CSCS High-Risk Activities 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When working in a confined space, what must be checked before entry?
- The lighting is sufficient
- Atmospheric testing for oxygen levels and hazardous gases (Correct answer)
- The space is clean and tidy
- A supervisor has been informed
Correct answer: Atmospheric testing for oxygen levels and hazardous gases
Confined spaces must be tested for oxygen deficiency, excess oxygen, and toxic or flammable gases before any worker enters.
Question 2: What is the purpose of a hot work permit on a construction site?
- To allow workers to take breaks in warm weather
- To authorize work that could generate heat, sparks, or flame near flammable materials (Correct answer)
- To confirm personal protective equipment has been issued
- To schedule welding deliveries
Correct answer: To authorize work that could generate heat, sparks, or flame near flammable materials
A hot work permit controls activities like welding, cutting, or grinding near combustible materials to prevent fires.
Question 3: Which action is required before excavating near underground services?
- Notify the local council
- Use only hand tools to dig the entire trench
- Obtain service drawings and use safe digging techniques to locate services (Correct answer)
- Place warning cones around the area
Correct answer: Obtain service drawings and use safe digging techniques to locate services
Service drawings must be obtained and safe digging practices used to avoid striking buried cables, pipes, or other utilities.
Question 4: What is the maximum safe angle of repose for an unsupported excavation in average soil?
- 90 degrees (vertical)
- 75 degrees
- 45 degrees (Correct answer)
- 30 degrees
Correct answer: 45 degrees
In average soil conditions, excavation sides should be battered back to 45 degrees or supported to prevent collapse.
Question 5: When should a worker refuse to use a mobile elevated work platform (MEWP)?
- When wind speeds exceed the manufacturer's safe limit (Correct answer)
- When the platform basket feels slightly cramped
- When no spotter is immediately available
- When work will take longer than one hour
Correct answer: When wind speeds exceed the manufacturer's safe limit
MEWPs must not be operated in wind speeds above the manufacturer's stated limit, as strong winds can cause the platform to overturn or swing.
Question 6: What does LOTO stand for in the context of high-risk construction activities?
- Load Out, Transfer Out
- Lockout/Tagout (Correct answer)
- Lift Operations and Transfer Operations
- Licensed Operator Training Organization
Correct answer: Lockout/Tagout
Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) is a safety procedure used to isolate energy sources before maintenance or repair work on equipment.
Question 7: A worker notices a scaffold has missing toe boards. What is the correct action?
- Continue working carefully to avoid stepping near the edge
- Report it and do not use the scaffold until it is repaired (Correct answer)
- Add improvised material to fill the gap temporarily
- Only use the scaffold for light tasks
Correct answer: Report it and do not use the scaffold until it is repaired
Missing toe boards are a defect that can allow tools or materials to fall on people below; the scaffold must be taken out of service until repaired.
CSCS High-Risk Activities 2
When working in a confined space, what must be checked before entry?