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Specialist Activities – Heating and Plumbing Services

Construction Test > Specialist Activities – Heating and Plumbing Services

You need to answer at least 36 out of 43 questions correctly to pass the Heating and Plumbing Services Specialist Activities Test. 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. It is necessary for a fitting to be soldered onto a copper gas pipe. Which TWO of the following MUST take place? Give TWO answers
A The gas pipe must be isolated
B The gas pipe must be pressure tested first
C The pipe must be tested for asbestos
D The soldering must be done by an engineer who is Gas Safe registered
E The soldering must be done by someone who is trained and competent
Correct Answer: A The gas pipe must be isolated, D The soldering must be done by an engineer who is Gas Safe registered
Explanation: This job must be carried out by an engineer who is Gas Safe registered, and the pipe must be isolated.
2. What is temporary continuity bonding? Give ONE answer
A A chemical process that provides a stop-gap welding solution before repairs can be finalised
B A method of work that ensures work is continually carried out and no area of unfit pipework is left unattended
C A temporary replacement section of pipework that allows for continuous service whilst a section is removed for repair
D An adjustment that maintains a continuous earth connection across breaks in metallic pipes whilst they are disconnected for jointing
Correct Answer: D An adjustment that maintains a continuous earth connection across breaks in metallic pipes whilst they are disconnected for jointing
Explanation: Temporary continuity bonding provides a continuous earth for pipework whilst a job is being carried out on it.
3. When must temporary continuity bonding be put in place? Give ONE answer
A After a section of pipe is cut
B Before work starts
C When no better option can be found
D When work is to be left unattended
Correct Answer: B Before work starts
Explanation: Temporary continuity bonding must be put in place before work begins on a section of pipe.
4. You are working on a tight deadline, and need to carry out pipework repairs outdoors whilst it is raining. Which is the MOST appropriate kind of power drill to use? Give ONE answer
A 110 volt
B Battery powered
C Mains powered with earthing device
D You should NEVER use power tools in wet weather, and must wait for conditions to dry out
Correct Answer: B Battery powered
Explanation: In wet weather, you must ensure you use battery powered tools only.
5. Your colleague is carrying out welding in an area next to yours - what must happen to protect you from welding flash? Give ONE answer
A A screen must be erected
B Nothing in particular - welding flash will not affect you from a distance
C You must be issued with eye protection
D You must be warned before the torch is turned on
Correct Answer: A A screen must be erected
Explanation: Screens must be put up to protect others from welding flash when welding is taking place nearby.
6. You are tasked with carrying out repairs below ground, where the ceiling above is a suspended timber floor. What should you do? Give ONE answer
A Check whether the job can be completed from above
B Ensure you are wearing respiratory protective equipment
C Ensure you have the appropriate fire extinguisher to hand
D Refuse to work, as this is a highly dangerous situation
Correct Answer: A Check whether the job can be completed from above
Explanation: You should check whether it is possible to work from above in this situation
7. You need to replace the flue liner in a domestic chimney. How should you ascend to the roof? Give ONE answer
A Using a cherry picker
B Using a chimney-specific access scaffold
C Using a hoist
D Using a roof ladder
Correct Answer: B Using a chimney-specific access scaffold
Explanation: Chimneys should be accessed using specialised scaffolding.
8. You need to install a boiler flue, and an existing mobile access tower is positioned such that you can almost safely reach the place where you need to drill through the outside wall. What should you do? Give ONE answer
A Begin work using the existing mobile access tower
B Do not begin work until you are harnessed and securely attached to the access tower
C Do not begin work until you can safely access the necessary point in the wall
D Extend the scaffolding using planks and ropes
Correct Answer: C Do not begin work until you can safely access the necessary point in the wall
Explanation: Never work at height on platforms or equipment that do not provide safe access.
9. There is a section of scaffolding that is getting in the way of bringing up tools and equipment. What should you do? Give ONE answer
A Find a different way of lifting up tools and equipment
B Remove the section of scaffold and safely store the removed parts
C Remove the section of scaffold when bringing up items, and replace it immediately after
D Report this to your supervisor so adjustments to the scaffold, or the system of work, can be considered
Correct Answer: D Report this to your supervisor so adjustments to the scaffold, or the system of work, can be considered
Explanation: If something is getting in the way of your safe system of work, you must report this to your supervisor.
10. You are asked by your supervisor to remove one piece of scaffold tube to ensure easy access to a chimney. You are not a scaffolder, but it will be an easy task - what should you do? Give ONE answer
A Do it but replace it immediately when it is no longer in the way
B Do it only if your supervisor has authorised you to do so in writing
C Do not do it
D Do not do it and report this to the police
Correct Answer: C Do not do it
Explanation: You should never do, or be asked to do, a task you are not properly trained and competent for.
11. Who can change a damaged gas input pipe on a gas boiler? Give ONE answer
A Anyone with the requisite knowledge and experience
B Only a Gas Safe registered engineer
C Only a qualified technician
D Only an employee of the manufacturer
Correct Answer: B Only a Gas Safe registered engineer
Explanation: This job must be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
12. Whilst working on a commercial boiler, you notice a fault in the ignition transformer that could have caused fatal injury. What should you do? Give ONE answer
A File an insurance claim
B Inform the Health and Safety Executive
C Report this to the local gas authority
D Report this to the police
Correct Answer: B Inform the Health and Safety Executive
Explanation: Fittings that are liable to cause severe injury or death must be reported to the Health and Safety Executive.
13. You need to test a boiler's expansion vessel. Are you permitted to do this? Give ONE answer
A Only if you are authorised, trained, and competent
B Only if you are experienced in pressure-testing vessels
C Only if you have the correct insurance coverage
D Only if you initially installed the boiler
Correct Answer: A Only if you are authorised, trained, and competent
Explanation: Pressure testing for both vessels and pipes must only be done by authorised, trained, and competent persons.
14. You are working in a commercial kitchen, and suspect there is a gas leak from the refrigerator. Who should inspect it? Give ONE answer
A Only a Gas Safe registered engineer
B Only an engineer from an F-gas registered company
C Only the engineer who installed the refrigerator
D Only the manager of the property
Correct Answer: B Only an engineer from an F-gas registered company
Explanation: Maintenance and servicing of systems that use refrigerant gas must only be carried out by engineers from F-Gas registered companies.
15. Whilst working on a long-term project, you begin to notice that people are becoming less strict about adhering to PPE requirements. What should you do? Give ONE answer
A Inform someone on site in a position of authority
B Nothing in particular, as this is not your responsibility
C Put up more mandatory PPE signs
D Report this to the Health and Safety Executive
Correct Answer: A Inform someone on site in a position of authority
Explanation: If you have concerns about health and safety on site, you should bring this up with your supervisor or someone in a position of authority.
16. You are working on a task that requires welding. From which TWO sources must you obtain authority before beginning work? Give TWO answers
A Site management
B The Health and Safety Executive
C Your colleagues
D Your doctor
E Your supervisor or manager
Correct Answer: A Site management, E Your supervisor or manager
Explanation: Site management, and your personal supervisor or manager, must approve hot works before they are carried out.
17. You must ensure you have access to a fire extinguisher before beginning work. Where should this extinguisher be located? Give ONE answer
A By the nearest emergency exit
B In the welfare facilities
C In your immediate area
D Within 100m
Correct Answer: C In your immediate area
Explanation: You must have an extinguisher immediately available before beginning hot works.
18. You need to use a blowtorch on a job near to a stack of cut timber. What should you do? Give ONE answer
A Douse the timber with water
B Place a non-combustible mat over the timber
C Remove the timber
D You should never use a blowtorch near combustible materials
Correct Answer: B Place a non-combustible mat over the timber
Explanation: If there is combustible material in the vicinity of a job involving a blowtorch, you must cover the material with a non-combustible mat.
19. You are carrying out welding, and will be leaving the job at 18:00. When is it likely you should stop welding? Give ONE answer
A 15:00
B 17:00
C 18:00
D 19:00
Correct Answer: B 17:00
Explanation: Most hot works should be stopped one hour before you are planning to leave a job. You must check your permit to work, however, as this may change from job to job.
20. What is required before you can begin soldering copper water pipes? Give ONE answer
A Authorisation from your colleagues
B Clearance from the local water authority
C Hot-work permit
D Permission from the Health and Safety Executive
Correct Answer: C Hot-work permit
Explanation: You must acquire a hot-work permit before you begin soldering.
21. Which TWO of the following must take place before you start work on pipes in an enclosed attic space? Give TWO answers
A Medical examination
B Nothing in particular
C Preparation of construction phase plan
D Preparation of method statement
E Risk assessment
Correct Answer: D Preparation of method statement, E Risk assessment
Explanation: Before working in a confined space, a risk assessment and method statement must be completed.
22. Which of the following is an example of an intrinsically safe source of light? Give ONE answer
A Candle
B Mains electricity with generator-powered backup
C Mains powered overhead lamp with secure rubber casing
D Torch that does not create a spark
Correct Answer: D Torch that does not create a spark
Explanation: Intrinsically safe light sources are ones that do not create a spark.
23. Whilst carrying out work in a basement, your colleague informs you that hydrogen sulphide has been detected. What must happen now? Give ONE answer
A All workers must be issued with full face respirators
B The area must be immediately evacuated
C You must monitor the space for further gas leaks
D You must stop using any equipment that creates sparks
Correct Answer: B The area must be immediately evacuated
Explanation: You must immediately evacuate any confined space where flammable or toxic gases are detected.
24. Whilst carrying out work in a basement commercial kitchen, you notice and report a refrigerant leak. What measures must be taken with the space? Give TWO answers
A All naked flames must be extinguished
B It must be ventilated
C Nobody must enter unless they are wearing a full face respirator
D The space must be pumped with oxygen
Correct Answer: A All naked flames must be extinguished, B It must be ventilated
Explanation: Where refrigerant gas leaks into an enclosed area, it must be ventilated, there must be no flames, and nobody may re-enter until it is safe to do so.
25. You have finished carrying out pipe repairs with a welding torch. What should you before leaving the job? Give TWO answers
A Coat the pipes with wax sealant
B Douse the pipes with water
C Inspect the area, usually one hour after finishing
D Leave the torch running for two minutes
E Let your supervisor or manager know the job has been completed
Correct Answer: C Inspect the area, usually one hour after finishing, E Let your supervisor or manager know the job has been completed
Explanation: When you have finished carrying out hot works, you must return to inspect the area, and inform your supervisor or manager that the task is complete.
26. You are removing the insulation boards around a radiator. What must you be aware of? Give ONE answer
A The boards may no longer be manufactured, so may be difficult to replace
B They may contain asbestos
C They may contain legionella
D They may splinter
Correct Answer: B They may contain asbestos
Explanation: Many materials including radiator insulation boards are liable to contain asbestos.
27. Your colleague is using solvent cement on some pipes and begins to feel nauseous. What should you do? Give ONE answer
A Ask them to erect a screen
B Encourage them to take a break
C Stop work and ensure they are wearing respiratory protective equipment
D Take them outside and report this to your supervisor so first aid can be arranged
Correct Answer: D Take them outside and report this to your supervisor so first aid can be arranged
Explanation: Solvent-based products can cause nausea or headaches, and if this happens the sufferer must be taken for fresh air and receive first aid treatment.
28. You are working in an enclosed basement space with halogen strip lighting. What should be in place in case this fails? Give ONE answer
A Nothing in particular
B There should be a generator powered backup light
C You should be issued with an intrinsically safe torch
D You should understand the safest route to the nearest exit point
Correct Answer: C You should be issued with an intrinsically safe torch
Explanation: Anyone working in an enclosed space should be issued with intrinsically safe personal backup torches in case the lighting fails.
29. You notice what you think may be asbestos in the rope seal of a boiler you are working on. What should you do? Give ONE answer
A Halt work immediately and call an asbestos specialist
B Halt work immediately, and report the find to your supervisor
C Immediately remove the rope seal and take it to a safe location
D Work around the rope seal without disturbing it
Correct Answer: B Halt work immediately, and report the find to your supervisor
Explanation: If you think you may have found asbestos, you must stop work and report the find to your supervisor.
30. Whilst locating a water shut-off valve in a basement you find a hypodermic needle. What should you do? Give ONE answer
A Check the needle for liquid, and if it is empty take it to general waste
B Cordon off the area and call the police
C Ensure you do not touch it, and continue with your work
D Remove it using gloves and grips, and report the find to your supervisor
Correct Answer: D Remove it using gloves and grips, and report the find to your supervisor
Explanation: Any discarded drug equipment must be safely removed and reported.
31. Why is it important to be careful about fumes produced during work? Give ONE answer
A
B No particular reason
C They can prove fatal if inhaled
D They indicate fuel is being wasted
E They indicate that a tool is malfunctioning
Correct Answer: A , C They can prove fatal if inhaled
Explanation: Fume inhalation is dangerous, and can prove fatal.
32. When should stepladders be used? Give ONE answer
A Only if a risk-assessment establishes that there is no suitable alternative
B Whenever conditions are wet
C Whenever there is not a trained scaffolder on site
D Wherever work is taking place below a height of 1.9m
Correct Answer: A Only if a risk-assessment establishes that there is no suitable alternative
Explanation: Stepladders should only be used as a last resort, if a risk assessment deems there is not a suitable alternative.
33. You are using oxyacetylene equipment to heat up a joint in an attic space - which TWO of the following are risks you must consider? Give TWO answers
A Any gas leaks will be highly flammable
B The equipment may not fit into the confined space
C The process may lead to an atmosphere with dangerously high levels of oxygen
D The process may lead to an atmosphere with dangerously low levels of oxygen
E You may disturb bats
Correct Answer: A Any gas leaks will be highly flammable, C The process may lead to an atmosphere with dangerously high levels of oxygen
Explanation: The use of oxyacetylene equipment in attics and other confined spaces may result in an oxygen-rich atmosphere, and highly flammable gas leaks.
34. What is the preferred voltage for on-site power tools? Give ONE answer
A 110 volts
B 230 volts
C 400 volts
D There is no preferred voltage
Correct Answer: A 110 volts
Explanation: 110 volt tools are safer, and are preferred on site.
35. Which colour of power cable indicates the lowest voltage? Give ONE answer
A Black
B Blue
C Red
D Yellow
Correct Answer: D Yellow
Explanation: Where a cable is colour-coded, yellow indicates 110 volts: the lowest voltage.
36. You are about to begin work on a pipe that is lagged. What will this require? Give ONE answer
A You must be careful not to strip the lagging
B You must ensure the lagging is fire-retardant
C You must strip the entire pipe of its lagging
D You must strip the lagging 1m in either direction of the place of work
Correct Answer: D You must strip the lagging 1m in either direction of the place of work
Explanation: Lagged pipes must be stripped 1m in either direction of the place in which you will be doing work.
37. Which colour cable is used for 400 volt supply? Give ONE answer
A Black
B Blue
C Red
D Yellow
Correct Answer: C Red
Explanation: Red cables indicate a 400 volt supply
38. Who can work on electrical distribution systems? Give ONE answer
A Only authorised and competent people
B Only registered electricians
C Only the electrical service provider
D Only those people who need to access it
Correct Answer: A Only authorised and competent people
Explanation: Electrical distribution systems can only be worked on by authorised and competent people.
39. You see a tool running off of a blue cable. What voltage does this indicate? Give ONE answer
A 110 volt
B 230 volt
C 270 volt
D 400 volt
Correct Answer: B 230 volt
Explanation: Blue cables carry 230 volts.
40. Who can fit padlocks to electrical lock-out devices? Give ONE answer
A Anyone using the equipment
B Anyone working on site
C Only registered electricians
D Only the site manager
Correct Answer: A Anyone using the equipment
Explanation: Anyone can fit a padlock to lock-out devices so long as they are working on the equipment.
41. You arrive at your work area and see your colleague has been injured by an exposed electrical cable. What should be your FIRST action? Give ONE answer
A Administer first aid
B Assess the situation
C Drag your colleague away from the wire
D Put your colleague in the recovery position
Correct Answer: B Assess the situation
Explanation: If there has been an accident, you must assess the situation before taking any further action.
42. What must you be aware of when using an internal spring to bend copper pipes? Give ONE answer
A This can result in long-term knee damage if done repeatedly
B This will create friction heat and therefore an ignition hazard
C This will damage the spring
D This will transfer toxic copper traces to your hands
Correct Answer: A This can result in long-term knee damage if done repeatedly
Explanation: Using an internal spring to bend copper pipes can cause knee damage, if done repeatedly.
43. What must you make sure you do after working on a lead water pipe? Give ONE answer
A Ensure you are well hydrated
B Report it in the incident book
C Report to the first aider for a health screening
D Wash your hands thoroughly
Correct Answer: D Wash your hands thoroughly
Explanation: You must wash your hands thoroughly after working with lead, to prevent lead traces being ingested if you touch your mouth.