CPCS Forward Tipping Dumper 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of the dumper's skip retention device (skip prop or stay)?
- To keep the skip in the raised position during tipping
- To hold the skip safely in the raised position during maintenance underneath (Correct answer)
- To improve the dumper's appearance
- To increase the loading capacity
Correct answer: To hold the skip safely in the raised position during maintenance underneath
The skip retention device (prop or stay) is a mechanical support that holds the skip securely in the raised position when maintenance or inspection work is being carried out underneath. It prevents the skip from falling unexpectedly, which could crush someone working beneath it.
Question 2: When loading a forward tipping dumper, where should the load be positioned in the skip?
- Piled as high as possible to maximise each trip
- Evenly distributed and not exceeding the skip's rated capacity or the top of the sides (Correct answer)
- All to one side for easier tipping
- Overhanging the back of the skip for visibility
Correct answer: Evenly distributed and not exceeding the skip's rated capacity or the top of the sides
The load must be evenly distributed within the skip and not exceed the rated capacity or the top of the skip sides. Uneven loading affects stability, while overloading raises the centre of gravity and increases the risk of overturning, particularly on slopes or uneven ground.
Question 3: What should a dumper operator do when visibility is restricted while travelling on site?
- Sound the horn continuously and keep driving
- Stop, get a banksman to guide movements, or find an alternative route with better visibility (Correct answer)
- Turn off the headlights to avoid dazzling others
- Increase speed to clear the area quickly
Correct answer: Stop, get a banksman to guide movements, or find an alternative route with better visibility
When visibility is restricted (by the load, dust, weather, or site layout), the operator must stop and use a trained banksman to guide movements safely, or find an alternative route. Travelling blind is one of the most common causes of dumper-related struck-by incidents.
Question 4: What does the CPCS category A09 cover?
- Ride-on roller
- Forward tipping dumper (Correct answer)
- 360-degree excavator
- Tower crane
Correct answer: Forward tipping dumper
CPCS category A09 specifically covers the forward tipping dumper. Operators must hold a valid A09 card to demonstrate they have been trained and assessed as competent to operate this category of plant.
Question 5: What is the risk of driving a forward tipping dumper with the skip in the raised position?
- Improved visibility ahead
- A dangerously high centre of gravity increasing the risk of overturning (Correct answer)
- Better fuel economy
- The machine will travel faster
Correct answer: A dangerously high centre of gravity increasing the risk of overturning
Travelling with the skip raised dramatically raises the centre of gravity, making the machine extremely unstable and prone to overturning, particularly on slopes, bumps, or when turning. The skip must always be lowered before travelling.
Question 6: In what situation should a forward tipping dumper never be used?
- On dry, level ground
- To transport persons in the skip or anywhere other than the operator's seat (Correct answer)
- To carry loose aggregates
- To transport soil across a site
Correct answer: To transport persons in the skip or anywhere other than the operator's seat
Persons must never ride in the skip or anywhere on the dumper other than the designated operator's seat. Passengers in the skip are at extreme risk of being ejected, crushed, or killed if the machine overturns or the skip is accidentally raised. This is a common cause of fatal accidents.
CPCS Forward Tipping Dumper 2
What is the primary purpose of the dumper's skip retention device (skip prop or stay)?