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Operatives and Specialists Test 6 (2023)

Construction Test > Operatives and Specialists Test 6 (2023)

You have 45 minutes to answer 50 multiple choice CSCS Health, Safety and Evironment Test questions for Operatives and Specialists. You need to answer at least 45 out of 50 questions correctly to pass. Answers may be reviewed after each question or at the end of the test. Good luck!

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List of questions in above test (quick view). Click question box to reveal correct answer.
1. Who is responsible for health and safety on site? Give ONE answer
A Everyone
B On-site management
C The employer
D The health and safety manager
Correct Answer: A Everyone
Explanation: Everyone is responsible for upholding site health and safety standards.
2. What is the status of all information recorded in the accident book? Give ONE answer
A It can be consulted by any interested party
B It is confidential
C It is held for one month then destroyed
D Potential employees can request access to a site's accident book before agreeing to work
Correct Answer: B It is confidential
Explanation: The accident book is confidential.
3. What MAIN hazard do bird droppings create if disturbed? Give ONE answer
A They attract vermin and predatory animals to the area
B They create a smell which can cause nausea and lightheadedness
C They create dust that can cause dangerous respiratory hazards
D They create mess which affects workplace tidiness
Correct Answer: C They create dust that can cause dangerous respiratory hazards
Explanation: Disturbed droppings create dangerous airborne particles.
4. You are working in a drainage tunnel and can smell rotting eggs. What does this mean? Give ONE answer
A There is a buildup of hydrogen monoxide
B There is a buildup of hydrogen sulphide
C There is in imminent risk of explosion
D You are suffering from neurological damage
Correct Answer: B There is a buildup of hydrogen sulphide
Explanation: Hydrogen sulphide smells like rotting eggs.
5. Which of the following gases can prove swiftly fatal in high concentrations? Check ALL that apply
A Argon
B Carbon dioxide
C Carbon monoxide
D Hydrogen sulphide
E Methane
Correct Answer: B Carbon dioxide, C Carbon monoxide, D Hydrogen sulphide
Explanation: All these gases can swiftly prove fatal.
6. Hazardous vapours are MOST likely to be produced by which substance? Give ONE answer
A Asbestos
B Epoxy resin
C Rubber
D Wet mortar
Correct Answer: B Epoxy resin
Explanation: Epoxy resin will produce dangerous vapour.
7. Which TWO factors make on-site electricity distribution systems potentially more hazardous? Give TWO answers
A They are often poorly fitted
B They are prone to damage
C They are temporary systems
D They prioritise efficiency over safety
E You can never be sure when a cable is live
Correct Answer: B They are prone to damage, C They are temporary systems
Explanation: On-site electric systems are designed with safety in mind; nevertheless, they are temporary and prone to damage.
8. Which colour indicates the highest voltage? Give ONE answer
A Blue
B Brown
C Red
D Yellow
Correct Answer: C Red
Explanation: Red is standardly used to indicate 400 volts.
9. You are in an excavation and notice an exposed cable running into the trench. What should you do? Give ONE answer
A Assume it could be a live cable. Continue working and watch for any developing hazards
B Assume it is a dead cable, as it would not otherwise be exposed
C Assume it is a live cable. Stay at least 1 metre away at all times
D Assume it is a live cable. Stop working immediately and report it
Correct Answer: D Assume it is a live cable. Stop working immediately and report it
Explanation: Always assume exposed wires and cables could be live. If you see one, you must stop work immediately and report it.
10. How can you find out the right PPE and tools you will need for a job? Give ONE answer
A You can read the labels and manuals
B You can refer to the task's safe system of work, or the method statement
C You can see what risks come up as you begin working
D You can use your own discretion
Correct Answer: B You can refer to the task's safe system of work, or the method statement
Explanation: The safe system of work or method statement for every task will detail the correct PPE and tools to use.
11. You are using a band saw. Which of the following is TRUE about the wheel's speed and the machine's speed? Give ONE answer
A The machine must be slower than the wheel
B The wheel must be slower than the machine
C They must match
D You must ensure the difference does not become too large
Correct Answer: C They must match
Explanation: Wheel and machine speeds must match when cutting with equipment.
12. Before you begin a job using a chainsaw, what TWO items of PPE must you make sure to have? Give TWO answers
A A mask
B An emergency alarm
C Full protective clothing designed for chainsaws
D Head protection
E Thick clothing
Correct Answer: C Full protective clothing designed for chainsaws, D Head protection
Explanation: Chainsaw work requires you to wear a full suit of chainsaw protective clothing, and proper head protection.
13. How can you reverse the effects of hearing loss? Give ONE answer
A You can access treatment through your employer
B You can wait for it to recover over time
C You can wear ear protection
D You cannot
Correct Answer: D You cannot
Explanation: Hearing damage can be permanent and irreversible.
14. Poor circulation in your fingers persists beyond winter, and your doctor diagnoses you with HAVS. Should you tell your employer? Give ONE answer
A No, because there is nothing they can do
B No, because they will may dismiss you
C Yes, because they are entitled to make an insurance claim
D Yes, because they will need to inform the HSE
Correct Answer: D Yes, because they will need to inform the HSE
Explanation: You must inform your employer, because they are legally obliged to report this to the HSE.
15. Approximately what percentage of construction waste goes into landfill every year? Give ONE answer
A 2%
B 20%
C 50%
D 80%
Correct Answer: B 20%
Explanation: Around 100 million tonnes of waste are produced by the construction industry every year. About 20 million tonnes of this goes to landfill.
16. How should waste be disposed of on-site? Give ONE answer
A It should be removed by specialists for off-site sorting
B It should be safely burned
C It should be sorted into different types
D It should not be produced
Correct Answer: C It should be sorted into different types
Explanation: Waste should be sorted by type to allow different kinds of waste to be recycled or disposed of correctly.
17. In which TWO of the following ways might harmful substances enter watercourses? Give TWO answers
A Eutrophication
B They are transported off site by licensed contractors
C They are washed out of badly lined skips
D They run off-site into rivers
Correct Answer: C They are washed out of badly lined skips, D They run off-site into rivers
Explanation: Site run-off and incorrectly stored materials can result in substances entering watercourses (rivers, lakes, etc.)
18. You are using a solvent near a freshwater stream. What precaution should you take? Give ONE answer
A Cover part of the stream with a protective tarpaulin
B Dig a narrow gulley to divert any spills away from the stream
C If possible, maintain a minimum distance of 10 metres from the stream
D Place a ground-level barrier between yourself and the stream
Correct Answer: C If possible, maintain a minimum distance of 10 metres from the stream
Explanation: Maintain a distance of 10 metres from the stream where possible.
19. What are TWO potential consequences of damaging protected plants during construction? Give TWO answers
A The species' rate of decline may increase
B You may be fined
C You may be imprisoned
D You may develop health problems from toxic plants
E Your employer may sue you
Correct Answer: A The species' rate of decline may increase, B You may be fined
Explanation: Plants may be protected if their species is in decline. Damaging them could result in fines for you or the company.
20. How will you know the location of underground services before excavation work begins? Give ONE answer
A It will be clearly indicated
B You must NEVER work where there are underground services
C You will use specialist detecting equipment
D Your employer will arrange to have plans sent through by the utility owners
Correct Answer: D Your employer will arrange to have plans sent through by the utility owners
Explanation: Your employer is responsible for sourcing information about the location of underground services.
21. When should breathing apparatuses be recommended? Give ONE answer
A If a worker has an existing lung condition
B In deep excavations
C Only as a last resort
D They should never be recommended
Correct Answer: C Only as a last resort
Explanation: Breathing apparatuses may appear in safe systems of work, but should only be used as a last resort.
22. You are working in a confined space, and a colleague starts to complain of dizziness. What should you do? Give ONE answer
A Check if you can smell gas where they are
B Check that they are sufficiently hydrated
C Encourage them to take deep breaths and rest
D Ensure everyone immediately exits the space
Correct Answer: D Ensure everyone immediately exits the space
Explanation: Dizziness can indicate dangerous levels of fumes or gases. You must ensure everyone is warned and leaves the space immediately.
23. Breathing difficulties will occur when oxygen levels in the air fall below what level? Give ONE answer
A 10%
B 30%
C 40%
D 60%
Correct Answer: A 10%
Explanation: Normal air is about 21% oxygen. Levels below 10% will cause respiratory difficulties.
24. Where MIGHT a risk assessment be conducted for the risk of falling from height? Check ALL that apply
A Working alone
B Working in an excavation
C Working next to an excavation
D Working on a fragile roof
Correct Answer: B Working in an excavation, C Working next to an excavation, D Working on a fragile roof
Explanation: Any situation in which a harmful fall might take place may require a risk assessment. This includes work inside or next to excavations.
25. How can a worker determine the best course of action to follow when working at height? Give ONE answer
A Assess the situation and proceed in the safest possible way
B Find the fastest way to get the job done
C Refer to past experience with similar jobs
D Refer to the hierarchy of control
Correct Answer: D Refer to the hierarchy of control
Explanation: The hierarchy of control should be consulted when deciding what to do at height.
26. How should materials be stored on a scaffold working platform? Give ONE answer
A Fix a net or brick guards along the edge
B Materials must never be stored here
C They must be fixed with warning tape
D They must be stored alongside a stable wall
Correct Answer: A Fix a net or brick guards along the edge
Explanation: Netting and brick guards are safe ways to reduce the risk of materials falling.
27. Where are you permitted to smoke on site? Give ONE answer
A In areas where active work is not taking place
B In areas where flammable materials are not in use
C In permitted areas designated by your employer
D Nowhere
Correct Answer: C In permitted areas designated by your employer
Explanation: Smoking is only permitted in designated areas provided by your employer.
28. Fireproof cages are used to store liquified petroleum gas (LPG). Why? Give ONE answer
A To ensure stock is visible and can be monitored from a safe distance
B To limit the damage caused by shrapnel in case of explosion
C To make it harder to steal
D To prevent the buildup of vapours in case of leakage
Correct Answer: D To prevent the buildup of vapours in case of leakage
Explanation: Storing LPG in cages means there will not be a build-up of vapours in case of leaks.
29. Which of the following is TRUE about the health risks posed by hazardous substances? Give ONE answer
A They are always treatable
B They are rare but potentially fatal
C You may only begin to notice them over time
D You will notice them immediately upon exposure
Correct Answer: C You may only begin to notice them over time
Explanation: Health risks posed by hazardous substances may only begin to show over time. Damage cannot always be treated, and it is not uncommon.
30. Whilst sanding down wood you begin to feel ill. What should you do? Give ONE answer
A Pause work to check your PPE has been correctly fitted
B Pause work to hydrate and eat something
C Stop work and report this to your supervisor
D Stop work and sit in an upright position
Correct Answer: C Stop work and report this to your supervisor
Explanation: You should stop work and report symptoms to your supervisor if you begin to feel ill whilst working with hazardous substances.
31. You are working outdoors in summer. What is one thing you should ensure you do? Give ONE answer
A Drink plenty of water
B Ensure you have had sufficient vitamins
C Stop work until the sun subsides in the afternoon
D Wear mosquito repellent
Correct Answer: A Drink plenty of water
Explanation: Ensure you are sufficiently hydrated, especially when working in the sun.
32. Which of the following best describes leptospirosis? Give ONE answer
A It is caused by a virus passed on from infected rats
B It is caused by bacteria carried in infected rat urine
C It is caused by bacteria cultivated in stagnant bodies of water
D It is caused by mites that live on rats
Correct Answer: B It is caused by bacteria carried in infected rat urine
Explanation: Infected rats will carry the bacteria in their urine.
33. What are TWO ways you can contract Weil's disease? Give TWO answers
A The bacteria enters your body through grazes or cuts
B The bacteria is absorbed through your epidermis
C The bacteria is ingested as you put your hand near your mouth (e.g., when smoking, or eating)
D The bacteria is inhaled
Correct Answer: A The bacteria enters your body through grazes or cuts, C The bacteria is ingested as you put your hand near your mouth (e.g., when smoking, or eating)
Explanation: Bacteria may enter through cuts or abrasions in the skin, or through hand-to-mouth contact.
34. Which of the following is TRUE about Weil's disease? Give ONE answer
A It is a minor health condition, but may cause chronic irritation
B It is untreatable, and may cause serious health complications
C It leads to serious complications if left untreated, and can prove swiftly fatal
D Its effects will only gradually begin to appear weeks after ingesting the bacteria
Correct Answer: C It leads to serious complications if left untreated, and can prove swiftly fatal
Explanation: Untreated Weil's disease can lead to serious complications, and in extreme cases, death in less than two months.
35. Your hands have become particularly dirty. What should you use in this case to clean them? Give ONE answer
A Consult on-site medical staff - you may need prescription soap
B Low-concentration bleach
C The appropriate solvent
D Water and soap
Correct Answer: D Water and soap
Explanation: Soap and water is the best way to keep your hands clean. Never use solvents.
36. How long can prohibited levels of cannabis remain in your system? Give ONE answer
A All cannabis traces will be flushed out within 48 hours
B Cannabis taken in moderation will be flushed out within 24 hours
C Trace levels can remain in your system for months
D Trace levels can remain in your system for weeks
Correct Answer: C Trace levels can remain in your system for months
Explanation: Cannabis can remain at detectable levels in your system for months.
37. You are concerned that your colleague might be becoming depressed. What should you do? Give ONE answer
A Inform all members of their team
B Inform your employer
C Offer to speak with them about it
D You should not do anything
Correct Answer: C Offer to speak with them about it
Explanation: If you suspect a colleague's mental health may be suffering, your first step should always be to check in with them
38. What should you be aware of when having a drink before shift? Give ONE answer
A Permissible blood alcohol levels at work may be lower than the legal driving limit
B You must ensure you also have a meal
C You must not drink hard liquor
D You must not pass the legal driving limit
Correct Answer: A Permissible blood alcohol levels at work may be lower than the legal driving limit
Explanation: The permitted blood alcohol threshold at your place of work may be lower than the legal driving limit.
39. The acronym TILE is an easy way of ensuring all aspects of a safe system of work for manual handling have been covered. What does it stand for? Give ONE answer
A Task, individual, length, execution
B Task, individual, load, environment
C Time, insurance, leverage, ease
D Trip hazards, individual, length, emergency procedure
Correct Answer: B Task, individual, load, environment
Explanation: Task, individual, load, and environment are the main aspects that a safe system of work for manual handling must take into account.
40. What should you do with your spine when manually handling? Give ONE answer
A Keep it as straight as possible for balance
B Keep it bent so the load remains near the floor
C Keep it slightly twisted to evenly distribute the load
D Try to keep it naturally curved to avoid strain
Correct Answer: D Try to keep it naturally curved to avoid strain
Explanation: Always try keep your spine at a natural curvature.
41. You sustained a neck sprain playing sport outside of work. Now you have been asked to help unload a vehicle. What should you do? Give ONE answer
A Continue with the task
B Inform your supervisor of the injury
C Nothing - unloading puts strain on your back, not your neck
D Wear a neck brace and start work
Correct Answer: B Inform your supervisor of the injury
Explanation: Always let your supervisor or manager know about any past or new injuries that may affect your ability to work without further injury.
42. What does wearing an abdominal brace mean for your risk of injury? Give ONE answer
A You drastically reduce your risk of injury
B You eliminate your risk of injury
C You increase your risk of injury
D Your risk of injury can still be the same
Correct Answer: D Your risk of injury can still be the same
Explanation: Wearing an abdominal brace does not necessarily reduce your risk of injury.
43. Before using a wheelbarrow to help you lift a load, what TWO things must you check? Give ONE answer
A That a wheelbarrow is the correct manual handling aid to use
B That it is colour-coded for manual handling
C That it is not new, so it will not matter if it becomes damaged
D That you are trained in how to correctly use one
Correct Answer: A That a wheelbarrow is the correct manual handling aid to use, D That you are trained in how to correctly use one
Explanation: You must check that any manual handling aid is correctly suited to a task, and that you are trained to use it.
44. What does this sign indicate? Give ONE answer
A Environmentally hazardous substance
B Hazardous chemical spill in area
C Poisonous wildlife in area
D Protected wildlife in area
Correct Answer: A Environmentally hazardous substance
Explanation: This sign is used to label environmentally hazardous chemicals.
45. What service can you access where you see this sign? Give ONE answer
A Catering
B Emergency services
C First aid
D General site information
Correct Answer: C First aid
Explanation: This sign indicates a first aid point.
46. What does this sign mean? Give ONE answer
A Hazardous fumes may be present
B Naked flames are prohibited
C Smoking is permitted
D Smoking is prohibited
Correct Answer: D Smoking is prohibited
Explanation: This is a no smoking sign.
47. Which sign indicates something you should use FIRST if you discover a fire? Give ONE answer
A
B
C
D
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Fire hoses and equipment are primarily for firefighters. Your first action should be to raise the alarm.
48. Who directs a crane when it is lifting a load? Give ONE answer
A A certified contractor
B A signaller
C A vehicle marshaller
D An operator
Correct Answer: B A signaller
Explanation: Signallers directs a crane's movement. Vehicle marshallers direct moving vehicles.
49. When can you enter zone 2 around plant machinery? Give ONE answer
A Once you have put on the correct PPE
B Once you have received confirmation from the operator
C Once you have signalled to the operator
D You must never enter zone 2
Correct Answer: D You must never enter zone 2
Explanation: Zone 2 is closest to the plant. You must never enter this zone.
50. What is the hand signal for DANGER? Give ONE answer
A Two fists raised above your head
B Two hands raised to your mouth
C Two open-palm hands raised directly up
D Two open-palm hands waved above your head
Correct Answer: C Two open-palm hands raised directly up
Explanation: Signal DANGER with two open-palm hands raised directly up.