CSCS Tools and Equipment Safety 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Before using any power tool on a construction site, what must you do first?
- Inspect the tool for damage and check it is safe to use (Correct answer)
- Start the tool and listen for unusual sounds
- Oil all moving parts immediately
- Ask a coworker to hold it steady
Correct answer: Inspect the tool for damage and check it is safe to use
Before using any power tool, you must inspect it for visible damage, frayed cords, or defects to ensure it is safe to operate.
Question 2: Who is responsible for reporting a defective tool on a construction site?
- The site manager only
- The health and safety officer only
- Anyone who discovers the defect (Correct answer)
- The tool manufacturer
Correct answer: Anyone who discovers the defect
Anyone who discovers a defective tool has a duty to report it immediately to their supervisor to prevent injuries.
Question 3: What does the term 'PAT' stand for in relation to electrical tools?
- Portable Appliance Testing (Correct answer)
- Power Appliance Tagging
- Portable Approved Tool
- Power Assessment Test
Correct answer: Portable Appliance Testing
PAT stands for Portable Appliance Testing, which checks that portable electrical equipment is safe to use on site.
Question 4: What voltage is recommended for portable electrical tools used on construction sites in the US and UK to reduce the risk of electrocution?
- 240V
- 110V (Correct answer)
- 415V
- 12V
Correct answer: 110V
110V center-tapped to earth is the recommended voltage for portable tools on construction sites because a fault only delivers 55V, greatly reducing electrocution risk.
Question 5: What should you do if a power tool guard is missing or broken?
- Use the tool carefully without the guard
- Replace or repair the guard before use (Correct answer)
- Wear extra PPE and continue working
- Use the tool at lower speed
Correct answer: Replace or repair the guard before use
Guards must be in place and functional before using any power tool; using a tool without a guard exposes you to serious injury.
Question 6: Which of the following is the correct way to carry a sharp-edged hand tool such as a chisel?
- With the sharp edge pointing upward
- With the sharp edge pointing downward and away from the body (Correct answer)
- In your back pocket with the edge up
- Held horizontally at shoulder height
Correct answer: With the sharp edge pointing downward and away from the body
Sharp-edged tools should be carried with the cutting edge pointing down and away from the body to prevent accidental cuts.
CSCS Tools and Equipment Safety 1
Before using any power tool on a construction site, what must you do first?