correct answer.
  4. Continue using it until the shift ends

Explanation

A helmet that has sustained an impact or shows cracks may have lost structural integrity even if damage looks minor, so it must be removed from service and replaced. Taping or painting does not restore impact resistance and can hide damage. Continued use risks head injury from a subsequent strike.

Question 43Personal protective equipment for disaster sites

Which eye protection is most appropriate for a disaster worker using a chipping hammer to break concrete?

  1. Safety goggles plus a face shield Correct answer.
  2. Goggles worn over contact lenses alone
  3. Safety glasses with side shields only
  4. A face shield worn alone without eye protection

Explanation

Chipping concrete generates high-velocity flying fragments from many directions, so primary eye protection (goggles) must be combined with a face shield for added facial coverage. Safety glasses alone leave gaps around the eyes, and a face shield alone does not seal against particles. Contact lenses are not a substitute for eye protection.

Question 44Personal protective equipment for disaster sites

Workers are clearing rubble in an area where the atmosphere has not been tested and could be oxygen-deficient. Which respiratory selection approach is correct?

  1. Use a supplied-air or self-contained breathing apparatus until testing shows the air is safe Correct answer.
  2. Hold your breath and work quickly through the area
  3. Use an air-purifying respirator with particulate filters
  4. A dust mask is adequate because rubble only creates dust

Explanation

Air-purifying respirators cannot add oxygen and are useless in an oxygen-deficient atmosphere. Until monitoring confirms acceptable oxygen and contaminant levels, workers need atmosphere-supplying respirators such as SCBA or supplied air. Relying on dust masks or breath-holding offers no protection against oxygen deficiency.

Question 45Personal protective equipment for disaster sites

A worker must wear a tight-fitting half-mask respirator. Which condition prevents a reliable face seal?

  1. Working in a hot environment
  2. Wearing prescription safety glasses
  3. Facial hair that crosses the sealing surface Correct answer.
  4. Having a small face

Explanation

A tight-fitting respirator depends on skin-to-facepiece contact, and facial hair along the sealing edge breaks that seal and allows leakage. The other conditions can be managed, but hair under the seal cannot. Workers who cannot achieve a seal must be given a different respirator type.

Question 46Personal protective equipment for disaster sites

Before a worker wears a tight-fitting respirator for the first time at a disaster site, what must be completed?

  1. A visual check of the filter cartridge
  2. A review of the SDS only
  3. Only a verbal instruction from a coworker
  4. A medical evaluation and fit test Correct answer.

Explanation

OSHA requires a medical evaluation before fit testing and use, followed by a fit test for each tight-fitting respirator model. Fit tests confirm the respirator seals on the individual wearer. Verbal instruction, SDS review, or a cartridge check does not satisfy these requirements.

Question 47Personal protective equipment for disaster sites

A worker is exposed to a chemical splash hazard from a liquid stored in damaged containers. Which glove selection is most appropriate?

  1. Leather gloves
  2. Disposable food-service gloves
  3. Chemical-resistant gloves selected for the specific chemical Correct answer.
  4. Cotton work gloves

Explanation

Chemical protective gloves must be matched to the specific substance because different materials resist different chemicals. Cotton, leather, and thin food-service gloves absorb or degrade quickly and offer little chemical protection. Selection should be based on manufacturer permeation and degradation data.

Question 48Personal protective equipment for disaster sites

Workers are walking through debris that includes exposed nails and jagged metal. Which footwear feature is essential?

  1. Running shoes with cushioned heels
  2. Steel or composite puncture-resistant soles Correct answer.
  3. Canvas sneakers with thick laces
  4. Slip-on sandals with closed toes

Explanation

Puncture-resistant soles protect the foot from nails, rebar, and sharp debris common after disasters. Sneakers, sandals, and running shoes lack puncture protection and can be penetrated. Protective footwear should also include impact-resistant toes in heavy debris areas.

Question 49Personal protective equipment for disaster sites

A worker is using a chainsaw to clear fallen trees after a storm. Which leg protection is appropriate?

  1. Rain pants over shorts
  2. Standard denim jeans
  3. Chain-saw chaps rated for the saw Correct answer.
  4. Athletic shorts with knee pads

Explanation

Chain-saw chaps contain cut-resistant fibers that jam the chain and slow it if contact occurs. Ordinary clothing such as jeans, rain pants, or shorts offers no such protection. Chaps should be worn whenever operating a chain saw in debris clearing.

Question 50Personal protective equipment for disaster sites

A worker enters an area where the noise level requires hearing protection. Which statement about hearing protection selection is correct?

  1. Hearing protectors should be selected and fitted to reduce noise exposure to a safe level Correct answer.
  2. Cotton in the ears is an acceptable substitute
  3. Any earplug will fit every worker equally well
  4. Hearing protection is only needed if noise causes immediate pain

Explanation

Hearing protectors must be chosen for the noise level and fitted to the individual so exposure is reduced below the permissible limit. Fit varies between people and devices, so selection and training matter. Cotton and waiting for pain are not protective strategies.