Which of the following is an example of an ergonomic risk factor?

• A. A repetitive wrist motion during welding
• B. A sudden slip on a wet floor
• C. A minor cut from metal
• D. A momentary glare from bright light

Answer: (A)

Ergonomic risk factors are aspects of how a job is designed that place repeated or sustained stress on the body, especially through repetitive motions, awkward postures, forceful exertions, vibration, or static loading. Repetitive wrist motion during welding is a classic example because the same wrist movements are repeated many times, often with limited support, which can strain tendons and nerves over time and lead to issues like carpal tunnel or tendinitis.

Slipping on a wet floor is a slip-and-fall hazard tied to surface conditions, not the body's repetitive or awkward loading. A minor cut from metal is a direct physical injury hazard from sharp edges. A momentary glare from bright light is a visual/lighting hazard, which can cause eye strain or distraction but isn’t fundamentally an ergonomic risk factor.