Surface Preparation & Safety Procedures Flashcards

When using a floor grinder to prepare a concrete subfloor, which PPE is most critical to prevent long-term health damage?

Answer: N95 respirator or higher

Concrete dust contains silica, which causes silicosis; an N95 or P100 respirator is essential when grinding.

A moisture vapor emission rate (MVER) test on a concrete slab reads 8 lbs/1000 sq ft/24 hrs. What is the appropriate next step before installing adhesive-set flooring?

Answer: Apply a moisture mitigation system

Most adhesive manufacturers require MVER ≤ 3–5 lbs; 8 lbs exceeds limits and requires a moisture mitigation coating.

Which tool is used to check that a concrete subfloor meets the flatness requirement of 3/16" over a 10-foot span?

Answer: 10-foot straightedge

A 10-foot straightedge is the standard tool to verify the 3/16" flatness tolerance across a concrete slab.

What is the primary hazard of using a propane-powered buffer in an enclosed space without ventilation?

Answer: Carbon monoxide poisoning

Propane combustion produces carbon monoxide, which is odorless and deadly in poorly ventilated spaces.

Before shot-blasting a concrete subfloor, the installer should first:

Answer: Remove all loose debris and oil contamination

Oil contamination must be removed before shot-blasting because it can embed into the surface and interfere with adhesion.

An installer notices a previous flooring contained asbestos-containing materials (ACM). What is the correct action?

Answer: Stop work and contact a licensed asbestos abatement contractor

Disturbing ACM without proper abatement violates EPA and OSHA regulations; only licensed contractors may remove it.

What does a pH reading above 9 on a concrete subfloor indicate before installing resilient flooring?

Answer: Elevated alkalinity that may attack adhesive bonds

High alkalinity (pH > 9) can break down adhesive chemistry and cause flooring failures; mitigation is required.