OHS Introduction: Non-Ionizing Radiation

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Questions and Answers

What is a primary health effect associated with ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure?

Pulmonary distress

Hearing loss

Increased heart rate

Skin cancer (correct)

Which of the following is classified under non-ionizing radiation?

Gamma rays

Infrared radiation (correct)

X-rays

Beta particles

Which of the following statements about chemical hazards is true?

All chemicals are considered dangerous.

Only solid chemicals pose a risk.

Chemical hazards are only found in industrial settings.

Chemical hazards can be chemical elements, molecules, or compounds. (correct)

What is a recommended method to prevent UV radiation exposure?

Wear protective clothing Signup and view all the answers

What does not characterize the effects of non-ionizing radiation?

Altering atomic structures Signup and view all the answers

What size of dust particles is typically able to penetrate to the alveoli of the lungs?

Smaller than 5 µm Signup and view all the answers

Fumes are primarily formed from which of the following processes?

The condensation of volatilized solids Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about fumes is incorrect?

Fumes are often larger than 1.0 µm in diameter. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes smoke from other airborne contaminants?

It results from the incomplete combustion of carbonaceous materials. Signup and view all the answers

Mists are generated by which of the following processes?

Condensation of liquids into droplets Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a common misconception about gases and fumes?

Fumes can be considered gases because they both are airborne. Signup and view all the answers

Which process may lead to the formation of toxic fumes during welding?

Welding lead-painted structures Signup and view all the answers

What is the size of carbon particles typically found in smoke?

Less than 0.1 µm Signup and view all the answers

What type of airborne contaminant is produced from tobacco smoke?

Mist Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes mist?

Finely divided liquid suspended in the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary characteristic of aerosols?

They are made of liquid droplets or solid particles fine enough to remain airborne. Signup and view all the answers

Which process transforms a liquid into vapor?

Evaporation Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT an example of a mist?

Carbon dioxide gas from combustion Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes gases from other states of matter?

Molecules are unrestricted by cohesive forces. Signup and view all the answers

Which airborne contaminant is primarily a form of vapor?

Smog Signup and view all the answers

Evaporation can begin at which of the following conditions?

Room temperature or higher Signup and view all the answers

Why are compressed gas cylinders considered inherently dangerous?

They may contain volatile organic compounds. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly identifies a risk associated with cryogenic liquids?

They can lead to frostbite and asphyxiation. Signup and view all the answers

What size of particulate matter is primarily regarded as a hazard when suspended in the air?

Less than 100 micrometers Signup and view all the answers

What type of inhaled contaminants can act like gases based on their small size?

Particles smaller than about 0.001 micrometers Signup and view all the answers

In which way can particulate matter pose a hazard besides inhalation?

By being ingested during food preparation. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT categorized as particulate matter?

Gases smaller than 0.001 µm Signup and view all the answers

What is a common route of exposure to chemical hazards from particulate matter?

Breathing in aerosolized particles Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following compounds has a boiling point high enough to not be considered a VOC?

Water Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant risk factor for air contaminants?

Particle size and structure Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the absorption of chemicals in the body?

Lipophilic chemicals can concentrate in body fat. Signup and view all the answers

How does particle size affect lung injury risks?

Smaller particles have a greater chance of reaching the deeper lungs. Signup and view all the answers

What role does solubility in lipids play in chemical absorption?

It facilitates concentration in body lipids. Signup and view all the answers

What factor enhances chemical distribution in the body?

High water solubility Signup and view all the answers

Which route of exposure is not considered important for chemical absorption?

Consumption of food Signup and view all the answers

Which type of chemical structure is likely to cause more damage to the lungs?

Crystalline structures Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of a chemical affects its absorption rate in the body?

Chemical properties such as pH and solubility Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Non-Ionizing Radiation

Includes ultraviolet (UV), visible light (including lasers), infrared, microwave, radio frequency, and extremely low frequencies.
Generally has no significant health effects beyond tissue heating (thermal effects).

Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation

Main source is sunlight; sun exposure should be minimized using protective clothing.
Prolonged exposure can lead to skin cancer and eye damage; protective measures include sunglasses.

Chemical Hazards

Defined as chemical substances that can potentially harm humans or the environment.
Types of chemicals include chemical elements, chemical molecules, and chemical compounds.

Routes of Exposure

Chemicals can enter the body through inhalation, skin contact, and injection.

Airborne Contaminants

Dust: Particles larger than 5 µm typically do not present inhalation risks, while particles smaller than 5 µm can penetrate alveoli.
Fumes: Extremely fine solid particles from volatilized solids condensing in cool air, often produced during welding and metalizing, potentially toxic especially with lead-based paints.
Smoke: Composed of carbon or soot particles (<0.1 µm) from incomplete combustion; can include both droplets and dry particles.
Mists: Suspended liquid droplets generated by condensation or atomization of liquids, e.g., oil mist during cutting operations.
Aerosols: Mixture of liquid droplets or solid particles small enough to remain airborne for extended periods.
Gases: Volatile substances, typically solid or liquid at room temperature, expand to occupy their enclosure; can include VOCs and solvents.

Particulate Matter

Includes all sizes of dust, fumes, fibers, and mists; poses a hazard when suspended in air.
Particles smaller than 0.001 µm behave like gases and are not classified as particulate matter.

Chemical Hazards Classification

Not all chemicals are hazardous; risks arise from handling, crushing, or breaking organic/inorganic materials.
Particle size significantly impacts inhalation risks; smaller sizes penetrate deeper into the lungs.
Solubility in lipids and water, along with pH, affects absorption and toxicity in the body.

Risk Factors for Chemical Exposure

Particle size and structure determine the likelihood of respiratory health impacts; crystalline structures can cause more damage.
The extent of absorption in the body varies based on the chemical's properties, including lipid solubility and water solubility.
Understanding routes of exposure is critical to assessing risk and developing safety measures.

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Description

This quiz covers the basics of non-ionizing radiation including ultraviolet (UV), visible light, infrared, microwaves, radio frequency, and extremely low frequency. It is part of the introduction to occupational health and safety (OHS) principles. Test your knowledge on the various types and implications of non-ionizing radiation in the workplace.