Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) Practice Test

When assessing the ergonomics of a lifting task, which factor is key to reducing injury risk?

1. Worker height

2. Load weight

3. Frequency of the lift

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

In assessing the ergonomics of a lifting task, considering all factors—including worker height, load weight, and frequency of the lift—is crucial for reducing injury risk. Each factor plays a significant role in determining how ergonomic a lifting task is and how likely it is to lead to musculoskeletal injuries. Worker height affects how easily a person can reach and manipulate objects, which can influence posture and strain during lifting. If the height of the worker does not match the height of the load, it can lead to awkward positions that increase the risk of injury. Load weight is a fundamental aspect to consider, as heavier loads demand more physical effort and can exceed a worker's lifting capacity, resulting in potential injuries. Proper lifting techniques and load assessments help mitigate this risk. The frequency of the lift is another key factor. Repetitive lifting can lead to fatigue, strain, and overuse injuries. Understanding how often the lift occurs can assist in developing appropriate lifting protocols and breaks to reduce injury risk. By taking all these elements into account, ergonomists can design lifting tasks that minimize the potential for injury, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive approach to ergonomic assessments in the workplace.