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Operatives and Specialists Test 3 (2023)

Construction Test > Operatives and Specialists Test 3 (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 LEGALLY 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: The responsibility of everyone to uphold health and safety is not just moral - it is also legal.
2. Which of the following is an expression of RISK? Give ONE answer
A "I don't like how this is put together"
B "Is this dangerous?"
C "The ladder is wobbly"
D "You'll probably fall"
Correct Answer: D "You'll probably fall"
Explanation: RISK concerns how likely a hazard is to cause harm, and how serious that harm could be.
3. Which of the following is NOT the point of a method statement for a job? Give ONE answer
A To identify the controls that will have to be followed
B To identify the training levels required
C To identify which materials will be used
D To identify who is paying
Correct Answer: D To identify who is paying
Explanation: A method statement is used to explain in detail how a job will be safely executed.
4. Which of the following describes the role of COSHH Assessments? Give ONE answer
A To assess the role played by hazardous substance exposure in a workplace accident
B To assist manufacturers in improving the quality of hazardous materials
C To eliminate the risks posed by hazardous substances in the workplace
D To identify and mitigate the risks created by hazardous substances in the workplace
Correct Answer: D To identify and mitigate the risks created by hazardous substances in the workplace
Explanation: COSHH assessments are used to assess and mitigate (in advance) the risk of working with hazardous substances.
5. You notice some cables on site which you think may pose a hazard, what should you do? Give ONE answer
A Cover them with a cable guard
B Nothing - this is the responsibility of site management
C Report it to your manager or supervisor
D Unplug them to remove the hazard
Correct Answer: C Report it to your manager or supervisor
Explanation: If you notice hazards, you are responsible for reporting them.
6. Which of the following is a TRUE statistic relating to deaths from exposure to silica dust? Give ONE answer
A Around 35 people die annually from it
B Around 450 people die annually from it
C Nobody has died from it in the past decade
D Only a few people die annually, but hundreds contract chronic diseases
Correct Answer: B Around 450 people die annually from it
Explanation: Hundreds of people die annually from exposure to silica dust. It is a serious hazard.
7. What TWO factors may increase the risks associated with hazardous airborne substances? Give TWO answers
A High concentration of oxygen
B High concentrations of the substance
C Poorly lit spaces
D Poorly ventilated workspaces
E Respiratory protective equipment
Correct Answer: B High concentrations of the substance, D Poorly ventilated workspaces
Explanation: Airborne hazardous substances become more dangerous in higher concentrations and badly ventilated workspaces.
8. You are cutting medium density fibreboard (MDF) panels. What particular respiratory hazard should you watch out for? Give ONE answer
A It produces especially coarse dust, which may build up in your airways
B It produces especially fine dust, which can travel deep into your body
C It produces especially hot dust, which can burn your airways
D It produces especially toxic dust
Correct Answer: B It produces especially fine dust, which can travel deep into your body
Explanation: MDF creates especially fine dust, which can be inhaled far into your body.
9. Which statement is TRUE regarding legionella bacteria? Give ONE answer
A They are not a threat during colder months
B They are only found in natural environments
C They can be found in hot water storage tanks
D They can be removed by sluicing a surface in warm water
Correct Answer: C They can be found in hot water storage tanks
Explanation: Legionella bacteria can be present in various parts of buildings. They are not only found in natural environments.
10. Which approach is the best one to use when cutting wood? Give ONE answer
A Dust capture
B Wet cutting
Correct Answer: A Dust capture
Explanation: Wood is one of a few materials for which wet cutting is not a suitable choice.
11. Which THREE colours are used to indicate the voltage of a tool? Give ONE answer
A Red, blue, brown
B Yellow, blue, red
C Yellow, green, red
D Yellow, red, white
Correct Answer: B Yellow, blue, red
Explanation: Yellow, blue, and red are used to colour-code tools according to the level of voltage they use.
12. When should you route cables across the ground? Give ONE answer
A If the work is taking place at ground level
B If there is work being done overhead
C Only if you cannot route them overhead
D You should never route cables along the ground
Correct Answer: C Only if you cannot route them overhead
Explanation: Routing cables at floor level should only be done if you cannot route them overhead.
13. A fuse blows whilst you are using your tool. What should you do? Give ONE answer
A Turn off your tool and examine it for electrical faults
B Turn off your tool and find a replacement
C Turn off your tool and fix the fuse before continuing
D Turn off your tool and inform your manager or supervisor
Correct Answer: D Turn off your tool and inform your manager or supervisor
Explanation: A blown fuse indicates a problem with the equipment. Turn it off and inform your manager. Do not attempt repairs unless you are sufficiently trained, authorised, and competent.
14. When using a tool with guards, what TWO things must you check before beginning work? Give TWO answers
A That the guards are working correctly
B That they are adjusted properly
C That they are the correct colour
D Whether the guards are required for this task
Correct Answer: A That the guards are working correctly, B That they are adjusted properly
Explanation: Guards on tools must always be correctly functioning and adjusted.
15. How can you tell if you suffer from tinnitus? Give ONE answer
A You cannot hear high frequencies
B You develop a poor sense of balance
C You hear a persistent ringing
D You lose blood circulation in your extremities
Correct Answer: C You hear a persistent ringing
Explanation: Tinnitus is experienced as a constant ringing or buzzing in the ears.
16. What are two signs you may be developing hearing damage? Give TWO answers
A You are experiencing pain in your ear canal
B You are noticing regular bouts of dizziness
C You are playing music at higher volume on your headphones
D You are regularly having to ask people to speak up
Correct Answer: C You are playing music at higher volume on your headphones, D You are regularly having to ask people to speak up
Explanation: You may be developing hearing damage if you are struggling to hear sounds at normal levels.
17. Whilst demolishing an interior wall you come across some bats roosting. What should you do? Give ONE answer
A Gently place them in a well-ventilated container and take them to the site office
B Gently transport them to a safe area
C Stop work and consult your supervisor
D Work quietly around them where possible
Correct Answer: C Stop work and consult your supervisor
Explanation: If you come across bats roosting, or disturb wildlife of any kind, you must stop work and ask for advice on how to proceed.
18. What must you be aware of when working on a brownfield site? Give ONE answer
A That it can only be used for industrial purposes
B That it is a site of archaeological interest
C That it may contain hazardous substances
D That it may contain protected species of wildlife
Correct Answer: C That it may contain hazardous substances
Explanation: Brownfield sites are sites that have been previously used for industry, or previously built on. Hazardous substances may still be present.
19. Some fumes and poisonous gases can be heavier than air. Why is this a risk? Give ONE answer
A Because heavier gases are more flammable
B Because they act like a liquid, so can fill a low space and deprive workers of oxygen
C Because they have no smell, so their poisonous effects can go unnoticed
D It is not a risk
Correct Answer: B Because they act like a liquid, so can fill a low space and deprive workers of oxygen
Explanation: Gases heavier than air will "pour" into a space and displace oxygen.
20. What are a CAT and a genny? Give ONE answer
A These are items of PPE for people working near electricity
B These are safety barriers to keep people out of an exclusion zone
C These are tools to help you avoid striking underground cables
D These are two safety roles performed by construction workers
Correct Answer: C These are tools to help you avoid striking underground cables
Explanation: A cable avoidance tool (CAT) and a genny will help detect underground cables.
21. When it comes to construction site fatalities, what rough proportion are the result of falls from height? Give ONE answer
A A negligible proportion
B Half
C One quarter
D One tenth
Correct Answer: B Half
Explanation: About half of construction site fatalities are the result of falls from height.
22. What is ONE example of personal protection? Give ONE answer
A Airbags
B Harness and a lanyard for fall-arrest
C Safety netting
D Scaffolding
Correct Answer: B Harness and a lanyard for fall-arrest
Explanation: A harness with a fall-arrest lanyard is one example of personal protection
23. You need to remove a protective cover to begin work. What TWO measures must be in place? Give TWO answers
A There must be nobody else around
B You must be authorised to remove the cover
C You must be sure there is no risk of falling
D You must have an emergency radio
E You must have fall protection when the cover is removed
Correct Answer: B You must be authorised to remove the cover, E You must have fall protection when the cover is removed
Explanation: You must be authorised to remove any covers, and protected from falls whilst the cover is removed.
24. When is it permissible to paint a ladder? Give ONE answer
A If it has suffered cosmetic damage
B If it needs to be more visible
C If it needs waterproofing
D Never
Correct Answer: D Never
Explanation: Painting ladders can obscure defects.
25. How can you find out a scaffold platform's safe load rating? Give ONE answer
A You can check the signage or handover certificate
B You can check with the contractor
C You can inspect the scaffolding for damage
D You can refer to the safe system of work
Correct Answer: A You can check the signage or handover certificate
Explanation: You can find this information on the signage and the handover certificate.
26. A mobile access tower needs to be moved. Which of the following TWO statements is true? Give TWO answers
A Any tools and equipment must be securely tied down
B Any workers must be securely harnessed to the platform
C It should only be moved at the end of a shift
D There must be no people on it
E There must be no tools on it
Correct Answer: D There must be no people on it, E There must be no tools on it
Explanation: There should be no tools or workers on a platform that is being moved.
27. Can cranes be used near power lines? Give ONE answer
A No
B No, unless the power lines are dead
C Yes, and without risk, because they are not conductors
D Yes, but only with extreme caution
Correct Answer: D Yes, but only with extreme caution
Explanation: Cranes can be used near power lines, but only if necessary - and with extreme caution.
28. Which of the following describes a power line that is LEAST hazardous? Give ONE answer
A Isolated
B Isolated and dead
C Low voltage
D Protected by barriers
Correct Answer: B Isolated and dead
Explanation: Power lines are safest when they are both isolated and dead.
29. Which of the following will conduct electricity if it touches or comes close to a power line? Check ALL that apply
A Crane
B Long metal ladder
C Piece of scaffolding
D Power lines do not conduct electricity to the ground, as they are safely insulated
Correct Answer: A Crane, B Long metal ladder, C Piece of scaffolding
Explanation: These will all conduct electricity, and must be managed with extreme caution around power lines.
30. Your employer must always provide PPE where it is required. True or false? Give ONE answer
A False - Your employer may ask you to provide it yourself if you are a temporary hire
B True - your employer must always provide it if required
Correct Answer: B True - your employer must always provide it if required
Explanation: Your employer is legally obliged to provide PPE where necessary.
31. Many safety signs are likely to indicate areas where you must wear PPE. Which of the following signs is LEAST likely to indicate a situation requiring PPE? Give ONE answer
A
B
C
D
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: This sign indicates that water from this tap is not for drinking - there are no items of PPE usually associated with this.
32. What is ONE thing you can do to help ensure your respiratory protective equipment (RPE) works effectively? Give ONE answer
A Buff the edges of the mask that will be in contact with your face
B Exfoliate your face before shift
C Moisturise the area around your mouth and nose
D Shave any facial hair clean before the start of shift
Correct Answer: D Shave any facial hair clean before the start of shift
Explanation: The effectiveness of your RPE may be affected by facial hair.
33. There is a leaking LPG cannister on site. Which of the following is TRUE? Give ONE answer
A A severe fire is imminent, and the site should be immediately evacuated
B Even at some distance from the cannister, the leak can be ignited and travel back
C The leak will create a flammable atmosphere in the area approximately 1m around it
D This is common, and not a cause for concern if correct precautions are taken
Correct Answer: B Even at some distance from the cannister, the leak can be ignited and travel back
Explanation: LPG leaks can be ignited some distance from the cannister.
34. What is required for a job involving work with asbestos? Give TWO answers
A Licensing
B Specialist competency certification
C Training
D Written risk assessment
Correct Answer: C Training, D Written risk assessment
Explanation: Training and a risk assessment in writing are crucial components for a safe job.
35. What must employers provide in case of accidents on-site? Give ONE answer
A An on-site doctor
B First aid cover, including trained staff where appropriate
C First aid kits for all employees
D Health insurance
Correct Answer: B First aid cover, including trained staff where appropriate
Explanation: Your employer must ensure there are sufficiently trained first aiders, in sufficient numbers, on site.
36. Which document is a first aider required to have? Give ONE answer
A A clean advanced CRB check
B An up-to-date certificate for First Aid at Work
C Authorisation certificate from the HSE
D Health and Safety Authority certification
Correct Answer: B An up-to-date certificate for First Aid at Work
Explanation: They must have a current First Aid at Work certificate
37. Your hands are beginning to get red and itchy, but your colleagues on the same job are not reporting symptoms. What does this mean? Give ONE answer
A Nothing in particular - irritants may affect different people in different ways
B This is NOT dermatitis - your colleagues would be sharing your symptoms
C You should apply moisturiser
D Your colleagues are not wearing their PPE correctly
Correct Answer: A Nothing in particular - irritants may affect different people in different ways
Explanation: Irritants will affect different people in different ways. You may develop health conditions that colleagues on the same job do not.
38. Besides sun exposure, what is another cause of SKIN cancer in the construction industry? Give ONE answer
A Asbestos
B Mineral oils
C Solvents
D Wet cement
Correct Answer: B Mineral oils
Explanation: If you are in everyday contact with mineral oils, for example through oily gloves, you are at risk of this second type of skin cancer.
39. Which is the more common cause of skin cancer in the construction industry? Give ONE answer
A Dermatitis
B Electric shocks
C Exposure to mineral oils
D Sun exposure
Correct Answer: D Sun exposure
Explanation: Sun exposure is the more common cause of skin cancer.
40. Which part of your body may be affected by injuries sustained through manual handling? Give ONE answer
A Ankles
B Any part of your body
C Back
D Neck
Correct Answer: B Any part of your body
Explanation: Manual handling can affect any part of your body.
41. You need to pick one other person to help you lift a heavy material. Who would be a good choice? Give ONE answer
A Someone of a similar build and stature
B Someone of similar age
C Someone stronger than you
D Someone who is available to help
Correct Answer: A Someone of a similar build and stature
Explanation: Someone of a similar size and stature will help ensure the weight of the load is evenly distributed.
42. You are lifting bricks up to a platform, and are positioned such that you need to twist your body. What does this mean? Give ONE answer
A This will help you lift heavier loads than you can normally
B You must make sure your feet are stably planted
C You will need to lift lighter loads than you would normally
D You will need to wear an abdominal brace
Correct Answer: C You will need to lift lighter loads than you would normally
Explanation: A twisting movement puts more strain on your back. You must lift lighter loads when you are twisting.
43. When using a brick hoist, do manual handling rules still apply? Give ONE answer
A No - using brick hoists eliminates the need for manual handling
B Yes - brick hoists aid, but do not eliminate, the need for manual handling
Correct Answer: B Yes - brick hoists aid, but do not eliminate, the need for manual handling
Explanation: Brick hoists are a manual handling aid. Manual handling procedures must still be followed.
44. What is one thing you should NOT do with substances that are marked with this sign? Give ONE answer
A Come within 1 metre of them
B Disturb them
C Expose them to air
D Swallow or inhale them
Correct Answer: D Swallow or inhale them
Explanation: This sign indicates toxic substances. These should not, for example, be swallowed or inhaled.
45. What does this sign mean? Give ONE answer
A Changing area
B PPE collection point
C Protective clothing is mandatory
D Uniform is mandatory
Correct Answer: C Protective clothing is mandatory
Explanation: This sign indicates that protective clothing is mandatory.
46. Which ONE of the following best describes an operator? Give ONE answer
A The driver OR operator of a mobile plant
B The driver of a mobile plant
C The operator of a mobile plant
D The supervisor managing a project involving a mobile plant
Correct Answer: A The driver OR operator of a mobile plant
Explanation: Operator in this case includes both operators and drivers.
47. Which of the following is NOT an example of lifting EQUIPMENT? Give ONE answer
A Excavator used as a crane
B Goods hoist
C Lorry loader
D Sling
Correct Answer: D Sling
Explanation: Lifting equipment describes any equipment used for lifting or lowering loads or people.
48. When an examination report on lifting equipment is produced, where must it be stored? Give ONE answer
A At the HSE offices
B At the equipment supplier's office
C At the site administration office
D Wherever the equipment is located
Correct Answer: D Wherever the equipment is located
Explanation: Equipment examination reports must be stored with the equipment.
49. Your colleague informs you that your vehicle has a flat tyre. What does this mean? Give ONE answer
A It is not suitable for carrying loads
B It may be unsafe to drive
C You must not travel at high speeds
D You must pay for repairs
Correct Answer: B It may be unsafe to drive
Explanation: Flat tires can render a vehicle unsafe to drive.
50. Vehicle movement on site is best controlled by who? Give ONE answer
A The drivers of the vehicles
B The signallers
C The site manager
D Vehicle marshallers
Correct Answer: D Vehicle marshallers
Explanation: Vehicle marshallers should be directing vehicles on site.