IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

What kind of injury can be caused by crushing between moving parts?

1. Chemical burns

2. Fractures

3. Soft tissue damage

4. Allergy reactions

The correct answer is: Fractures

Fractures can occur as a result of crushing between moving parts due to the intense pressure and force exerted during such an incident. When a body part, like a limb, becomes trapped between machinery or equipment that is in motion, the resultant force can exceed the bone's strength, leading to a break or fracture. This type of injury is particularly serious because it may involve not just the bone but also the surrounding soft tissues and structures, which can further complicate the injury. While other types of injuries, such as soft tissue damage, can occur in similar situations, the specific nature of fractures in the context of crushing injuries aligns most closely with the mechanics involved. Chemical burns pertain to exposure to hazardous substances rather than mechanical forces, and allergy reactions involve immune responses, which are unrelated to the physical impacts of machinery. Therefore, understanding the impact of crushing forces emphasizes the danger posed by moving machinery and the importance of appropriate safety measures to prevent such incidents.