Question

A common cause of engulfment accidents is when unstable material collapses under the

entrant creating a void. This is referred to as
a. breakaway
b. bridging
c. hidden collapse
d. sinking floor

Answer 1

The correct answer is option b. bridging. Engulfment accidents involving a collapse under an entrant, often creating a void due to unstable material, are referred to as 'bridging'. It occurs in environments where material may form a surface crust that can suddenly give way.

Step-by-step explanation:

Engulfment accidents typically occur in industrial or construction settings where workers deal with bulk materials like grain, sand, or coal.

Such accidents happen when these materials form a surface crust or bridge over a void. If a person walks across the unstable crust, it can collapse, creating a void which may engulf the individual, leading to them potentially suffocating or being crushed under the falling material.

The term 'bridging' describes this situation, which can occur in silos, hoppers, or other storage spaces. Employers must ensure that workers understand the dangers of these bridged areas and provide safety equipment and protocols to prevent accidents.