Which of the following is a health risk associated with boiler operation?

The correct answer identifies steam burns and fumes exposure as a significant health risk associated with boiler operation. Boilers operate by heating water to produce steam, which involves high pressures and temperatures. This creates an inherent risk of steam leaks or ruptures, which can result in severe burns if personnel come into contact with escaping steam or hot surfaces. Additionally, the combustion processes in fuel-fired boilers can produce harmful fumes, including carbon monoxide and other hazardous emissions, which pose respiratory risks to operators and nearby workers. Therefore, understanding and mitigating these risks is crucial for maintaining a safe operating environment around boilers.

While exposure to sunlight and hearing loss from loud noises can be occupational hazards in various settings, they are not specifically linked to boiler operation. Likewise, although electromagnetic fields can be a concern in specific industries, they are not among the primary health risks typically associated with the operation of boilers. Understanding the specific hazards related to steam and combustion is essential for boiler safety training and operational protocols.