January 2009

Examiners Report
NEBOSH International
Diploma in
Occupational Health
and Safety (Unit IB)
2009 NEBOSH, Dominus Way, Meridian Business Park, Leicester LE19 1QW
tel: 0116 263 4700 fax: 0116 282 4000 email: info@nebosh.org.uk website: www.nebosh.org.uk

The National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health is a registered charity, number 1010444

T(s):exrpts/J /J -B0901 EXTERNAL DW/DA/REW
Examiners Report

NEBOSH INTERNATIONAL DIPLOMA
IN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY


Unit IB International control of
hazardous agents in the workplace


JANUARY 2009




CONTENTS



Introduction 2



General comments 3



Comments on individual questions 4





Introduction



NEBOSH (The National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health) was formed in 1979 as
an independent examining board and awarding body with charitable status. We offer a comprehensive
range of globally-recognised, vocationally-related qualifications designed to meet the health, safety,
environmental and risk management needs of all places of work in both the private and public sectors.
Courses leading to NEBOSH qualifications attract over 25,000 candidates annually and are offered by
over 400 course providers in 65 countries around the world. Our qualifications are recognised by the
relevant professional membership bodies including the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health
(IOSH) and the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM).

NEBOSH is an awarding body recognised and regulated by the UK regulatory authorities:

The Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator (Ofqual) in England
The Department for Children, Education, Lifelong Learning and Skills (DCELLS) in Wales
The Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) in Northern Ireland

NEBOSH follows the GCSE, GCE, VCE, GNVQ and AEA Code of Practice 2007/8 published by the
regulatory authorities in relation to examination setting and marking (available at the Ofqual website
www.ofqual.gov.uk). While not obliged to adhere to this code, NEBOSH regards it as best practice to
do so.

Candidates scripts are marked by a team of Examiners appointed by NEBOSH on the basis of their
qualifications and experience. The standard of the qualification is determined by NEBOSH, which is
overseen by the NEBOSH Council comprising nominees from, amongst others, the Health and Safety
Executive (HSE), the Department for Education and Skills (Df ES), the Confederation of British
Industry (CBI), the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the Institution of Occupational Safety and
Health (IOSH). Representatives of course providers, from both the public and private sectors, are
elected to the NEBOSH Council.

This report on the Examination provides information on the performance of candidates which it is
hoped will be useful to candidates and tutors in preparation for future examinations. It is intended to
be constructive and informative and to promote better understanding of the syllabus content and the
application of assessment criteria.

NEBOSH 2009


Any enquiries about this report publication should be addressed to:

NEBOSH
Dominus Way
Meridian Business Park
Leicester
LE10 1QW

Tel: 0116 263 4700
Fax: 0116 282 4000
Email: info@nebosh.org.uk
2 EXTERNAL


General comments



Many candidates are well prepared for this unit assessment and provide comprehensive and relevant
answers in response to the demands of the question paper. This includes the ability to demonstrate
understanding of knowledge by applying it to workplace situations.

There are always some candidates, however, who appear to be unprepared for the unit assessment
and who show both a lack of knowledge of the syllabus content and a lack of understanding of how
key concepts should be applied to workplace situations.

In order to meet the pass standard for this assessment, acquisition of knowledge and understanding
across the syllabus are prerequisites. However, candidates need to demonstrate their knowledge and
understanding in answering the questions set. Referral of candidates in this unit is invariably because
they are unable to write a full, well-informed answer to one or more of the questions asked.

Some candidates find it difficult to relate their learning to the questions and as a result offer responses
reliant on recalled knowledge and conjecture and fail to demonstrate a sufficient degree of
understanding. Candidates should prepare themselves for this vocational examination by ensuring
their understanding, not rote-learning pre-prepared answers.


Recurrent Problems

It is recognised that many candidates are well prepared for their assessments. However, recurrent
issues, as outlined below, continue to prevent some candidates reaching their full potential in the
assessment.

Many candidates fail to apply the basic principles of examination technique and for some
candidates this means the difference between a pass and a referral.

In some instances, candidates are failing because they do not attempt all the required
questions or are failing to provide complete answers. Candidates are advised to always
attempt an answer to a compulsory question, even when the mind goes blank. Applying basic
health and safety management principles can generate credit-worthy points.

Some candidates fail to answer the question set and instead provide information that may be
relevant to the topic but is irrelevant to the question and cannot therefore be awarded marks.

Many candidates fail to apply the command words (also known as action verbs, eg describe,
outline, etc). Command words are the instructions that guide the candidate on the depth of
answer required. If, for instance, a question asks the candidate to describe something, then
few marks will be awarded to an answer that is an outline.

Some candidates fail to separate their answers into the different sub-sections of the questions.
These candidates could gain marks for the different sections if they clearly indicated which
part of the question they were answering (by using the numbering from the question in their
answer, for example). Structuring their answers to address the different parts of the question
can also help in logically drawing out the points to be made in response.

Candidates need to plan their time effectively. Some candidates fail to make good use of their
time and give excessive detail in some answers leaving insufficient time to address all of the
questions.

Candidates should also be aware that Examiners cannot award marks if handwriting is
illegible.
3 EXTERNAL

UNIT IB International control of hazardous agents in the
workplace











Section A all questions compulsory

Question 1 Outline the possible functions of an occupational health service within a
large manufacturing company. (10)


The possible functions of an occupational health service that could have been outlined
include pre-employment health screening or other medical examinations (for example,
of employees returning to work following accidents or of those such as transport
drivers whose work demands particular physical competencies), biological monitoring
and health surveillance. The service would also very likely have a role in contributing
to health and safety policies, providing specialist input to risk assessments and health
education and training programmes, carrying out sickness and absence monitoring
and keeping health records, managing first-aid provision, implementing rehabilitation
programmes and liaising with other professionals such as local general medical
practitioners and enforcement officers. Other possible functions, depending on the
organisation and its activities, might include immunisation, drug and alcohol screening
and involvement with environmental monitoring programmes.

A few candidates were able to identify the role of occupational health staff in
conducting medical examinations and health surveillance but were then not able to go
much further and outline other likely functions, in particular how occupational health
expertise could be used in promoting and managing health at work. In general,
however, the question was reasonably well answered and most candidates were able
to provide a good range of possible functions of an occupational health service.

It was not necessary to outline the roles of different personnel within an occupational
health department as this is outside the scope of the question.



Question 2 (a) Outline why transport (duct) velocity is an important parameter to
measure when assessing the efficiency of a local exhaust
ventilation (LEV) system. (2)

(b) Outline the methods that can be used to measure transport
velocity in an LEV system. (5)

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


Part (a) of the question was concerned only with the parameter of duct velocity.
Marks were available for identifying that duct velocity must be sufficient to keep the
particles airborne and, if this is not the case, then particles may settle out in the
ductwork and affect the overall efficiency of the system.






4 EXTERNAL
Part (b) required an outline of the methods that may be used to measure duct velocity
in an LEV system and it was expected that candidates would outline the principles and
use of both a thermal anemometer and a pitot-static tube. The choice of
instrumentation is governed by the air velocity in the duct with a thermal anemometer
being more suitable if this is less than 3ms- (though knowledge of the actual figure
was not a key requirement).

The operating principles of each instrument were required in terms of the
anemometer responding to the cooling effect of airflow and the pitot-static tube
measuring, via a pressure gauge, velocity pressure which can then be converted to
velocity. Regarding the actual use, the importance of finding a suitable sampling point
should have been mentioned. Any such sampling point should be in an area of ducting
that is free from turbulence such as a long stretch of ducting.

Reference to a swinging vane anemometer (with probe) was also appropriate.
However, reference to rotating vane anemometers was inappropriate in response to
this part of the question.

Part (c) gave scope for candidates to recall knowledge of other parameters relating to
LEV systems such as capture velocity, pressure differential across the filter and fan
speed. 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.

There were only a few candidates who displayed the required level of knowledge in
answering this question. The remainder did not appear to be familiar with either the
principles of local exhaust ventilation or the methods for measurement.



Question 3 A research laboratory undertakes intentional work with biological agents
such as Ebola and Lassa viruses. These biological agents are
categorised as extremely hazardous, being placed in the highest hazard
group.

Outline a range of technical controls that should be used to minimise the
risks to those working in the laboratory, where elimination or substitution
of the hazard is not possible. (10)


In answering this question, candidates were expected to outline technical control
measures such as: the separation of the laboratory from other activities in the same
building; input and extracted air to be passed through a HEPA (high efficiency
particulate air) filter; access to be restricted to authorised persons by means of a
security pass or swipe card system; the work area to be sealable to permit disinfection
and to be maintained at an air pressure negative to atmosphere; all surfaces to be
impervious to water, easy to clean and resistant to acids, alkalis, solvents and
disinfectants; secure storage to be provided for the biological agents; an observation
window (or equivalent) to be fitted so that the occupants can be seen at all times; a
microbiological safety cabinet with sealed front and glove port access to be used to
carry out the work; a facility such as an autoclave to be provided for rendering waste
safe; provision of an incinerator for disposal of animal carcases on site (if applicable);
the laboratory should be provided with its own equipment and finally the provision of
appropriate and adequate hand washing facilities.

There were not many good answers provided for this question with few candidates
appreciating either the hazards involved or the precautions that should be taken.



5 EXTERNAL


Question 4 (a) Use the data below to calculate the 8 hour Time-Weighted
Average (TWA) exposure to flour dust for a bakery operative.
Your answer should include detailed working to show your
understanding of how the exposure is determined. (7)

Working Period
(Total shift time =8 hours)
Tasks undertaken by bakery
operative
Exposure to Flour dust
(mg/m
3
)
08.00 10.30 Weighing ingredients 14
10.30 10.45 Break
10.45 12.45 Charging the mixers 10
12.45 13.45 Lunch
13.45 15.45 Cleaning equipment 2.5
15.45 16.00 Assisting maintenance staff 0 (assumed)

Assuming that exposure is zero during break times and lunch time

Also assume that a legally enforceable Exposure Limit (8 hours TWA) of 10 mg/m3
is applicable to flour dust

(b) The bakery changes the working patterns to the extent that the
operative now only charges the mixer. In addition, shift times
have been altered to a 10 hour shift, which includes a 1 hour
lunch break where the exposure is assumed to be zero. Using
the relevant data above, recalculate the equivalent 8 hour TWA
exposure in their new role AND comment on the legal
implications of this change. (3)


Answers to the first part of the question should have shown how the 8 hour TWA
exposure to flour dust for a bakery operative could be calculated firstly by multiplying
together each time period and exposure including the periods of zero exposure, then
adding the results of the calculations together and finally dividing by eight. This would
give an answer of 7.5 mg/m. Numerically, this could be expressed as:

((14 x 2.5) +(0 x 0.25) +(10 X 2) +(0 X 1) +(2.5 X 2) +(0 X 0.25))/8
=(35 +0 +20 +0 +5 +0)/8 =60/8
60/8 =7.5 mg/m.

For part (b), a similar calculation would have shown an exposure of 11.25 mg/m viz:
((10 x 9) +(0 x 1)) =90/8 =11.25 mg/m.

The change in the mode of working has increased the individuals exposure so it is
now more than the legal exposure limit. The employer is no longer adequately
controlling exposure and must introduce additional controls.

While the first part of the question was well answered, many candidates became
confused with the calculations required for the second part and arrived at a wrong
result. They were then not in a position to comment on the legal implications of the
change in the working pattern.










6 EXTERNAL

Question 5 (a) Identify the way in which lasers are classified according to their
hazard. (6)

(b) Low power lasers are widely used to read bar-code labelled
products at checkouts in retail premises. Outline the design
features that should be incorporated into these laser products to
ensure their safe operation and maintenance. (4)


In answer to part (a) of the question, candidates were expected to identify that the
classification of lasers is defined in an IEC standard IEC 60825 (also EN 60825).
The classifications are based on accessible emission levels with the power of the
lasers measured in milliwatts (mW). There are seven different classifications 1, 1M,
2, 2M, 3B, 3R, and 4 and marks were awarded to those who additionally identified the
graduation in the level of hazard associated with each class from Class 1 the lowest
level to Class 4 lasers which pose the greatest hazard.

For part (b), design features that should be incorporated into the laser products to
ensure their safe operation and maintenance include the laser having no greater
power than Class 1; the use of embedded systems; the fitting of a protective housing
with trigger operation on the hand held version; incorporating a key control with
interlock to the power source; the provision of signage and the appropriate positioning
of the laser, including hand-held equipment, to avoid eye-level exposure.

This question was not well answered with many candidates lacking any knowledge of
laser classification or being able to visualise the practical scenario involving bar code
readers.



Question 6 A company has decided to close its offices and allow the 30 workers to
work from home.

The company will provide each worker with their own portable (laptop)
computer for use at home and on their daily visits to customers.

Outline the factors which should be considered to minimise ergonomic
risks to their workers when purchasing these laptops AND bringing them
into use. (10)


This question focussed on the ergonomic considerations involved in the use of
portable computers and the factors which should be considered to minimise risks to
users.

The initial selection and purchase of the equipment is of prime importance if the
computer is to be used on the move where consideration would need to be given to
the provision of as large a screen as possible; to the weight of the equipment; to the
provision of light weight carrying cases or trolleys and to the provision of friction pads
to stop the computer slipping during use.

During home use consideration would have to be given to the provision of a separate
mouse and keyboard and a separate screen or docking station as well as the
provision of other workstation equipment such as a chair and desk.






7 EXTERNAL
Other factors which would have to be considered would be the involvement of the
users in the selection of the equipment; revising the display screen equipment and
manual handling risk assessments to reflect the new mode of working and providing
training on the use of the portable machines with reference to carrying out risk
assessments on workstations created at home or on the move; on minimising the
ergonomic risks associated with correct set-up and use, for example on the
importance of taking regular breaks and on minimising the manual handling risks
associated with carrying the laptop.

Answers to this question were to an acceptable standard though some candidates did
not focus wholly on the given scenario and wrote at length about software and
ergonomic issues associated with a workstation rather than concentrating on the
issues associated with the use of a laptop.









Section B three from five questions to be attempted

Question 7 A small printing company operates a number of printing machines which
are located in an open plan workshop. Following a noise survey the
company discovers that their workers are being exposed to high average
daily noise levels. The noise levels exceed regulatory exposure limits.

(a) Describe the acute and chronic physiological effects of exposure
to high noise levels on the individual. (4)

(b) Explain what steps the company should take to protect workers. (16)
In your answer clearly describe the range of technical and
organisational control measures that could be introduced.


In answering part (a) of the question, candidates were expected to outline effects such
as tinnitus, a ringing in the ears that may be chronic or acute; threshold shift which
can again be temporary or permanent; and noise induced hearing loss where those
affected suffer a loss of sensitivity to sounds in the speech range.

For part (b), candidates should have referred to the need to reduce exposure by
means other than the provision of hearing protection and could have described
technical controls such as: replacing older/noisier equipment with machines that
emitted lower levels of noise; isolating the noisier machines in a separate area of the
workshop and building a noise enclosure of suitable noise attenuating material around
them; mounting the noisy equipment on rubber strips or dampers; lining the walls and
floor of the workshop with acoustically absorbing material and applying damping to
metal panels on machines; and creating a noise haven for the employees. If, even
after taking the above measures, the provision of hearing protection was found to be
necessary, it should be chosen based on an octave band analysis measurement of
the noise emitted in order to provide the best overall reduction in exposure.

Organisational controls include reducing exposure times by job rotation; designating
hearing protection zones; providing training to employees on the risks associated with
exposure to noise and on the fitting and maintenance of hearing protection; ensuring
hearing protectors, once issued, were used and introducing disciplinary procedures to
deal with those employees who did not wear them.

Answers were generally to a reasonable standard with most candidates able to use a
generic noise control approach to the specific example in the question.

8 EXTERNAL


Question 8 (a) Describe the ways the body may defend itself against inhaled
dusts. (12)

(b) A company uses a range of coloured powders in the manufacture
of paints. These powders are added directly to a mixing vessel
from sacks. The company is concerned about the level of
exposure to its workers from the powders during this part of the
process. Outline the practical control measures that could be
used to minimise exposure to these powders during the addition. (8)


The bodys first line of defence against inhaled dusts is the nasal hairs which trap and
filter out dust particles greater than ten microns in size. Mucus in the nose and mouth
also traps these particles which are subsequently ejected by sneezing, blowing the
nose and spitting. Dust particles between five and ten microns tend to settle in the
mucus covering the bronchi and broncioles and are wafted upwards by tiny hairs the
ciliary escalator towards the throat. They are then coughed and spat out. Particles
smaller than five microns are more likely to reach deep into the lungs, as far as the
alveoli. These particles are ingested by macrophages a type of white blood cell in
a process known as phagocytosis and transported back to the ciliary escalator or to
the lymphatic system. They may also be transported across the alveolar membrane
into the blood stream.

In answering part (b), candidates should have recognised that elimination of the
coloured powder was not an option since the colour range was required.
Consequently they were expected to outline practical control measures such as
introducing the colouring agent in a pellet or dye solution form. If this was not possible,
then the powder could be fed into the mixing vessel by means of an automated feed
system (such as a screw conveyor). Local exhaust ventilation is also an option. A
vacuum system would need to be introduced to clear up spillages and employees
should be provided with personal protective equipment such as overalls, gloves and
goggles. Some form of respiratory protection would also have to be provided. If the
dust was thought to be nuisance only, then a particle filtering face piece a
disposable face mask changed on a regular basis could suffice. However, a mask
and filter respirator would have to be worn if the powder were found to be harmful.
Adequate supervision to enforce use is important. Use of appropriate handling
techniques to minimise dust creation when emptying sacks was also relevant.

The first part of the question, based on a theoretical concept, was well answered.
However, the practical aspect of the scenario in the second part caused problems.















9 EXTERNAL


Question 9 It is often necessary to monitor a workers personal exposure to
hazardous substances using a variety of methods including:

gravimetric analysis;
microscopy;
chemical analysis.

For EACH of these three measurement principles:

(a) identify a type of hazardous substance, AND suggest a typical
workplace situation, where such a measurement may be
necessary; (6)

(b) outline the type of equipment and the methodology used to
determine the workers personal exposure to the hazardous
substance. (14)


For part (a) of the question, candidates should have identified that the gravimetric
method for measuring personal exposure to hazardous substances may be used for
measuring total inhalable or respirable dusts for instance in a woodworking workshop
or in the manufacture of chemicals. Microscopy would be used for the measurement
of fibres such as following the accidental disturbance or planned removal of asbestos.
Chemical analysis is used in the measurement of gases, vapours, fumes and some
dusts in workplaces such as laboratories or those involved in the manufacture of
chemicals.

Part (b) asked candidates to outline the equipment and methodology used in each of
the three monitoring methods. With gravimetric, a filter on a sampling head attached
to a pump is used. There are various types of sample head depending on the type of
dust being determined (eg 7 hole, , IOM and the cyclone). The filter is weighed before
and after sampling and the concentration, expressed in mg/m, is determined from the
weight gain and the volume of air drawn through the pump during the sampling period.
With microscopy, a membrane filter fitted on an appropriate sampling head (eg
cowled) is attached to a pump. After sampling is completed, a phase contrast
microscope is used to count the fibres. The number of fibres in a known proportion of
the sample is calculated and extrapolated to the whole sample with the result being
expressed as fibres per millilitre of air (f/ml). As far as chemical analysis is concerned,
there are numerous active and passive collection devices. For example, a tube or
sampling head with a filter impregnated with an adsorbing material such as charcoal,
tenax or silica attached to a pump. After sampling it is desorbed and analysed in a
laboratory. Analysis techniques include mass spectrometry, IR spectrometry and gas
chromatography. Concentrations are expressed in parts per million or milligrams/m.

General points associated with each monitoring method include the necessity: to
calibrate the pumps used; to draw a known volume of air through the filter or tube; to
take a number of samples to minimise errors in measurement; and to ensure the
sampling head was placed in the breathing zone.

This was not a popular question. Answers generally demonstrated a lack of technical
knowledge of the measuring equipment involved.









10 EXTERNAL


Question 10 A slightly corrosive solution is used as a treatment in part of a
manufacturing process. The solution is applied by hand brushing. For
this process, other methods of application are not practicable.

(a) Outline the factors that should be considered in the selection of
personal protective equipment to adequately protect the skin and
the eyes of those involved in the process. (10)

(b) Outline the content of a training programme that will assist
workers to use the personal protective equipment correctly. (5)

(c) Identify a range of practical measures (other than training) that
can be taken to encourage the use of the personal protective
equipment and maintain its effectiveness. (5)


In answering part (a) of the question, a logical approach would have been to outline
the factors to be considered in the selection of personal protective equipment firstly for
the hands, then for the face and eyes and finally for the rest of the body. However,
firstly, applicable to all forms of protection are factors such as: consultation and user
trials; comfort/fit; conformity to appropriate performance standards and appropriate
chemical resistance. For the selection of protective gloves, additional relevant factors
were the chemical breakthrough time; the level of dexterity required for the task; the
length of the glove to afford adequate protection; the durability of the gloves; the need
to ensure that a suitable range of sizes is available for the various users; and any
employee allergies to the glove material or any other skin problems. In the selection of
eye protection, relevant factors were the risk of splashing the face as well as eyes; the
need to use goggles or a face shield (glasses inadequate); and their compatibility with
other protective equipment if this was required. In the selection of body protection,
candidates should have referred to aprons and/or overalls and appropriate footwear.

Good answers to the second part of the question would have identified that
employees should receive training in topics such as: the health risks of the chemical in
use; the type of personal protection to be used and the reason for its use; the methods
to be used for putting on and taking off the equipment without causing contamination
including decontaminating or discarding gloves after use; the methods of examining
the equipment for damage or degradation, particularly gloves, and for reporting
defects and obtaining replacements; how to store the equipment correctly and finally
how to carry out self examination of the skin and the action to be taken if problems
were to occur.

For part (c), candidates were expected to identify practical measures such as:
management leading by example; employees being involved in the selection of the
equipment; ensuring the availability of a range of sizes in gloves and fully adjustable
face shields; ensuring employees were required to sign for their equipment and
maintaining records of issue; issuing the equipment on a personal basis and providing
adequate storage facilities; using propaganda, signs and posters and incentive
schemes; monitoring compliance in the use of the equipment with a recognised code
of discipline for non-use; and finally monitoring the effectiveness of the equipment
issued and replacing it with an alternative type if problems were encountered.

While this was a popular question and generally well answered, those who were not
so successful were those who found it difficult to adapt their standard generic personal
protective equipment answer to the actual scenario in the question.




11 EXTERNAL


Question 11 You are a health and safety advisor to a railway train operating company.
You have been asked to prepare a company policy on drug misuse.
Outline the key points that such a policy should include. (20)


In the preparation of a policy on drug misuse for a railway train operating company,
candidates should have outlined key points such as: a general statement of aims, for
instance the employer expects all employees to ensure that drug misuse does not
have a detrimental effect on their work; responsibilities for carrying out the policy
(managers, employees, occupational health counsellors etc) and who is covered by
the policy (employees, contractors, visitors); a definition of drug misuse that includes
misuse of prescription drugs as well as prohibited drugs; the requirement for
notification to management by those employees taking prescription drugs; a reporting
procedure for employees if they suspect colleagues are taking or are under the
influence of drugs; circumstances in which drug testing will be carried out such as pre-
employment, randomly as a precautionary measure for all drivers and track side
workers and following any track side or train accident or incident; the practical
arrangements for carrying out testing including those for peripatetic workers; the
arrangements for handling samples taken for drug testing; the procedures to be
followed after a positive test or a refusal to take a test with a clear statement on the
sanctions to be taken in such circumstances; details of an appeals procedure; an
indication of the support and help available to employees who have a drug problem
together with the recognition that treatment may result in absence which will be
treated as normal sick leave; details of arrangements for re-instatement and return to
work following treatment and a statement assuring employees of confidentiality.

This was a popular but not well answered question with many candidates unable to
suggest an acceptable range of key points to be included in the policy.


12 EXTERNAL
The National Examination
Board in Occupational
Safety and Health
Dominus Way
Meridian Business Park
Leicester LE19 1QW
telephone +44 (0)116 2634700
fax +44 (0)116 2824000
email info@nebosh.org.uk
www.nebosh.org.uk