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EHS Important Questions WITH Answers
Civil Engineering (CE)
Anna University
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CCE 332- ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND SAFETY
QUESTION BANK
UNIT-I
- Need for developing Environment, Health and Safety systems in work places
There are several compelling reasons to develop robust Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) systems in workplaces: Protecting People: EHS systems prioritize employee well-being by minimizing risks of accidents, injuries, and illnesses caused by workplace hazards. This not only reduces human suffering but also fosters a safer work environment, improving morale and potentially boosting productivity. Environmental Responsibility: EHS programs help businesses minimize their environmental impact by promoting practices that conserve resources, reduce pollution, and prevent ecological damage. This is crucial for both ethical and sustainable business practices. Compliance and Regulations: EHS systems ensure workplaces adhere to environmental and safety regulations set by government bodies. This helps businesses avoid costly fines and legal repercussions. Financial Benefits: By preventing accidents and illnesses, EHS systems can significantly reduce a company's financial burden. This includes lowering costs associated with medical treatment, worker compensation claims, and downtime due to injuries. Competitive Advantage: A strong EHS program demonstrates a company's commitment to its employees and the environment. This can enhance a business's reputation and give it a competitive edge in attracting and retaining talent, as well as attracting environmentally conscious investors and customers. In essence, EHS systems are not just about following regulations; they're about creating a culture of safety, environmental responsibility, and overall well-being for both employees and the surrounding environment.
- National Policy and Legislations on EHS in India
National Policy and Legislations on EHS in India
India has a two-pronged approach to regulating Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) in workplaces:
- National Policy:
- The National Policy on Safety, Health and Environment at Workplace (2009) provides a framework for building a preventative safety and health culture. It outlines goals and objectives for: o Establishing a statutory framework for EHS management. o Promoting a holistic Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) approach.
o Strengthening enforcement mechanisms. o Raising awareness and fostering a culture of safety. o Developing national standards and improving compliance. o Encouraging research and development in EHS.
- Environmental and Safety Legislations:
India has a comprehensive set of environmental and safety legislations overseen by various government ministries. Some key ones include:
- The Factories Act, 1948: Regulates working conditions, safety standards, and welfare amenities in factories.
- The Mines Act, 1952: Governs safety and health standards in mines.
- The Building and Other Construction Workers Act, 1996: Focuses on safety and welfare of construction workers.
- The Environment Protection Act, 1986: Empowers the government to regulate industries to protect and improve the environment.
- The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974: Governs the prevention and control of water pollution.
- The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981: Focuses on the prevention and control of air pollution.
These are just a few examples, and there are many other EHS-related legislations applicable to specific industries and hazards.
Key Points to Remember:
- The National Policy provides an overarching framework, while specific legislations define regulations and compliance requirements.
- The government is committed to reviewing and improving the National Policy and EHS legislations through consultations with stakeholders.
- Effective implementation of these policies and legislations is crucial for ensuring safe and healthy workplaces and a sustainable environment in India.
- Regulations and Codes of Practice
Regulations and codes of practice are the cornerstones of a strong
Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) program. Let's break them down:
Regulations:
- Legally Binding: These are enforceable laws set by government bodies.
Failure to comply can result in fines, legal action, and even shutdowns.
- Specificity: Regulations typically address specific aspects of EHS, such as
permissible exposure limits for hazardous materials, waste disposal
procedures, or fire safety protocols.
- Varied Sources: EHS regulations can come from various government
agencies depending on the industry and potential hazards. For example,
Monitoring and Identifying Hazards:
- Workplace Inspections: Trade union safety representatives have the right to inspect workplaces to identify potential hazards related to safety, health, and the environment. This could involve checking for unsafe work practices, malfunctioning equipment, or inadequate ventilation.
- Employee Concerns: They act as a channel for workers to voice their EHS concerns. They can investigate these concerns and raise them with management to ensure they are addressed promptly.
Promoting Safe Work Practices:
- Education and Training: Safety representatives can advocate for and participate in developing training programs to educate employees on safe work practices, proper handling of hazardous materials, and emergency procedures.
- Risk Assessments: They can contribute to risk assessments by providing insights from the employee perspective and identifying potential risks that management might overlook.
Ensuring Compliance with Regulations:
- Knowledge of Regulations: Trade union representatives are often knowledgeable about relevant EHS regulations. They can ensure management is aware of their legal obligations and advocate for adherence to these regulations.
- Liaison with Regulatory Bodies: In some cases, safety representatives can directly contact regulatory bodies to report serious safety or environmental concerns if they feel management is not taking appropriate action.
Collaboration and Consultation:
- Safety Committees: Trade union safety representatives typically hold seats on workplace safety committees. This allows them to participate in discussions about EHS policies, procedures, and incident investigations.
- Negotiating EHS Policies: They can play a crucial role in negotiating EHS policies with management, ensuring these policies are comprehensive, effective, and address employee concerns.
Overall, trade union safety representatives are key advocates for a safe, healthy, and environmentally responsible workplace. Their proactive approach helps to:
- Reduce workplace accidents and illnesses.
- Minimize the environmental impact of a company's operations.
- Create a culture of safety and shared responsibility for EHS in the workplace.
By having a strong voice and a clear understanding of EHS regulations, trade union safety representatives contribute significantly to a safer and healthier work environment for everyone.
- Write in detail about Ergonomics
Ergonomics plays a critical role in Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) by focusing on designing workplaces to fit the worker, not the other way around. This proactive approach helps prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and other health issues, while also contributing to a safer and more productive work environment.
Here's how ergonomics integrates with EHS:
Reducing Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs):
- WMSDs, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and back pain, are a major concern in many workplaces. Poor posture, repetitive motions, and awkward lifting techniques can all contribute to these conditions.
- Ergonomics identifies these risk factors and implements solutions like adjustable workstations, ergonomic keyboards, and proper lifting techniques. This reduces strain on muscles and joints, preventing injuries and illnesses.
Enhancing Safety and Well-being:
- Ergonomics promotes proper posture and reduces fatigue, which can lead to slips, trips, and falls. By designing workstations and tools for optimal use, ergonomics helps prevent accidents and injuries.
- A well-designed workspace minimizes physical stress and discomfort, leading to improved employee well-being and morale. This can reduce absenteeism and presenteeism (being physically present but not fully productive due to discomfort).
Environmental Considerations:
- Ergonomics can also contribute to a healthier environment. For instance, proper lighting reduces eye strain and the need for excessive energy consumption.
- Additionally, ergonomic design principles often lead to more efficient work processes, which can minimize waste and resource consumption.
Overall Benefits of Ergonomics in EHS:
- Reduced Costs: By preventing injuries and illnesses, ergonomics can significantly reduce healthcare costs, worker compensation claims, and downtime due to employee absences.
- Increased Productivity: Comfortable and efficient workplaces lead to a more focused and productive workforce.
- Improved Employee Morale: A commitment to ergonomics demonstrates that a company values its employees' well-being, leading to higher morale and job satisfaction.
- Enhanced Safety Culture: Ergonomics programs contribute to a culture of safety and risk prevention within an organization.
o Biological: Bacteria, viruses, fungi, allergens. o Ergonomic: Poor workstation design, repetitive motions, awkward postures. o Psychosocial: Stress, bullying, violence.
- Utilizes various tools and techniques: o Workplace surveys: Identifying potential hazards through walkthroughs, interviews, and monitoring. o Air sampling: Measuring airborne contaminants like dust or fumes. o Noise monitoring: Assessing noise levels and potential hearing damage risks. o Biological monitoring: Evaluating workers' exposure to biological agents. o Control measures: Implementing strategies to minimize exposure to hazards, such as ventilation, personal protective equipment (PPE), and process modifications.
Why are OH&H crucial in EHS?
- Protecting Worker Health: They are the primary line of defense against work- related illnesses and injuries, safeguarding employees' physical and mental well- being.
- Legal Compliance: OH&H programs help businesses comply with various occupational health and safety regulations.
- Reduced Costs: Preventing work-related health problems translates to lower healthcare costs, worker compensation claims, and absenteeism.
- Improved Productivity: Healthy and comfortable employees are more focused and productive.
- Enhanced Safety Culture: A strong OH&H program fosters a culture of safety and risk prevention within the organization.
The Interconnectedness of OH&H:
OH&H are not isolated disciplines; they work hand-in-hand:
- Information from occupational health surveillance can inform hygiene interventions to control hazards and prevent future illnesses.
- Conversely, data from hygiene monitoring can help identify potential health risks and guide health surveillance efforts.
Conclusion:
By effectively integrating occupational health and hygiene practices into an EHS program, businesses can create a safe, healthy, and productive work environment for their employees. This not only benefits worker well-being but also contributes to the company's success.
- Explain the Categories of health hazards
Health hazards in the workplace can be broadly categorized into five main types:
- Chemical Hazards:
- Involve exposure to chemicals that can cause harm through inhalation, ingestion, skin contact, or eye contact.
- Examples include: o Toxic chemicals that can cause poisoning or organ damage. o Carcinogens that can increase the risk of cancer. o Irritants that can cause skin or eye irritation. o Allergens that can trigger allergic reactions.
- Biological Hazards:
- Arise from exposure to biological agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
- These agents can cause infectious diseases, respiratory problems, and other health issues.
- Examples include: o Bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella that can cause foodborne illnesses. o Viruses like influenza or hepatitis that can cause respiratory or liver problems. o Fungi that can cause skin infections or respiratory problems.
- Physical Hazards:
- Involve exposure to non-chemical elements in the work environment that can cause physical harm.
- Examples include: o Noise: Excessive noise levels can lead to hearing loss and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). o Vibration: Exposure to vibration can cause hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) or carpal tunnel syndrome. o Radiation: Exposure to ionizing radiation can increase the risk of cancer. o Non-ionizing radiation (e., ultraviolet radiation) can cause skin damage and eye problems. o Extreme temperatures: Working in very hot or cold environments can lead to heat stress, hypothermia, or other health problems.
- Ergonomic Hazards:
- Result from poorly designed workplaces or tasks that can strain muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
- These hazards can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) such as back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and neck pain.
- Examples include: o Awkward postures: Being forced to maintain awkward postures for extended periods can increase strain on muscles. o Repetitive motions: Performing the same repetitive motions over and over can lead to MSDs. o Improper lifting techniques: Lifting heavy objects incorrectly can cause back injuries.
Contaminant: Lead (Pb)
- Exposure Pathway: Inhalation of dust containing lead particles (common in older buildings and industries).
- Human Response: Lead poisoning can cause a range of health problems, including: o Developmental delays and learning problems in children. o High blood pressure, heart disease, and kidney problems in adults.
Contaminant: Benzene (industrial solvent)
- Exposure Pathway: Inhalation of benzene vapors or skin contact during handling.
- Human Response: Short-term exposure can cause dizziness, headaches, and nausea. Chronic exposure can lead to leukemia and other blood disorders.
Contaminant: Arsenic (naturally occurring in some soils and water sources)
- Exposure Pathway: Ingestion of contaminated drinking water or food.
- Human Response: Acute exposure can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. Chronic exposure can increase the risk of cancer and skin problems.
Importance of Understanding Exposure Pathways and Responses:
- Risk Assessment: Identifying potential exposure pathways helps assess the risks associated with a particular contaminant.
- Preventive Measures: Knowing the exposure pathways allows for targeted interventions to prevent exposure. This could involve ventilation systems to control airborne contaminants, using personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize skin contact, or implementing proper sanitation practices to prevent ingestion.
- Medical Management: Understanding the route of exposure can guide medical professionals in diagnosing and treating exposure-related illnesses.
By understanding the links between exposure pathways and human responses, we can create safer environments, minimize health risks, and promote better public health outcomes.
- Occupational exposure limits Hierarchy of control measures
Occupational Exposure Limits (OELs) and the Hierarchy of Controls
Occupational Exposure Limits (OELs) are benchmarks used to assess potential health risks from airborne workplace contaminants. These limits establish the maximum concentration of a particular substance that a worker can be safely exposed to over a specific period (typically an 8-hour workday).
Hierarchy of Controls: This framework outlines a tiered approach to managing workplace hazards, prioritizing the most effective methods first.
Here's how these two concepts work together to safeguard worker health:
OELs Set the Threshold:
- OELs provide a science-based reference point for evaluating potential health risks associated with airborne contaminants.
- If air monitoring reveals contaminant levels exceeding the OEL, it indicates a potential hazard requiring action.
Hierarchy of Controls Guides Risk Reduction:
The hierarchy of controls offers a systematic approach to reduce exposure to airborne contaminants and keep them below the OEL:
- Elimination: The most effective approach is to eliminate the hazard altogether by substituting the material with a safer alternative or changing the work process.
- Substitution: If elimination is not feasible, substituting the hazardous material with a less toxic one can significantly reduce exposure.
- During tasks where there's a potential for accidental exposure, even with engineering controls in place.
- For specific situations like emergencies, maintenance procedures, or decontamination activities.
Selection Criteria for Effective PPE:
Choosing the right PPE for the job is crucial. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Hazard Identification: Identify the specific hazards the PPE needs to protect against (e., dust, chemicals, falling objects).
- Type of PPE: Select the appropriate PPE type based on the hazard (e., respirators for airborne contaminants, safety glasses for eye protection, gloves for chemical handling).
- Fit and Comfort: Ensure the PPE fits the worker properly for optimal protection and comfort. Ill-fitting PPE can be ineffective and even dangerous.
- Compatibility: Certain PPE combinations might not be compatible. For instance, some respirator types might not work well with certain safety glasses.
- Maintenance and Replacement: Establish procedures for regular maintenance, cleaning, and replacement of PPE to ensure its continued effectiveness.
- User Training: Train workers on the proper selection, use, maintenance, and limitations of their PPE.
Common Types of PPE:
- Respiratory protection: Respirators protect workers from inhaling harmful dusts, fumes, vapors, or gases. Different types of respirators offer varying levels of protection depending on the specific hazard.
- Eye and face protection: Safety glasses, goggles, and face shields safeguard eyes and face from splashes, flying objects, dust, and radiation.
- Hand protection: Gloves shield hands from chemicals, abrasives, extreme temperatures, and cuts. Material selection is crucial based on the specific hazard.
- Head protection: Hard hats protect workers from falling objects and impacts to the head.
- Foot protection: Safety boots or shoes shield feet from punctures, slips, spills, and electrical hazards.
PPE is not a substitute for eliminating hazards or implementing engineering controls. It's crucial to utilize the hierarchy of controls and prioritize eliminating hazards at the source whenever possible. However, when other controls are insufficient, properly selected and used PPE plays a vital role in safeguarding worker health and well-being.
UNIT-III
- Describe the Features of Satisfactory and Safe design of work premises
A satisfactory and safe work premise design integrates principles that prioritize both employee well-being and efficient operations:
Safety Features:
- Hazard Mitigation: The design should proactively identify and eliminate or minimize potential hazards. This could involve aspects like: o Safeguarding against falls with guardrails, proper floor surfaces, and secure stairways. o Electrical safety with proper wiring, grounding, and GFCI outlets in wet areas. o Fire safety with clear escape routes, fire extinguishers, and proper signage. o Machine safety with guards, safety interlocks, and proper lockout/tagout procedures. o Ergonomic design to prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) from awkward postures or repetitive motions.
- Emergency Preparedness: The design should facilitate a safe response to emergencies. This includes: o Clearly marked and accessible emergency exits. o Adequate fire escapes and evacuation plans. o Proper ventilation systems to remove smoke and fumes in case of fire. o Emergency eyewash stations and safety showers for specific chemical hazards. o Designated assembly points for evacuation procedures.
- Health and Hygiene: The design should promote a healthy and hygienic work environment: o Adequate lighting to prevent eye strain and ensure clear visibility for tasks. o Proper ventilation to maintain good air quality and control dust, fumes, and odors. o Clean and well-maintained restrooms and break rooms. o Access to clean drinking water and handwashing facilities. o Temperature control to maintain a comfortable working environment.
Satisfactory Design Elements:
- Space Optimization: The layout should provide adequate workspace for each employee, considering storage needs and traffic flow. This prevents overcrowding and promotes efficient work processes.
- Accessibility: Workspaces, restrooms, and amenities should be accessible for all employees, including those with disabilities. This ensures everyone can work comfortably and safely.
- Natural Light and Ventilation: Maximizing access to natural light and providing good ventilation can improve employee morale, focus, and overall well-being.
- Aesthetics and Ambiance: A well-designed and visually appealing workspace can create a more positive and productive work environment. This includes aspects like color schemes, noise control, and access to green spaces if possible.
Additional Considerations:
b) Lighting and Color:
Lighting and color have a significant impact on both safety and employee well-being in the workplace.
Lighting:
- Proper Illumination: Adequate lighting levels are crucial for visual tasks, preventing eye strain and fatigue.
- Task Lighting: Provide additional task lighting for specific activities that require high visual acuity.
- Glare Control: Minimize glare from windows, overhead lights, or reflective surfaces to prevent discomfort and improve visibility.
- Natural Light: Maximize access to natural light whenever possible, as it can boost mood, alertness, and productivity.
Color:
- Safety Colors: Use standardized safety colors to mark hazards, fire exits, and emergency equipment.
- Psychology of Color: Consider the psychological impact of colors. For example, warm colors like yellows and oranges can create a stimulating environment, while cool colors like blues and greens can promote calmness and focus.
- Task-Specific Colors: Select colors that enhance specific tasks. For instance, brighter colors might be suitable for high-energy areas, while calmer colors might be better for focused work.
c) Ventilation and Heat Control:
Proper ventilation and heat control are essential for maintaining a comfortable and healthy work environment.
Ventilation:
- Air Quality: Maintain good air quality by removing dust, fumes, contaminants, and excess moisture through ventilation systems.
- Fresh Air Intake: Provide adequate fresh air intake to dilute pollutants and prevent stuffiness.
- Exhaust Ventilation: Implement localized exhaust systems to remove contaminants generated at the source, such as from welding or painting activities.
Heat Control:
Temperature Regulation: Maintain a comfortable temperature range to prevent heat stress or cold stress.
Air Conditioning: Utilize air conditioning systems to cool down workplaces in hot climates.
Heating Systems: Provide proper heating systems to maintain comfortable temperatures in cold climates.
Workplace Layout: Consider the layout of workstations and equipment to minimize heat generation and optimize airflow.
Overall Impact:
Good housekeeping, lighting & color, ventilation & heat control work together to create a safe, healthy, and productive work environment. By implementing these practices, businesses can:
- Reduce accidents and injuries.
- Improve employee well-being and morale.
- Enhance productivity and efficiency.
- Create a positive and professional work environment.
- Explain in detail about
a). Noise, Chemical and Radiation Safety
b). Electrical Safety
c). Fire Safety
a) Noise, Chemical and Radiation Safety
Noise Safety:
- Hazard: Excessive noise exposure can lead to hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and other health problems.
- Control Measures: o Hearing Protection: Provide and enforce the use of earplugs or earmuffs for workers exposed to high noise levels. o Engineering Controls: Implement engineering controls like noise barriers, enclosures, or quieter machinery to reduce noise at the source. o Administrative Controls: Limit exposure time to noisy areas, rotate workers in high-noise environments, and establish hearing conservation programs.
Chemical Safety:
- Hazard: Exposure to chemicals can cause a variety of health problems depending on the specific chemical, including poisoning, respiratory problems, skin irritation, and cancer.
- Control Measures: o Chemical Inventory: Maintain a comprehensive inventory of all chemicals used in the workplace. o Safety Data Sheets (SDS): Ensure readily available Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all chemicals, providing information on hazards, safe handling procedures, and first-aid measures. o Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide and enforce the use of appropriate PPE like gloves, safety glasses, respirators, or hazmat suits based on the chemical hazards.
o Fire Extinguishers: Provide and train workers on the proper use of appropriate fire extinguishers for different types of fires. o Evacuation Plans: Develop and practice clear and well-defined evacuation plans for all employees. o Fire Drills: Conduct regular fire drills to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of a fire emergency. o Emergency Exits: Maintain clear and unobstructed access to designated emergency exits.
Remember:
- These are just general guidelines. Specific control measures will vary depending on the specific workplace hazards.
- It is crucial to conduct regular workplace hazard assessments to identify potential risks and implement appropriate control measures.
- Employee training on safety procedures and safe work practices is essential for preventing accidents and injuries.
By implementing these control measures and fostering a culture of safety, businesses can
create a safer and healthier work environment for their employees.
- Safety at Construction sites, ETP
Safety at Construction Sites and ETPs (Effluent Treatment Plants)
Construction sites and ETPs (Effluent Treatment Plants) present unique safety challenges. Here's a breakdown of key safety considerations for each:
Construction Sites:
- Fall Hazards: Falls are a leading cause of injuries on construction sites. o Control Measures: Utilize guardrails, safety nets, and fall arrest systems. Ensure proper scaffolding construction and use.
- Electrocution: Electrical hazards are prevalent due to power tools and temporary wiring. o Control Measures: Ground electrical equipment, use GFCIs, and provide proper training on safe electrical work practices.
- Slips, Trips, and Falls: Uneven surfaces, debris, and poor housekeeping contribute to these hazards. o Control Measures: Maintain clean and clutter-free work areas, address uneven surfaces promptly, and ensure proper footwear is worn.
- Struck-by Hazards: Workers can be struck by falling objects, moving equipment, or tools. o Control Measures: Implement proper housekeeping, establish designated work zones, and ensure clear communication between workers.
- Noise Hazards: Construction equipment can generate excessive noise levels. o Control Measures: Provide and enforce the use of hearing protection.
- Dust Inhalation: Dust from construction activities can cause respiratory problems.
o Control Measures: Use dust suppression methods like water sprays, wear respiratory protection if needed.
ETPs (Effluent Treatment Plants):
- Confined Space Hazards: ETPs often have confined spaces like tanks and vessels that can have low oxygen levels or contain toxic fumes. o Control Measures: Develop and enforce confined space entry procedures, including proper ventilation, testing for atmospheric hazards, and buddy systems.
- Chemical Hazards: ETPs handle various chemicals for treatment processes. o Control Measures: Follow proper storage and handling procedures, provide and enforce PPE use, maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all chemicals, and train workers on potential hazards.
- Slips and Falls: Wet and slippery surfaces are common in ETPs. o Control Measures: Use slip-resistant footwear, keep walkways clear, and address spills promptly.
- Biological Hazards: ETPs treat wastewater, which may contain harmful bacteria and pathogens. o Control Measures: Vaccinate workers against potential diseases, provide proper hygiene facilities, and wear appropriate PPE.
- Electrical Hazards: ETPs rely on electrical equipment for operation. o Control Measures: Implement electrical safety measures similar to construction sites, with trained personnel performing maintenance.
- Noise Hazards: Pumps and other equipment can generate noise. o Control Measures: Implement noise control measures like enclosures or provide hearing protection.
General Safety Practices (applicable to both):
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Enforce the use of appropriate PPE based on the specific hazards.
- Training: Provide comprehensive safety training to all workers on potential hazards, safe work practices, and emergency procedures.
- Hazard Communication: Maintain clear and accessible Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and signage to inform workers about potential hazards.
- Incident Reporting: Encourage workers to report all safety incidents, near misses, and unsafe conditions.
- Safety Inspections: Conduct regular safety inspections to identify and address potential hazards.
Remember:
- Construction sites and ETPs require a proactive approach to safety, with a focus on hazard identification, risk mitigation, and promoting a safety culture.
- Regulatory requirements for safety vary by location, so ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.
By implementing these comprehensive safety measures, construction companies and ETP operators can create a safer and healthier work environment for their employees.
EHS Important Questions WITH Answers
Course: Civil Engineering (CE)
University: Anna University
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