SENG 321-670-Home Work 6
.pdf
School
Texas A&M University**We aren't endorsed by this school
Course
SENG 670
Subject
Industrial Engineering
Date
Dec 20, 2024
Pages
12
Uploaded by abidali675569
P a g e | 2 7.3 What are the two principal federal requirements for aisles in industrial plants? The federal requirements of aisles in industries are as follows: 1.There should not be any obstruction on the aisle which can cause a potential hazard for the workers. 2.The aisles must be properly marked. 7.6 Suppose that in your plant, welders must stand on top of a 10-foot-high tank to complete manufacturing operations. What should be done, if anything, to protect them from falling? The fall hazard should be controlled either by installing a standard railing or by issuing and requiring workers to use fall protection equipment such as body harnesses, lanyards, and lifelines. 7.11 Explain how poor housekeeping could result in an OSHA citation that classifies the violation as “serious.”A violation is classified as “serious” when it can cause an accident, injury, or even death.The most common result of poor housekeeping is “slip and fall” which can have serious repercussions and cause fatal injuries to workers. Poor housekeeping may also result in the spread of infections such as HIV and HBV which will also have a lifelong impact on workers. In such instances, poor housekeeping can site a “serious” violation of OSHA. 7.17 Under what conditions are ladder cages specified? When may alternative ladder safety devices be used? What are the advantages and disadvantages of these devices? When a fixed ladder is more than 20 feet but less than 30 feet long, Alternative devices may be used on tower, water tank, and chimney ladders over 20 feet in unbroken length. 7.18 Define the term means of egress. In emergency preparedness, means of egress is not simply exits, the safety and health manager can analyze the entire building to determine whether every point in the building has a continuous and unobstructed way of travel to a public way. "Means of egress" has three components, which are (1) the way of exit access, (2) the exit itself, (3) the way of exit discharge. 7.25 Is the OSHA standard for aisle width a specification standard or a performance standard? Explain your reasoning Formerly the OSHA standard for aisle marking specified black or white color. This strict specification was revoked by OSHA, which now permits any color provided the function is maintained (performance standard).
P a g e | 3 7.33 Explain the difference in the application of a building “code” and a safety “standard.”For the most part, building codes apply to new construction. However, safety standards may apply to all buildings regardless of age. Therefore, buildings not in compliance with such safety standards must be remodeled or retrofitted to comply with the standard. 8.1Describe the general categories of the field of ergonomics. Ergonomics is a broad field and draws upon many different sciences. The relevant facets of the field as described in text include the following: 2. Ergonomic vehicle design for human performance 2. Designing safety features into workplace machines 3. Controlling the work environment, including: 4. Manual lifting 5. Accommodating individual worker characteristics 6. Workplace Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs 8.3Regulatory authorities have focused on workplace musculoskeletal disorders for approximately two decades; however, the terminology has changed over this period. What term was first used to refer to these disorders, and what other terms have been used as the focus has evolved up to the present? The development has proceeded from the following approximate sequence of terminology: 1.Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) 2.Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) 3.Cumulative Trauma Disorders (CTDs) 4.Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) 5.Workplace Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) 8.5What is the relationship between the ANSI standard and the OSHA standard for ergonomics? Both the ANSI and the OSHA standards for ergonomics were developed at the same time (the decade of the 1990s). The OSHA standard was intended to be mandatory and would be enforced with inspections and penalties. The ANSI standard was developed using the traditional standards development framework used for all ANSI voluntary standards. The two standards were very similar in content. Both had provisions for management plans for ergonomics. However, the components in the management plan in the provisions of the ANSI standard went beyond the management plan requirements specified in the OSHA standard. The ANSI standard specified job analysis and job design and intervention, which emphasizing the analysis and prevention of future hazards before the occurrence of the WMSD cases.
P a g e | 4 8.10Describe some examples of the application of ergonomics as found in the OSHA standards. Examples of ergonomics principles found in the OSHA standards include design specifications for punch press footswitches, provision for "dead-man controls" for crane pendants, the specification of two-hand operator controls for machines, and anti-tie down design features for such controls. 8.13Work environments can have an impact on employees. How could the three lines of defense be applied to addressing work environment concerns? The three lines of defense model are typically used in risk management to identify and mitigate risks in an organization. It can also be applied to address work environment concerns. First Line of Defense:The first line of defense is the front-line workers themselves. They should be trained to identify and report any work environment concerns they observe. They should also be responsible for implementing any corrective actions to address these concerns. Second Line of Defense:The second line of defense is the management team. They should provide oversight and guidance to the front-line workers, as well as implement controls to prevent or mitigate work environment concerns. They should also be responsible for monitoring and reporting any concerns to senior management. Third Line of Defense:The third line of defense is the internal audit function. They should provide independent assurance that the first and second lines of defense are working effectively. They should also provide recommendations for improvement and monitor the implementation of these recommendations. By applying the three lines of defense model, work environment concerns can be identified, addressed, and monitored effectively, promoting a safe and healthy work environment for employees. 8.19 Outline some basic elements in a program for workplace musculoskeletal disorders. Both the OSHA standard (that was rescinded) and the draft ANSI standard contained requirements for a WMSD program. The ANSI wording was similar to the OSHA wording but went a little further to specify job analysis and job design and intervention, even if WMSDs had not yet been manifested in the workplace. Program components required in the draft ANSI standard are as follows: 1-Management responsibilities 2-Training 3-Employee involvement
P a g e | 5 4-Surveillance 5-Evaluation and management of MSD cases 6-Job analysis 7-Job design and intervention 8.8. Given the following lifting task and RWL, what can be done to improve it? 51 * .91 * .96 * .88 * .66 * .72 * .90 = 16.77 The recommended weight load will be increased if Asymmetry Multiplier improved from 0.66 to 1. Low asymmetry multiplier means that load lifter has to move an angle of 105-degree to place load from point to another, so If this can be changes, the lift will be improved. 8.29 Calculate the RWL and the LI for the following task. As forgings exit a cooling bath, they are loaded into various tumblers for finishing. Each forging weighs 15 pounds and is lifted from a conveyor that is 36 inches high to a tumbler that is 48 inches high. The forgings are relatively small, so the hands are only 5 inches from the waist. The process completes a forging every 10 seconds. The coupling is considered fair, and the operator works a full 8-hour shift. Data given in question Weight of forging = 15 pounds Horizontal distance from midpoint of body = H= 5 inch Vertical distance from floor =V= 36 inch Absolute distance traveled during lift = D= 48 –36 = 12 inch Asymmetry Angle = 0 degree Coupling condition = Fair Lifting Frequency = 1/10S * 60S/M = 6 lifts / minute
P a g e | 6 Based on data, find all multipliers from Table 8.1 as below Load constant Lc= 51 pounds HM = 1VM = 0.96DM = 1AM = 1FM = 0.27CM = 1We know that NIOSH lifting equation is. RWL = LC x HM x VM x DM x FM x AM x CM RWL = 51 (1×0.96×1×1×0.27×1) RWL = 13.22 poundsWe know that Lifting Index is calculated as below. Lifting Index (LI) = Load Weight ÷ RWL Lifting Index (LI) = 15 ÷ 13.22 Lifting Index (LI) = 1.13 8.30 Worker complaints of what type motivated the development of ergonomics standard? Complaint system is the important part of ergonomic system. These complaints are reviewed yearly and come up with solutions which will provide the worker with friendly working environment. Hence, the complaints from the workers regarding work related issues and health issues had motivated the development of ergonomic standards.
P a g e | 7 8.31 identify the seven generally accepted risk factors that can contribute to workplace musculoskeletal disorders? The seven generally accepted risk factors that contribute to workplace Musculo skeletal disorders are as follows: 1-Force To do a task the amount of effort needed is defined as force. 2-Repetition To repeat the given task number of times. 3-Awkward posture When a body part is deviated from its neutral position. 4-Static posture When posture is aligned constant for more amount of time. 5-Vibration When body part comes in contact with vibrating surface. 6-Contact stress The stress which is associated when there is contact between sensitive tissues of body and hard objects. 7-Cold temperature (environmental) The risk when exposed to cold, heat, air pollution and noise. 8.32 One strategy for controlling hazards is to use pre-employment physical testing to screen employees for the job. What problems are associated with this strategy? There was one strategy used for controlling lifting hazards was of pre-employment physical testing to screen employees for job. The problems associated with this strategy are as follows: 1-Care must be taken by the employer not to discriminate against classes of employees. 2-Devising a test is difficult which represent the lifting operations of the actual job. 3-It is ineffective if the test does not determine whether the person can do the actual job. 4-Reasonable accommodations are to be done for the (ADA)applicants who are unable to meet lifting requirements of the job.
P a g e | 8 8.33 what is the current meaning of the abbreviation MSD? MSD stands for Musculoskeletal Disorders. Musculoskeletal Disorders are injuries or disorders which affect the human body movement or musculoskeletal system. 8.34 Explain the difference between job rotation and ramp-in period? Job rotation: It is a technique of rotating employees assigned jobs at regular intervals throughout their employment. It helps the employees to develop more skills, reduces monotony, develops wider range of experience, exposes workers to all verticals of company. Ramp in period: Ramp in period is defined as the period in which the new workers are gradually adapted to highly repeated tasks like assembly. The worker performs tasks more efficiently, increases work standard and gets well adapted to handle the repetitive motions that are required. During this period the unnecessary discomfort to perform repetitive tasks is reduced. It also increases productivity. Additional Questions: (5 pts. Each) 1. What controls would you put in place to prevent ‘slips and falls’ in your workplace? Slips and falls can happen due to many reasons such as from uneven working surfaces to unsafe ladder positions. Knowing the causes can help managers assess risk factors and devise ways to prevent them. Tips for preventing Slips & Falls Hazards 1.Practicing Good housekeeping–A slip-free workspace begins with housekeeping. Removing clutter helps tidy up the floor and makes it walkable for everyone in the workplace. 2.Providing adequate lighting, Workers can navigate through areas better if there is enough light. Given this, it’s best to place proper lighting in access and egress points such as halls, ramps, stairs, and exits. 3.Installing Warning signs, By doing so warns people about walking in hazardous spaces to keep them safe. For example, construction safety uses warning lines, control zones, and designated areas to mark which areas are passable or restricted. 4.Cleaning Spills immediately–Proper cleaning ensures that the floor is free from hazardous elements so that people can walk safely. To keep water from the floor, you may also consider various dewatering methods and equipment such as a sump pump. 5.Wear proper Footwear,non-slip shoes with good traction protect workers from static electricity, falling objects, explosions, exposure to hazardous substances, and other risks.
P a g e | 9 6.Maintaining and improving Floor quality–Modifying the floor space can go a long way to ensure safety from slips, trips, and falls. Fall protection can be improved by inspecting floors regularly and investing in non-slippery flooring options, among others. 7.Implementing safety plans and protocols–A well-thought-out safety plan cements all efforts in promoting fall protection, especially in high-risk workspaces. This plan must include in-depth risk assessments, safety standards and practices, training, regular inspections, equipment guidelines, and toolbox talks. 2. Study the incident at Imperial Foods poultry processing plant in Hamlet (1991) that was discussed in class. If you were given a position as a Safety and Health Manager in this company prior to the incident, what would you have done to ensure safety to employees and process? Being a safety and Health Manager, I will do below actions to ensure the safety and health of employee. 1-Inculcate Good Safety Culture I demonstrate a commitment to safety and health of working employees and leading by example, to create an environment in which safety is a top priority and employees feel empowered to take responsibility for their own well-being. 2-Developing Policies and ProceduresI developed and implemented safety policies and procedures. Those policies should be clear, concise, and easily accessible to all employees.3-Training of Employee I developed a training plan for the employee to train them in identifying and reporting any work environment related concerns they observe as well as how to act during any emergency. 4-Monitoring and Enforcement Safety and Health manager is responsible for monitoring compliance with safety policies and procedures and taking action wherever deem necessary. So, I will conduct regular safety inspections, reviewing incident reports, and addressing non-compliance through appropriate disciplinary measures. Under the above principles and OSHA guidelines, I analyze the entire building to determine whether every point in the building has a continuous and unobstructed way of travel to a public as well as emergency exit to cope up for any emergency condition. I put my efforts to convince top management regarding increased number of emergencies exits as per building occupancy and went through a proper Management of Change as well as Process Hazard Study during transformation of building from Ice Factory to Imperial Food Poultry Processing Plant.
P a g e | 10 3-You’ve recently been assigned to the Safety and Health Department of your employer and employees come to you exhibiting and complaining about ergonomic / carpal tunnel symptoms. How would you further investigate the issue in terms of trends / data? Describe the key elements you would put in place for an effective program. How will you convince your supervisor that an effective program will save the company more money than the cost of implementation of the program? As per definition, carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is regularly pinched and compressed by wrist tissues. As a result, ones can feel pain frequently, tingling, and weakness, usually in the first three fingers of the hand and the base of the thumb. It is known that carpal tunnel syndrome dysfunction of the wrist and result from activities that require repetitive hand motion. So, to roll-out, I will collect the reported first aid or medical treatment cases w.r.t. to wrist of below concerns employee. 1-Assembly-line workers 2-Fabrication shop employee and mechanics 3-Main field area mechanical technion 4-Office workers perform typing regularly. Below are the key elements which I should make part of my program as 1-Management Responsibilities 2-Employee training 3-Employee Involvement 4-Job Analysis 5-Job design and Intervention 6-Surveillance 7-Evaluation and continual improvement I get all the claims and incidents reports related to carpal tunnel syndrome and prepare a cost benefit analysis report. After compiling the data, will sow to supervisors and mangers to convince that how much money we save against taking precautionary actions or implementing a system to save CTS issue at site.
P a g e | 11 4-Identify the problems in the pictures and explain why: 1-In first pick, There is no tag or identification on the valve of first picture and both valves are identical so there is chance of error to operate either one which can cause incident. 2-In second pick, area to operate the valve is very congested as well as chemical / oil spillage on the floor with very bad housekeeping condition.
P a g e | 12 Safety equipment’sare covered with ice and in case of any emergency, these are not readily available which would jeopardize the rescue operation. Emergency or rescue safety equipment’sare always readily available, that’swhy should be placed at designated location where there will be no ice or de-icing should be done on regular basis.
P a g e | 13 Site glass drain is open to atmosphere which is not a safe practice. If operator is there to see the level and drain suddenly pass, then chemical will be splashed on operator. That’swhy drain should be properly routed to a safe location rather than open to atmosphere.