History Highlights
In what year did the General Assembly establish the first State Highway Commission?
1906
What does PPE stand for?
Personal Protective Equipment
Is slouching a good technique to practice while sitting at your desk?
No.
In fact, it can cause long-term musculoskeletal problems and reduce comfort and productivity.
What piece of PPE is essential to protect your head?
Head protection PPE, such as hard hats and safety helmets, is essential to prevent head injuries from impacts, falling objects, and electrical hazards in the workplace.
What do you call multiple extension cords that are connected?
Daisy-chained extension cords (or daisy chaining).
In what year was the Smart Tag electronic toll collection introduced?
1997
How often should PPE be inspected?
PPE should be inspected before every use, plus additional scheduled checks depending on the type and hazard level, to ensure it remains in safe, reliable condition.
General Rule
Before every use: Workers should perform a quick visual and functional check for obvious damage such as cracks, tears, fraying straps, discoloration, stiffness, or contamination. This is the baseline for all PPE.
Daily checks: Employees should inspect their own gear before starting work to confirm fit, function, and condition.
Where is your fire extinguisher located?
They should be located in clearly visible, easily accessible spots along normal paths of travel, typically near exits, hallways, kitchens, and areas with fire risks, following NFPA 10 and NFPA 1 placement rules.
Before operating heavy machinery what should you always do?
Before starting any heavy machinery, you should always perform a thorough pre‑operation safety check and prepare your work environment to protect yourself and others.
What do you do if your clothes catch fire?
Stop, Drop, and Roll: Do not run, as this can make the flames worse. Instead, lie down and roll around to extinguish the flames
In what year did the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry start operations?
1925
What are examples of eye protection?
Safety glasses, goggles, and face shields, each designed to protect against specific hazards in various environments.
Are you allowed to have a heater at your desk?
Yes, the Unit must have UL 1278 over-heat and tip-over protection.
TRUE or FALSE: When lifting heavy materials you use your back and don’t ask for help.
False.
You should not lift heavy materials by yourself if the load is too heavy, awkward, or requires a position that increases injury risk.
Safe lifting practices emphasize preparation, teamwork, and proper technique. OSHA and ergonomic safety guidelines state that if a load exceeds about half your body weight or is too large, bulky, or awkward to handle alone, you should ask for help or use mechanical aids like dollies, hand trucks, or pulleys. This reduces strain on your back and other muscles, and lowers the risk of injury.
What does the PASS acronym stand for in regard to fire extinguisher?
Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep.
What is the oldest remaining bridge owned and maintained by the Virginia Department of Transportation?
Historic Humpback Covered Bridge, built in 1857
True or False: All gloves offer the same level of protection.
False.
Different types of gloves, such as latex, nitrile, and vinyl, vary significantly in their durability and resistance to contaminants. Therefore, selecting the appropriate glove type for specific tasks is essential for safety and effectiveness.
True or False: Take the elevator to exit the building when there is a fire alarm.
False.
You must evacuate by stairs when a fire alarm sounds.
What does OSHA stand for?
Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
How many ways out of a room make a good fire escape plan?
Two ways out of every room:
Under the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956, the Virginia Department of Highways held its very first official interstate system hearing on February 20, 1957. What interstate system was this?
The 10-mile section of Interstate 95 south of Petersburg, Virginia.
When is it acceptable to not wear PPE?
Medical conditions or religious exemptions.
What are the most common workplace injuries?
Slips, trips, falls, overexertion, musculoskeletal injuries, and being exposed to harmful substances (chemicals & hazardous materials), which can significantly impact employee health and productivity.
What is the safe practice for handling hazardous materials?
To follow a combination of training, preparation, and strict safety protocols.
Key practices include:
Proper training- Ensure all personnel are trained on the hazards of the materials, safe handling procedures, and emergency response.
Use of PPE- Always wear the correct personal protective equipment (e.g., gloves, goggles, lab coat, respirator) and inspect it before use.
Risk assessment- Identify and evaluate potential hazards before handling.
Proper storage- Keep materials in compatible, leak-proof containers, in dry, cool, ventilated areas, and segregated from incompatible substances.
Clear labeling- Label all containers with hazard information and follow Globally Harmonized System (GHS) standards.
Ventilation and controls- Use ventilation hoods or fume extraction where needed, and maintain them in good condition.
Emergency preparedness- Have spill response plans, accessible safety equipment (e.g., eye wash, showers), and trained staff for first aid and evacuation.
Regular inspections- Check storage areas, containers, and equipment routinely to prevent accidents.
What is the fire triangle?
The fire triangle illustrates that fire requires three elements- heat, fuel, and oxygen to ignite and sustain itself, and removing any one of these elements will prevent or extinguish a fire.