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 42 out of 50 questions correctly to pass. Answers may be reviewed after each question or at the end of the test. Good luck!
List of questions in above test (quick view). Click question box to reveal correct answer.
1. You decide to not follow an approved code of practice (ACoP) for a job, as it would not be safe under the job's specific circumstances. What must you be aware of?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: You are not legally obliged to follow ACoPs, but if your company is prosecuted then a failure to comply with an ACoP could be cited as a failure to comply with the law, and used as evidence.
Explanation: You are not legally obliged to follow ACoPs, but if your company is prosecuted then a failure to comply with an ACoP could be cited as a failure to comply with the law, and used as evidence.
2. The phrase "so far as is practicable" is used to qualify a given duty. What does this mean?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: "So far as is practicable" qualifies a duty which must be complied with if the technology and knowledge exists to comply with it. There is NO scope for considerations of time or cost - these are permissible is a duty must be complied with "so far as is reasonably practicable".
Explanation: "So far as is practicable" qualifies a duty which must be complied with if the technology and knowledge exists to comply with it. There is NO scope for considerations of time or cost - these are permissible is a duty must be complied with "so far as is reasonably practicable".
3. Which of the following is TRUE regarding prosecutions for health and safety law?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The burden of proof is reversed when it comes to health and safety law. Defendants must prove to the court that further risk mitigation than that which was provided was NOT practicable, or reasonably practicable.
Explanation: The burden of proof is reversed when it comes to health and safety law. Defendants must prove to the court that further risk mitigation than that which was provided was NOT practicable, or reasonably practicable.
4. Who must prepare the health and safety file, and what information must it include?
Check ALL that apply
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The health and safety file must contain any information that will be relevant to health and safety provisions made during future works. It is the responsibility of the principal designer.
Explanation: The health and safety file must contain any information that will be relevant to health and safety provisions made during future works. It is the responsibility of the principal designer.
5. Which TWO of the following describe pre-construction information?
Give TWO answers
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: C , D
Explanation: Pre-construction information is information that is easy to get hold of prior to construction, and will include project information the client is already in possession of.
Explanation: Pre-construction information is information that is easy to get hold of prior to construction, and will include project information the client is already in possession of.
6. What, in order, are the four key stages in the HSE's model for health and safety management?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: The four key stages, in order, are: plan, do, check, act.
Explanation: The four key stages, in order, are: plan, do, check, act.
7. You need to be aware that the MHSWR makes special regulatory provision for the protection of which THREE groups?
Give THREE answers
AB
C
D
E
F
Correct Answer: A , C , F
Explanation: Young persons, new or expecting mothers, and women of childbearing age all have specific provisions made for their protection. But risk assessments must also consider other vulnerabilities of the people involved.
Explanation: Young persons, new or expecting mothers, and women of childbearing age all have specific provisions made for their protection. But risk assessments must also consider other vulnerabilities of the people involved.
8. What is a residual risk?
Give ONE answer
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D
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: When control measures are put in place to manage a risk, a small risk level may still remain. This is known as "residual risk".
Explanation: When control measures are put in place to manage a risk, a small risk level may still remain. This is known as "residual risk".
9. An employer's risk assessment was carried out a week prior to the work beginning. What does this mean?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Employer risk assessments are not usually prepared at the time and location of work beginning. A point of work risk assessment is a simple and safe additional check you can do to ensure the risk assessment is still relevant.
Explanation: Employer risk assessments are not usually prepared at the time and location of work beginning. A point of work risk assessment is a simple and safe additional check you can do to ensure the risk assessment is still relevant.
10. You are using the quantitative risk assessment method to assess the use of a ladder. The likelihood of falling is medium, and the severity of the risk is low. What would be the combined risk rating?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: When carrying out a quantitative risk assessment, the 'combined risk rating' is the highest rating of the two individual likelihood and severity ratings. In this case, the likelihood (of falling from the ladder) is medium, so higher than the severity. The combined risk rating is therefore medium.
Explanation: When carrying out a quantitative risk assessment, the 'combined risk rating' is the highest rating of the two individual likelihood and severity ratings. In this case, the likelihood (of falling from the ladder) is medium, so higher than the severity. The combined risk rating is therefore medium.
11. Which additional strand of competence was introduced by a report in 2011 for the competency card scheme?
Give ONE answer
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D
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Behavioural competence was supported by a 2011 report as something which should be introduced into competency card schemes. It covers risk and situational awareness, along with self-awareness.
Explanation: Behavioural competence was supported by a 2011 report as something which should be introduced into competency card schemes. It covers risk and situational awareness, along with self-awareness.
12. What must happen to the records detailing information provided in site induction and people who have received induction?
Give ONE answer
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D
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: These records are important to help prove that induction sessions took place in accordance with regulations.
Explanation: These records are important to help prove that induction sessions took place in accordance with regulations.
13. Supervisors are advised to encourage workers to use SLAM. What does this stand for?
Give ONE answer
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C
D
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: SLAM stands for stop, look, assess, manage - it is a technique workers can use to identify and manage health and safety risks they may encounter whilst working.
Explanation: SLAM stands for stop, look, assess, manage - it is a technique workers can use to identify and manage health and safety risks they may encounter whilst working.
14. Which of the following is NOT an example of improving behavioural safety in the workplace?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Managing behavioural safety involves ensuring employees engage in a positive and productive way with all aspects of work. A fixed list of people you consult on issues may prove ineffective, as it may lead you to overlook parties with valuable contributions.
Explanation: Managing behavioural safety involves ensuring employees engage in a positive and productive way with all aspects of work. A fixed list of people you consult on issues may prove ineffective, as it may lead you to overlook parties with valuable contributions.
15. Which of the following describes good supervision?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: It is crucial that supervisors lead by example. Failing to intervene or challenge when dangerous behaviours or practices come up may be interpreted as condoning or permitting them.
Explanation: It is crucial that supervisors lead by example. Failing to intervene or challenge when dangerous behaviours or practices come up may be interpreted as condoning or permitting them.
16. Which of the following would NOT be a reportable incident under RIDDOR?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: There are many defined reportable incidents under RIDDOR that you must be familiar with. Incapacity as a result of injury becomes reportable once a worker is absent for more than seven consecutive days.
Explanation: There are many defined reportable incidents under RIDDOR that you must be familiar with. Incapacity as a result of injury becomes reportable once a worker is absent for more than seven consecutive days.
17. Where an employee is undertaking health surveillance that requires testing by a doctor, how must this doctor be appointed?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Doctors carrying out health surveillance testing must be appointed by the HSE.
Explanation: Doctors carrying out health surveillance testing must be appointed by the HSE.
18. Which of the following persons have the HIGHEST grade of first aid training?
Give ONE answer
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C
D
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: The First Aid at Work (FAW) is the highest level of qualification among these. Appointed Persons are not permitted to give first aid, but will take charge in an emergency and maintain first aid equipment.
Explanation: The First Aid at Work (FAW) is the highest level of qualification among these. Appointed Persons are not permitted to give first aid, but will take charge in an emergency and maintain first aid equipment.
19. What kind of RPE would be appropriate for oxygen-depleted atmospheres?
Give ONE answer
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D
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Respirators must not be used as RPE if there is a risk of the atmosphere being, or becoming, oxygen deficient.
Explanation: Respirators must not be used as RPE if there is a risk of the atmosphere being, or becoming, oxygen deficient.
20. What is the most common way that hazardous substances enter the body?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Many hazardous substances are suspended as particles in the air, and most commonly enter the body through inhalation.
Explanation: Many hazardous substances are suspended as particles in the air, and most commonly enter the body through inhalation.
21. Under what circumstances is it safe to use a dust-filtering face mask as RPE?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: Dust-filtering face masks will not provide protection against fumes, gases, and vapours, and should not be used as RPE where these are present.
Explanation: Dust-filtering face masks will not provide protection against fumes, gases, and vapours, and should not be used as RPE where these are present.
22. True or false: union-appointed safety representatives must have access to monitoring and health surveillance records?
Give ONE answer
AB
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Records pertaining to monitoring arrangements and health surveillance must be made available to union-appointed health and safety representatives.
Explanation: Records pertaining to monitoring arrangements and health surveillance must be made available to union-appointed health and safety representatives.
23. What are the three types of high-level noise common on construction sites which pose a health hazard?
Give THREE answers
AB
C
D
E
F
Correct Answer: B , D , E
Explanation: The three types of noise are intermittent (e.g., stop-start noise from tools); continuous (e.g., from a generator); and impact (e.g., from pecker breakers).
Explanation: The three types of noise are intermittent (e.g., stop-start noise from tools); continuous (e.g., from a generator); and impact (e.g., from pecker breakers).
24. Which TWO of the following describe the exposure LIMIT value for daily dose and peak levels?
Give TWO answers
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: A , C
Explanation: The exposure limit value is 87 dB(A) for daily dose, and 140 dB(C) for peak level.
Explanation: The exposure limit value is 87 dB(A) for daily dose, and 140 dB(C) for peak level.
25. Where the person carrying out the task is a woman, by how much is it recommended that the load should be lightened?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The HSE recommends that loads should be reduced by about 30% in weight if being handled by women.
Explanation: The HSE recommends that loads should be reduced by about 30% in weight if being handled by women.
26. At what height can most weight be safely carried?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: When lifting and lowering, most weight can be carried at knuckle height - and least at shoulder height and mid-lower leg height.
Explanation: When lifting and lowering, most weight can be carried at knuckle height - and least at shoulder height and mid-lower leg height.
27. Which of the following is TRUE regarding trespassers on a construction site?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: Construction site trespass is not generally speaking a criminal offence. There is a legal duty to protect both trespassers and non-employees on site from risk.
Explanation: Construction site trespass is not generally speaking a criminal offence. There is a legal duty to protect both trespassers and non-employees on site from risk.
28. Which of the following is responsible for most fire-related fatalities?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: Smoke causes asphyxiation, and is responsible for most fire fatalities.
Explanation: Smoke causes asphyxiation, and is responsible for most fire fatalities.
29. Under what circumstances might you use propane cylinders with equipment designed for butane gas?
Give ONE answer
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C
D
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Butane and propane cylinders must never be used on equipment they are not designed for - the two gases operate at different temperatures.
Explanation: Butane and propane cylinders must never be used on equipment they are not designed for - the two gases operate at different temperatures.
30. If an LPG leak cannot be turned off or isolated, what must you do?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: LPG leaks can be highly dangerous. If they cannot be turned off or isolated, take the cylinder to an empty and open space and call the fire service.
Explanation: LPG leaks can be highly dangerous. If they cannot be turned off or isolated, take the cylinder to an empty and open space and call the fire service.
31. What voltage supply should mains-powered electrical hand tools on site run from?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Tools on site should run from 110 volt power supplies if they are not battery-powered.
Explanation: Tools on site should run from 110 volt power supplies if they are not battery-powered.
32. Which TWO of the following statements are TRUE regarding pedestrian and vehicle access to the site?
Give TWO answers
AB
C
D
E
Correct Answer: A , C
Explanation: Separate site entrances will ideally be provided for vehicle and pedestrian access for safety reasons, and all site entrances must be tightly controlled.
Explanation: Separate site entrances will ideally be provided for vehicle and pedestrian access for safety reasons, and all site entrances must be tightly controlled.
33. What is one MAJOR risk created by a poorly fitted disc on an abrasive wheel?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Discs that are poorly fitted, inappropriate for the machine, or running too fast are liable to disintegrate.
Explanation: Discs that are poorly fitted, inappropriate for the machine, or running too fast are liable to disintegrate.
34. What THREE of the following conditions must be met for an abrasive wheel to be safely mounted?
Give THREE answers
AB
C
D
E
F
Correct Answer: A , C , F
Explanation: Abrasive wheels can be highly dangerous if improperly mounted. There must be a gap no larger than 3 mm between the wheel and the work rest, there must be a spark guard, and the operator must be appointed by the employer in writing to mount the abrasive wheel.
Explanation: Abrasive wheels can be highly dangerous if improperly mounted. There must be a gap no larger than 3 mm between the wheel and the work rest, there must be a spark guard, and the operator must be appointed by the employer in writing to mount the abrasive wheel.
35. What might you do if an abrasive wheel is being used in the vicinity of other workers?
Give ONE answer
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C
D
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: A screen is a good way of managing the risk created by use of an abrasive wheel to those in the vicinity. Another option is to put in place an exclusion zone.
Explanation: A screen is a good way of managing the risk created by use of an abrasive wheel to those in the vicinity. Another option is to put in place an exclusion zone.
36. Which TWO of the following describe the recommended protocol for pedestrians around plant machinery?
Give TWO answers
AB
C
D
E
Correct Answer: B , E
Explanation: Zones 1 and 2 are the areas near to, and next to, plant machinery respectively. Pedestrians may only enter zone 1 with positive confirmation from the operator - and must never enter zone 2.
Explanation: Zones 1 and 2 are the areas near to, and next to, plant machinery respectively. Pedestrians may only enter zone 1 with positive confirmation from the operator - and must never enter zone 2.
37. When might you be legally permitted to use a generic risk assessment?
Give ONE answer
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C
D
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Generic risk assessments may be used where the lifting operation is repeated under identical circumstances, with no change in risk level or hazards.
Explanation: Generic risk assessments may be used where the lifting operation is repeated under identical circumstances, with no change in risk level or hazards.
38. Which of the following does NOT fall into the category of "lifting equipment"?
Give ONE answer
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C
D
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: Wheelbarrows are considered manual handling aids.
Explanation: Wheelbarrows are considered manual handling aids.
39. What TWO additional provisions must be fitted on excavators with a SWL of more than one tonne?
Give TWO answers
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C
D
E
Correct Answer: A , E
Explanation: Excavators working with this SWL must be fitted with a warning device and a boom-lowering control device.
Explanation: Excavators working with this SWL must be fitted with a warning device and a boom-lowering control device.
40. What is the safest means of accessing and storing materials for work on a sloping roof?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Sloping and curved rooves create access and storage problems - a good way around this is to erect a scaffold platform at the height of the eaves so as to have a safe, flat surface.
Explanation: Sloping and curved rooves create access and storage problems - a good way around this is to erect a scaffold platform at the height of the eaves so as to have a safe, flat surface.
41. Which of the following gas leaks would be LEAST hazardous in an excavation?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Helium is the only gas among these that is lighter than air. Gases that are heavier than air will pool in the bottom of an excavation, and can prove injurious or deadly.
Explanation: Helium is the only gas among these that is lighter than air. Gases that are heavier than air will pool in the bottom of an excavation, and can prove injurious or deadly.
42. When detecting underground services, why is it important not to rely on a cable avoidance tool?
Give ONE answer
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C
D
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Tools for cable location will not always detect the necessary services.
Explanation: Tools for cable location will not always detect the necessary services.
43. Which THREE of the following describe the correct procedure for excavating around underground services?
Give THREE answers
AB
C
D
E
F
Correct Answer: A , C , E
Explanation: Within 500mm of services, digging must be done with insulated, hand-held tools that do not have sharp points or edges. Do not expose the service from directly above.
Explanation: Within 500mm of services, digging must be done with insulated, hand-held tools that do not have sharp points or edges. Do not expose the service from directly above.
44. What must an operator do if their machine makes contact with damaged electricity cables and it is not safe for them to jump clear?
Give ONE answer
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C
D
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: If it is not possible to jump clear, the operator must ensure they do not touch metallic parts of the vehicle - and shout for help.
Explanation: If it is not possible to jump clear, the operator must ensure they do not touch metallic parts of the vehicle - and shout for help.
45. At what level of oxygen in the atmosphere will humans begin to suffer from ill health effects?
Give ONE answer
AB
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D
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Normal air is about 21% oxygen. Respiratory problems will begin if this falls to or below 19%
Explanation: Normal air is about 21% oxygen. Respiratory problems will begin if this falls to or below 19%
46. If smoke-logging is an anticipated problem for work in confined space, what must be done?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: Under some circumstances, the emergency services must be notified before a confined space can be entered. This is true if smoke-logging might become a problem.
Explanation: Under some circumstances, the emergency services must be notified before a confined space can be entered. This is true if smoke-logging might become a problem.
47. Flammable liquid containers being used for work (but not currently in use) must be kept in a specialised bin. What should the volume of this bin be?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The storage bin must have a volume of at least 110% of the largest vessel that is stored inside of it. This accounts for leaks and any additional volume created by foam.
Explanation: The storage bin must have a volume of at least 110% of the largest vessel that is stored inside of it. This accounts for leaks and any additional volume created by foam.
48. Which THREE of the following may indicate an LPG leak?
Give THREE answers
AB
C
D
E
F
Correct Answer: A , C , E
Explanation: LPG leaks are highly dangerous, and might be indicated by a leaking sound, a smell, or frosting on the cylinder.
Explanation: LPG leaks are highly dangerous, and might be indicated by a leaking sound, a smell, or frosting on the cylinder.
49. You are set to begin work near a scheduled monument. What must you first do?
Give ONE answer
AB
C
D
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Even if work is not being done on a scheduled monument itself, work done nearby may require you to obtain scheduled monument consent.
Explanation: Even if work is not being done on a scheduled monument itself, work done nearby may require you to obtain scheduled monument consent.
50. How must silty water be treated?
Give ONE answer
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D
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Silty water must be left to settle in a settlement tank.
Explanation: Silty water must be left to settle in a settlement tank.