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Operatives and Specialists Test 4 (2023)

Construction Test > Operatives and Specialists Test 4 (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. Prosecution by a Health and Safety Executive inspector may take place in which court? Check ALL that apply
A The Crown Court
B The HSE Court
C The Magistrate's Court
D The court of appeals
Correct Answer: A The Crown Court, C The Magistrate's Court
Explanation: A Health and Safety Executive inspector has the power to prosecute in either court.
2. THREE types of incident are responsible for over 50% of fatal injuries to workers. Which THREE? Give THREE answers
A Being hit by a vehicle
B Being hit by moving or falling objects
C Exposure to hazardous substances
D Falls from height
Correct Answer: A Being hit by a vehicle, B Being hit by moving or falling objects, D Falls from height
Explanation: Accidents resulting from moving vehicles, falls from height, or falling objects are the three most common causes of fatal injury.
3. You have a legal obligation to report accidents. True or false? Give ONE answer
A FALSE - the responsibility lies with site managers
B TRUE
Correct Answer: B TRUE
Explanation: All parties are legally required to report accidents.
4. What TWO activities contribute towards good housekeeping? Give TWO answers
A Access to wellbeing resources
B Keeping work surfaces uncluttered
C Maintenance of good catering facilities
D Storing your tools tidily
Correct Answer: B Keeping work surfaces uncluttered, D Storing your tools tidily
Explanation: Good housekeeping refers to the tidiness of a workspace.
5. You have been in an accident. Which of the following is NOT a required detail for the accident book? Give ONE answer
A The location of the accident
B The nature of the accident
C The nature of the injury sustained
D Your National Insurance number
Correct Answer: D Your National Insurance number
Explanation: You do not need to provide your National Insurance number. The book's purpose is to avoid future accidents.
6. You have finished using your respiratory protective equipment (RPE). What kind of waste is it? Give ONE answer
A General waste
B Hazardous waste
C It is not waste - it should be reused
D Recyclable waste
Correct Answer: B Hazardous waste
Explanation: Used RPE is considered hazardous waste, and must be disposed of appropriately.
7. What is the difference between a fume and a vapour? Give ONE answer
A Fumes are produced at high temperatures; vapours are produced at low temperatures
B Fumes are toxic; vapours are non-toxic
C Fumes contain suspended liquid particles; vapours contain suspended solid particles
D Fumes contain suspended solid particles; vapours contain suspended liquid particles
Correct Answer: D Fumes contain suspended solid particles; vapours contain suspended liquid particles
Explanation: Fumes and vapours both contain suspended particles. With fumes, the particles are solid; with vapours, the particles are liquid.
8. When do legionella bacteria in water become particularly dangerous? Give ONE answer
A When the water is cold
B When the water is fast-moving
C When the water is rich in plant life
D When the water is warm or stagnant
Correct Answer: D When the water is warm or stagnant
Explanation: Legionella bacteria are particularly active and breed well in warm, still water.
9. Which TWO reasons describe why tools are safer when battery-powered? Give TWO answers
A Any electric shocks will not be as strong
B There are no hazardous cables
C They are easier to secure
D They are smaller
E They can be overridden
Correct Answer: A Any electric shocks will not be as strong, B There are no hazardous cables
Explanation: Battery powered tools will not administer as strong an electric shock as those connected to mains power. They also do not trail potentially hazardous cables.
10. You are routing some cables at floor level. What are TWO things you must ensure? Give TWO answers
A That the ground is not too dry
B That there are no puddles
C That they do not go through a busy area
D That you have told all workers in the vicinity
E That you install protective ramps over them
Correct Answer: B That there are no puddles, E That you install protective ramps over them
Explanation: If you need to route cables along the ground, make sure there are no puddles, and that protective ramps are used to prevent damage if they are run over.
11. What are two damaging types of noise? Give TWO answers
A Bass noise (e.g. from generators)
B Continuous noise (e.g. drilling)
C Electronic noise (e.g. from radio comms)
D Peak noise (e.g. from piling rigs)
Correct Answer: B Continuous noise (e.g. drilling), D Peak noise (e.g. from piling rigs)
Explanation: Continuous noise and peak noise are damaging types of on-site noise.
12. What are TWO requirements that must be met for earplugs to be effective? Give TWO answers
A They must be fitted properly
B They must be fitted with clean hands
C They must be made of durable neoprene
D They must be mounted on a cord
Correct Answer: A They must be fitted properly, B They must be fitted with clean hands
Explanation: Earplugs must be properly fitted, and with clean hands, to prevent hearing damage and infections.
13. What does HAVS stand for? Give ONE answer
A Hand-arm vascular shock
B Hand-arm vibration syndrome
C Head-arm vibration stress
D Holistic arterial-vascular stress
Correct Answer: B Hand-arm vibration syndrome
Explanation: HAVS is a result of vibrational exposure to the hands and arms.
14. What environmental risk is created by a badly bunded storage area? Give ONE answer
A Animals may get in and become contaminated
B It will not properly contain harmful substance leaks
C It will require excessive amounts of energy
D Items inside may fall loose and leak
Correct Answer: B It will not properly contain harmful substance leaks
Explanation: Poor bunding will not properly contain any leaked or spilled substances
15. How will you know how to correctly use a spill kit? Give ONE answer
A Only licensed contractors can use spill kits
B You will be informed either during site induction, or sometime afterwards
C You will not need to use it, unless you are the designated individual
D You will refer to the spill kit manual
Correct Answer: B You will be informed either during site induction, or sometime afterwards
Explanation: All employees must be trained in emergency measures regarding environmental issues. This will happen during or following your induction.
16. Which of the following statements is TRUE about drains on site? Give ONE answer
A All drains must be fitted with filtration devices
B Drains must be cleared of debris following each shift
C Drains must be monitored daily for harmful substances
D Not all liquids can go down all drains
Correct Answer: D Not all liquids can go down all drains
Explanation: Specific liquids may not be permitted down specific drains.
17. Which of the following are common causes of death or injury when working in excavations? Give ONE answer
A All of the above
B Excavation collapse
C Exposure to dangerous gases
D Hitting live services
Correct Answer: A All of the above
Explanation: These are all potentially fatal incidents.
18. Which is the safest way getting in and out of an excavation? Give ONE answer
A A leg up from a colleague
B A rope and pulley mechanism
C A stairway dug into the wall
D A tied ladder
Correct Answer: D A tied ladder
Explanation: A tied ladder is a secure way of accessing an excavation.
19. What is the BIGGEST risk when a service is struck during work? Give ONE answer
A It may cause fatal injury
B It may create costly delays
C It may cut vital services from the area
D It may result in major lawsuits
Correct Answer: A It may cause fatal injury
Explanation: Striking a service can result in fatal injury, or death.
20. Where MUST a risk assessment be conducted for the risk of falling from height? Give ONE answer
A Any work at height where fall protection measures cannot be put in place
B Any work taking place above a height of 2 metres
C Anywhere where work at height is taking place
D Where work poses a risk to the public
Correct Answer: C Anywhere where work at height is taking place
Explanation: A risk assessment must be conducted for all work taking place at height.
21. Where must you NOT use a mobile elevating work platform? Give ONE answer
A On asphalt surfaces
B On busy roads
C On ground that is soft or uneven
D On private property
Correct Answer: C On ground that is soft or uneven
Explanation: Ground must be stable and firm.
22. Who is responsible for training and informing workers at height so they can operate safely? Give ONE answer
A The HSE
B The employees must take responsibility for this themselves
C The employer
D The on-site administration
Correct Answer: C The employer
Explanation: Employers must ensure all workers receive adequate instruction and information.
23. You are doing construction work in a residential area. What is the MAIN measure you might use to protect the public from falling objects? Give ONE answer
A Close access to the pavement
B Close access to the road
C Distribute PPE
D Divert pedestrians onto the road
Correct Answer: A Close access to the pavement
Explanation: You may decide to shut off pavement access.
24. When tiling a roof, your helmet falls to the ground. What is the correct course of action? Give ONE answer
A Assess it for damage, and replace it if it is cracked
B Assess it for damage, and replace it if it is marked
C Replace the helmet
D Safely descend to retrieve the helmet and continue working
Correct Answer: C Replace the helmet
Explanation: Falls from height can weaken the strength of a helmet, even if it is not obviously marked or cracked. A helmet that has fallen from height should always be replaced.
25. What are TWO safety features that all footwear on site must have? Give TWO answers
A A minimum of 12 lace eyelets
B Flexibility so it is easy to repeatedly kneel
C High grade ankle support
D Protection against puncture injuries
E Protective toe-caps
Correct Answer: D Protection against puncture injuries, E Protective toe-caps
Explanation: Toe caps and puncture protection are minimum requirements for safety footwear.
26. Your colleague has fallen from a building, and is suspended from their safety harness. Rescue is slow to arrive. What is ONE major health risk they may face? Give ONE answer
A Pulmonary arrest
B Suspension syncope
C Vascular distress
D Vertigo
Correct Answer: B Suspension syncope
Explanation: Also known as "suspension trauma," suspension syncope is a major risk to those whose fall has been arrested.
27. All masks should have: Give ONE answer
A A CE mark, and/or a British Standard number
B A minimum of two adjustable straps
C A sticker identifying who is using it
D A suitable modification for hot weather
Correct Answer: A A CE mark, and/or a British Standard number
Explanation: All masks on site should have a CE mark, and/or a British Standard number, to verify their quality.
28. What is your responsibility as a worker when it comes to acquiring hot work permits? Give ONE answer
A Being sufficiently competent to sign off on them if required for work
B Ensuring all your team are aware of any permits being acquired
C Knowing how and when to acquire them
D Taking the relevant tests to ensure you are aware of risks
Correct Answer: C Knowing how and when to acquire them
Explanation: Employees should understand how and when to acquire hot work permits.
29. Using a foam (cream) extinguisher is an example of what? Give ONE answer
A Removing all fire-producing elements
B Removing fuel
C Removing heat
D Removing oxygen
Correct Answer: D Removing oxygen
Explanation: A foam extinguisher smothers the fire by removing oxygen.
30. You are about to begin drilling again after lunch, and see paint cans have been left open in your area. What risk should you be aware of? Give ONE answer
A If the paint pots are knocked over, they will then create a dangerous atmosphere. If your drill overheats, it may ignite the fumes.
B Paint may have gotten on your tool, and if so this creates an ignition hazard
C The paint fumes may have created a dangerous atmosphere during that time. If your drill overheats, it may ignite the fumes.
D The paint fumes may have created a dangerous atmosphere during that time. You should be wearing appropriate RPE
Correct Answer: C The paint fumes may have created a dangerous atmosphere during that time. If your drill overheats, it may ignite the fumes.
Explanation: Paint pots and solvents left open create a potentially flammable atmosphere. An overheating power tool would be enough to set this on fire.
31. What should you do upon hearing the fire alarm? Give ONE answer
A Immediately stop work and make your way to the fire assembly point
B Reach a safe point to stop work and make your way to the fire assembly point
C Wait for confirmation that evacuation is necessary
D Wait for confirmation that the alarm is not a test or a drill
Correct Answer: A Immediately stop work and make your way to the fire assembly point
Explanation: When the alarm sounds you should stop work immediately and head to the fire assembly point.
32. A liquid is highly flammable if: Give ONE answer
A It can be ignited at temperatures lower than 32 degrees Celsius
B It can be ignited at temperatures lower than 55 degrees Celsius
C It can be ignited without being exposed to sparks or naked flames
D It cannot be extinguished with water once ignited
Correct Answer: A It can be ignited at temperatures lower than 32 degrees Celsius
Explanation: A highly flammable liquid is one that can ignite at temperatures lower than 32 degrees Celsius.
33. You have spilled some solvent. What should you do? Give ONE answer
A Alert your supervisor to the spill
B Clear it up immediately
C Clear the area until your supervisor can assess the risk
D Record it in the incident book
Correct Answer: B Clear it up immediately
Explanation: You must immediately clear up any spillages of flammable liquids.
34. What is the status of asbestos use in the UK? Give ONE answer
A All use of it is banned
B All use of it is banned worldwide
C Use of it is permitted under rare and highly specific circumstances
D Use of it is permitted where new materials must match existing materials that contain asbestos
Correct Answer: A All use of it is banned
Explanation: The UK has banned the use of asbestos under any circumstances.
35. A material has been sent to the laboratory for asbestos testing. What should be done in the meantime? Give ONE answer
A Cover all items containing the material with an air-tight wrap
B Isolate all items containing the material in a well ventilated space
C Until the report comes back, assume the material is safe
D Until the report comes back, you should treat the material as if it contains asbestos
Correct Answer: D Until the report comes back, you should treat the material as if it contains asbestos
Explanation: If the laboratory report is not yet completed, assume the material contains asbestos.
36. Which fire extinguisher should be used when conducting hot works? Give ONE answer
A Never use a fire extinguisher on hot works
B One designated for your team and stored at a safe distance from the work area
C One specifically designated to your work area and task
D The nearest one available in case of emergency
Correct Answer: C One specifically designated to your work area and task
Explanation: You must be issued with an extinguisher specific to your task and area.
37. What sign indicates a first aid post? Give ONE answer
A Green cross on white background
B Red cross on white background
C White cross on green background
D White cross on red background
Correct Answer: C White cross on green background
Explanation: The first aid post is signalled by a white cross on a green background
38. A member of your team has a serious accident. Give TWO immediate actions you must take. Give TWO answers
A Call for the attention of others, who can go for help
B Check whether it is safe to approach your injured colleague
C If possible, try to record the incident - either through notes, or on your phone
D Provide first aid
E Put them in the recovery position
Correct Answer: A Call for the attention of others, who can go for help, B Check whether it is safe to approach your injured colleague
Explanation: You must not put yourself or others in further danger - check it is safe to approach, and attract the attention of others who can call for qualified assistance.
39. What will indicate that you are suffering from work-related ill health? Give ONE answer
A It will be reflected in your health surveillance
B There may be no immediate indicators
C You will be picking up small injuries
D You will become fatigued
Correct Answer: B There may be no immediate indicators
Explanation: It may not be immediately obvious that you are developing work-related health conditions.
40. Which of the following helps protect you from picking up leptospirosis, tetanus, and hepatitis? Give ONE answer
A Antibiotics
B Gloves
C Respiratory protective equipment
D Waterproof plasters
Correct Answer: B Gloves
Explanation: Protective gloves will provide protection against all these diseases, because they cover open cuts and offer puncture protection.
41. Fatigue is most likely to result from what kind of work? Give ONE answer
A Dangerous
B High pressure
C Monotonous
D Stimulating
Correct Answer: C Monotonous
Explanation: Monotonous work may lead to fatigue.
42. What is the biggest risk if you are caught with psychoactive substances? Give ONE answer
A You may be asked to attend a clinic
B You may be fined
C You may face up to 7 years in prison
D You may lose your job
Correct Answer: C You may face up to 7 years in prison
Explanation: Possession of psychoactive substances is an offence; the most severe penalty is 7 years in prison.
43. What kinds of sign indicate something MANDATORY? Give ONE answer
A Blue drawing on a white circle
B White drawing on a blue circle
C White drawing on a red circle
D White sign with a red border
Correct Answer: B White drawing on a blue circle
Explanation: Mandatory signs are blue circles with a white drawing or figure.
44. Which sign might you find when there are electricity cables overhead? Give ONE answer
A
B
C
D
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: You may find a high voltage sign where electricity cables run overhead.
45. Not everyone on site is familiar with what standard safety signs mean. What might your employer do? Give ONE answer
A Create a new, simpler series of safety signs that everybody can learn together
B Do not use the signs that are less widely understood
C Provide information about standard signage and ensure everybody learns it
D Put plenty of signs up on site so workers can pick up the meanings in practice
Correct Answer: C Provide information about standard signage and ensure everybody learns it
Explanation: Standard signs must always be used where they are required. It is your responsibility to understand them, but your employer should offer support where necessary.
46. Which sign will you see if you are not allowed to touch something? Give ONE answer
A
B
C
D
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Prohibition signs are circular, with a single red diagonal line through the image.
47. What will you find where you see this sign? Give ONE answer
A A fire exit
B A ladder for firefighting use ONLY
C An escape ladder that is a LAST resort in case of emergency
D An evacuation route
Correct Answer: B A ladder for firefighting use ONLY
Explanation: This sign indicates the location of a fire ladder. These are for use in firefighting only.
48. Why are some mobile plants fitted with CCTV? Give ONE answer
A Because the size of the plant restricts the operator's field of vision
B So operators will always see pedestrians
C So the operator's health and conduct can be monitored
D So the plant efficiency can be monitored
Correct Answer: A Because the size of the plant restricts the operator's field of vision
Explanation: CCTV helps expand an operator's field of vision when using large machinery. It does not guarantee they will notice pedestrians.
49. There are usually two levels of safety zone around plant machinery. When can you enter zone 1? 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 1
Correct Answer: B Once you have received confirmation from the operator
Explanation: Only enter zone 1 if you have received confirmation from the operator that it is safe to do so.
50. How should the risk of a vehicle overturning be mitigated when that risk is high? Give ONE answer
A The vehicle should be fitted with roll-over protective structures
B The vehicle should be fitted with roll-proof tires
C The vehicle should be lashed to a secure structure on either side
D The vehicle should be loaded with additional ballast
Correct Answer: A The vehicle should be fitted with roll-over protective structures
Explanation: Roll-over protective structures (ROPS) should be fitted if the risk of overturning is high.