CSCS Health, Safety and Environment Test — Questions and Answers

Question 1: What is the purpose of ergonomic assessment in manual handling?

To measure the weight of loads only
To check if PPE fits correctly
To analyse the interaction between the worker, task, and environment to reduce injury risk (Correct answer)
To test the worker's strength

Correct answer: To analyse the interaction between the worker, task, and environment to reduce injury risk

Ergonomic assessment examines how the worker interacts with the task, tools, and environment to identify risk factors and design solutions that reduce the physical demands and risk of musculoskeletal disorders.

Question 2: A worker is found unconscious and not breathing on a construction site. After calling 999, what should you do while waiting for the ambulance?

Give them water to drink
Elevate their legs above heart level
Place them in the recovery position and wait
Begin CPR at 30 compressions to 2 breaths (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Begin CPR at 30 compressions to 2 breaths

If a casualty is unconscious and not breathing, you should begin CPR immediately at a ratio of 30 compressions to 2 rescue breaths (30:2). Continue CPR until the emergency services arrive, an AED is available, or the casualty shows signs of life.

Question 3: What must a construction site manager check about a waste carrier before allowing them to remove waste from site?

Only that the vehicle is roadworthy
Nothing — any vehicle can transport construction waste
Only that the driver has a valid driving licence
The carrier must hold a valid waste carrier registration issued by the Environment Agency, have appropriate vehicle insurance, and provide a correctly completed Waste Transfer Note — the registration can be verified on the Environment Agency's public register (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The carrier must hold a valid waste carrier registration issued by the Environment Agency, have appropriate vehicle insurance, and provide a correctly completed Waste Transfer Note — the registration can be verified on the Environment Agency's public register

Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and the Controlled Waste (Registration of Carriers and Seizure of Vehicles) Regulations 1991, anyone transporting controlled waste must be registered with the Environment Agency. The site manager must verify the carrier's registration (checkable online on the EA public register), ensure a complete Waste Transfer Note is produced, and confirm the waste is going to an appropriately permitted facility. Using an unregistered carrier is an offence.

Question 4: What colour does a CAT scanner display or indicate when it detects a power cable in 'Power' mode?

The signal strength increases and an audible warning sounds — the operator must mark the position and determine the depth before any excavation (Correct answer)
Blue for water
Green for safe to dig
No indication is given in Power mode

Correct answer: The signal strength increases and an audible warning sounds — the operator must mark the position and determine the depth before any excavation

In Power mode, the CAT detects the electromagnetic field naturally emitted by live power cables. The signal strength meter shows increasing readings as the detector approaches the cable, and an audible tone becomes louder. The operator must mark the cable's position on the ground and use the Genny to establish its depth. HSE guidance HSG47 requires all modes (Power, Radio, Genny) to be used.

Question 5: What records should an employer keep regarding PPE provision?

Records of PPE issued, training provided, maintenance, inspections, and face-fit test results (Correct answer)
Records are only needed for RPE
No records are needed
Only the purchase receipts

Correct answer: Records of PPE issued, training provided, maintenance, inspections, and face-fit test results

Employers should keep records of PPE issued to each worker, training provided, maintenance and inspection records, replacement schedules, and face-fit test results for RPE. These demonstrate compliance and aid in management.

Question 6: Under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, who has a duty to ensure electrical systems are safe?

The HSE inspector
Only qualified electricians
Only the client who commissioned the work
The duty holder — employers, self-employed persons, and employees (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The duty holder — employers, self-employed persons, and employees

The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 place duties on employers, self-employed persons, and employees (collectively 'duty holders') to ensure electrical systems are constructed, maintained, and used so as to prevent danger. This means everyone from site managers to operatives has a legal responsibility.

Question 7: How often must LEV systems be examined and tested under COSHH Regulation 9?

At least every 14 months (Correct answer)
Every 2 years
Every 6 months
Only when a fault is suspected

Correct answer: At least every 14 months

Under COSHH Regulation 9, LEV equipment must be thoroughly examined and tested at least every 14 months (or more frequently for certain processes). Records of examinations must be kept for at least 5 years.

Question 8: What should a risk assessment for manual handling on a construction site specifically consider?

The cost of materials
Site-specific factors such as uneven ground, confined spaces, weather, work at height, and coordination with other trades (Correct answer)
Only the weight of materials
Only the number of workers available

Correct answer: Site-specific factors such as uneven ground, confined spaces, weather, work at height, and coordination with other trades

Construction site manual handling assessments must consider site-specific factors including uneven or slippery ground, confined spaces, exposure to weather, the need to handle materials at height, and coordination with other trades working nearby.

Question 9: What must a principal contractor display on a construction site under CDM 2015?

The project's financial budget
The notification of the project (F10) in a visible location accessible to all workers (Correct answer)
Only the company logo
A list of all workers' home addresses

Correct answer: The notification of the project (F10) in a visible location accessible to all workers

Under CDM 2015 Regulation 14, the principal contractor must display the project notification (F10, submitted to the HSE by the client) in a readable condition in a position where it can be read by any worker engaged in the construction work. This ensures transparency about the key project duty holders.

Question 10: What is the typical latency period between asbestos exposure and the development of mesothelioma?

Exactly 10 years
Less than 1 year
2-5 years
15-60 years, with an average of around 30-40 years (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 15-60 years, with an average of around 30-40 years

Mesothelioma, a cancer of the lining of the lungs or abdomen caused almost exclusively by asbestos exposure, has a latency period typically ranging from 15 to 60 years, with most cases developing 30-40 years after first exposure. This long latency means that many people diagnosed today were exposed decades ago. There is currently no cure, and it is always fatal.

Question 11: Under the hierarchy of control, where does PPE sit?

First — use PPE before anything else
PPE is not part of the hierarchy
Last — only use PPE when other controls are not reasonably practicable (Correct answer)
Third — after elimination and engineering controls

Correct answer: Last — only use PPE when other controls are not reasonably practicable

PPE sits at the bottom of the hierarchy of control (Eliminate → Substitute → Engineering controls → Administrative controls → PPE). It should only be used as a last resort when other measures cannot adequately control the risk.

Question 12: What type of eye protection is needed when cutting materials with an angle grinder?

No eye protection if the guard is fitted
Standard spectacles
Sunglasses
Safety goggles or a face shield rated to BS EN 166 with appropriate impact resistance (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Safety goggles or a face shield rated to BS EN 166 with appropriate impact resistance

Angle grinding produces high-velocity particles that require safety goggles or a face shield rated to BS EN 166 (now superseded by BS EN ISO 16321). The eye protection must have appropriate impact resistance grade for the hazard.

Question 13: What is a Notifiable Non-Licensed Work (NNLW) category under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012?

Work that can be done by any construction worker without training
A category of asbestos work that is lower risk than licensed work but still requires notification to the relevant enforcing authority, medical examination of workers, and record keeping (Correct answer)
This category does not exist in UK regulations
Any work with asbestos that does not require a licence

Correct answer: A category of asbestos work that is lower risk than licensed work but still requires notification to the relevant enforcing authority, medical examination of workers, and record keeping

NNLW is an intermediate category for work that is not licensable but still carries sufficient risk to require notification to the enforcing authority, medical examinations for workers, and maintenance of health records. Examples include short-duration work on asbestos insulation board (AIB) such as drilling holes or removing a single panel. It was introduced in the 2012 update to the regulations.

Question 14: What is the daily exposure limit value for hand-arm vibration?

3.5 m/s²
7.5 m/s²
5.0 m/s² (Correct answer)
2.5 m/s²

Correct answer: 5.0 m/s²

The daily exposure limit value (ELV) for hand-arm vibration is 5.0 m/s² A(8). This must not be exceeded. Employers must take immediate action if monitoring shows that workers are being exposed above this level.

Question 15: What is the purpose of a permit-to-work system for electrical work on construction sites?

To formally control high-risk electrical work by documenting the hazards, precautions, and authorisation (Correct answer)
To schedule routine maintenance visits
To track material costs for electrical installations
To record the hours worked by electricians

Correct answer: To formally control high-risk electrical work by documenting the hazards, precautions, and authorisation

A permit-to-work is a formal documented system used to control high-risk activities including live electrical work. It identifies hazards, specifies precautions, and requires authorisation before work begins. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require that no live working is undertaken unless it is unreasonable to work dead, and a permit system manages this risk.

Question 16: What are the consequences of blocking a fire escape route on a construction site?

No consequences if the blockage is temporary
It is a criminal offence under the RR(FS)O 2005 and can result in prosecution, fines, or imprisonment (Correct answer)
A verbal warning only
A small fine only

Correct answer: It is a criminal offence under the RR(FS)O 2005 and can result in prosecution, fines, or imprisonment

Blocking fire escape routes is a serious criminal offence under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. It can result in enforcement action, unlimited fines, and up to 2 years' imprisonment for serious breaches.

Question 17: What is the purpose of the SNR (Single Number Rating) on hearing protection?

To indicate the protector's price category
To indicate the size of the hearing protector
To rate the comfort level of the hearing protector
To show the assumed level of noise reduction in decibels that the hearing protector provides (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To show the assumed level of noise reduction in decibels that the hearing protector provides

The SNR is a single figure in decibels that indicates the overall noise reduction provided by a hearing protector under laboratory conditions. In practice, real-world attenuation is typically lower than the SNR, so a real-world factor should be applied when selecting hearing protection.

Question 18: What information must an employer provide to employees about loads they handle?

No information is required
The weight of the load, its centre of gravity, and the heaviest side (Correct answer)
The cost of the load
Only the delivery address

Correct answer: The weight of the load, its centre of gravity, and the heaviest side

Under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, employers must provide information about the weight of loads, the location of the centre of gravity (especially if offset), and the heaviest side of an uneven load.

Question 19: Which of the three asbestos types is considered the most hazardous to health?

Chrysotile (white)
All three are equally hazardous with no difference in risk
Crocidolite (blue) (Correct answer)
Amosite (brown)

Correct answer: Crocidolite (blue)

Crocidolite (blue asbestos) is considered the most hazardous because its fibres are the thinnest and most easily inhaled deep into the lungs, and they are highly resistant to the body's natural defence mechanisms. However, the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 treat all three types as equally dangerous in legal terms, and all can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

Question 20: What diseases can be caused by exposure to asbestos fibres?

Only skin rashes
Asbestos is now known to be harmless
Only temporary coughing
Mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, asbestosis (fibrosis of the lungs), and diffuse pleural thickening (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, asbestosis (fibrosis of the lungs), and diffuse pleural thickening

Asbestos exposure can cause four main diseases: mesothelioma (cancer of the pleura or peritoneum, always fatal), asbestos-related lung cancer (greatly increased risk, especially in smokers), asbestosis (progressive fibrosis/scarring of the lungs), and diffuse pleural thickening (thickening of the lung lining causing breathlessness). Over 5,000 people die each year in the UK from asbestos-related diseases.

Question 21: What is the primary purpose of a tool lanyard when working at height?

To keep tools organised
To make tools easier to carry
To prevent dropped tools from striking workers below (Correct answer)
To comply with insurance requirements

Correct answer: To prevent dropped tools from striking workers below

Tool lanyards are used to tether tools to the worker or structure, preventing them from being dropped and striking people working below. A dropped tool, even from a modest height, can cause serious or fatal injuries.

Question 22: What is the legal framework for controlling vibration from construction activities that affects neighbouring properties?

Vibration is only controlled if it causes structural damage
Only piling work is subject to vibration controls
There is no legal control over construction vibration
Vibration is controlled under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 (statutory nuisance), BS 5228-2 (Code of practice for noise and vibration control on construction sites), and planning conditions — vibration limits at sensitive receptors must be monitored and complaints investigated (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Vibration is controlled under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 (statutory nuisance), BS 5228-2 (Code of practice for noise and vibration control on construction sites), and planning conditions — vibration limits at sensitive receptors must be monitored and complaints investigated

Construction vibration is controlled by: the Environmental Protection Act 1990 (vibration can constitute a statutory nuisance); BS 5228-2:2009+A1:2014 (provides guidance on vibration prediction, measurement, and control); planning conditions (often set vibration limits at sensitive receptors); and the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 (for work affecting adjoining properties). Continuous vibration monitoring at nearby properties is often required, with trigger and stop limits.

Question 23: How should hazardous substances be stored on a construction site according to COSHH and CLP requirements?

In the site canteen for easy access
Loose on open shelving with no specific arrangements
Anywhere that is convenient for the workers
In properly labelled, sealed containers in a secure, ventilated area with appropriate bunding and segregation of incompatible substances (Correct answer)

Correct answer: In properly labelled, sealed containers in a secure, ventilated area with appropriate bunding and segregation of incompatible substances

Hazardous substances must be stored in clearly labelled, sealed containers in secure, ventilated storage areas. Incompatible substances (e.g., oxidisers and flammables) must be segregated. Bunding must be provided for liquids to contain spills (typically 110% of the largest container). Access should be restricted to authorised persons.

Question 24: What is a Site Waste Management Plan (SWMP) and what is its purpose on a construction project?

SWMPs are only required for demolition projects
A SWMP is a document that forecasts the types and quantities of waste a construction project will produce, sets targets for waste minimisation, and records how waste is actually managed throughout the project lifecycle (Correct answer)
A SWMP is a plan for where to place bins on site
A SWMP is a plan for cleaning the site offices

Correct answer: A SWMP is a document that forecasts the types and quantities of waste a construction project will produce, sets targets for waste minimisation, and records how waste is actually managed throughout the project lifecycle

Although the mandatory SWMP Regulations 2008 were revoked in 2013, SWMPs remain best practice and are often required by clients, planning conditions, and BREEAM assessments. A SWMP forecasts waste types and volumes, identifies opportunities for waste prevention and reuse, sets recycling targets, and provides an ongoing record of waste management decisions throughout the project.

Question 25: What is the construction industry's responsibility regarding invasive non-native species such as Japanese knotweed?

Japanese knotweed can be composted on site
Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is an offence to cause Japanese knotweed and other listed invasive species to grow in the wild — construction sites must have a management plan, contaminated soil must be treated as controlled waste, and specialist treatment may be required before development (Correct answer)
Invasive species are not a concern for construction
Only the landowner is responsible, not the contractor

Correct answer: Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is an offence to cause Japanese knotweed and other listed invasive species to grow in the wild — construction sites must have a management plan, contaminated soil must be treated as controlled waste, and specialist treatment may be required before development

Under Section 14 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is an offence to plant or cause to grow in the wild any plant listed on Schedule 9, including Japanese knotweed. On construction sites, a management plan is required, contaminated soil must be disposed of as controlled waste at a permitted facility, and specialist herbicide treatment or excavation may be needed. The Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 also provides enforcement powers.

Question 26: What is a toolbox talk?

A demonstration of new power tools
A formal disciplinary meeting
A meeting to discuss which tools to purchase
A short, focused safety briefing delivered to workers on a specific hazard or topic relevant to their current work (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A short, focused safety briefing delivered to workers on a specific hazard or topic relevant to their current work

A toolbox talk is a short (typically 10-15 minute) safety briefing delivered to workers on site, focusing on a specific hazard or safety topic relevant to their current work activities. They are an effective way to reinforce safety messages, address emerging risks, and engage workers in safety discussions.

Question 27: What training must a worker receive before using a harness and lanyard system?

No training is needed if they have a CSCS card
Specific training in the correct fitting, use, and inspection of the harness system (Correct answer)
A one-hour online course is sufficient
Training is only needed for supervisors

Correct answer: Specific training in the correct fitting, use, and inspection of the harness system

Workers must receive specific, practical training in the correct fitting, use, inspection, and limitations of harness and lanyard systems before use. This includes understanding anchor points, fall factors, and pre-use checks.

Question 28: What is the correct hierarchy of control measures under COSHH?

Eliminate, substitute, enclose, ventilate, PPE (Correct answer)
PPE first, then ventilation, then substitution
PPE, training, signage, substitution, elimination
Ventilate, enclose, eliminate, substitute, PPE

Correct answer: Eliminate, substitute, enclose, ventilate, PPE

The COSHH hierarchy of control is: eliminate the substance entirely, substitute with a less hazardous alternative, enclose the process, use local exhaust ventilation (LEV), and finally use PPE as a last resort. PPE should never be the first line of defence.

Question 29: What must be checked about utility plans before starting excavation work according to HSG47?

Utility plans are not required for small excavations
Only electrical cable plans need to be checked
Plans must be obtained from all relevant utility providers, but must not be solely relied upon — they may be inaccurate or incomplete, so CAT and Genny surveys and trial holes are also essential (Correct answer)
Plans are only needed for excavations on public highways

Correct answer: Plans must be obtained from all relevant utility providers, but must not be solely relied upon — they may be inaccurate or incomplete, so CAT and Genny surveys and trial holes are also essential

HSE guidance HSG47 requires that utility plans are obtained from all relevant providers (electricity, gas, water, telecoms) before excavation begins. However, these plans must not be solely relied upon as they may be inaccurate, incomplete, or out of date. CAT and Genny surveys must always be conducted, and trial holes (hand-dug) used to confirm the position of services.

Question 30: What precautions should be taken when storing flammable liquids on a construction site?

Store them in the site office
No special precautions are needed for small quantities
Store in a secure, ventilated, bunded storage area away from ignition sources, with appropriate signage (Correct answer)
Store them anywhere convenient

Correct answer: Store in a secure, ventilated, bunded storage area away from ignition sources, with appropriate signage

Flammable liquids must be stored in a designated, secure, ventilated area with bunding to contain spills (110% of the largest container). The area must be away from ignition sources, have appropriate warning signs, and fire extinguishers nearby.

Question 31: What is the legal basis for requiring welfare facilities on construction sites?

There is no legal basis; it is just good practice
The Environmental Protection Act 1990
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, Schedule 2 (Correct answer)
The Building Regulations 2010

Correct answer: The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, Schedule 2

CDM 2015 Schedule 2 sets out the minimum welfare facilities required on construction sites. These are legal requirements, not just good practice. The principal contractor (or sole contractor on smaller projects) is responsible for ensuring these facilities are provided and maintained.

Question 32: Who is primarily responsible for ensuring adequate welfare facilities are provided on a construction site?

Each individual worker
The client only
The principal contractor (Correct answer)
The site foreman

Correct answer: The principal contractor

Under CDM 2015, the principal contractor has a legal duty to ensure suitable welfare facilities are available before construction work starts.

Question 33: What does the 'D' in the DR ABC protocol stand for?

Dressing
Danger (Correct answer)
Diagnosis
Defibrillation

Correct answer: Danger

In the DR ABC primary survey, D stands for Danger. Before approaching a casualty on a construction site, you must first check for dangers to yourself, bystanders, and the casualty.

Question 34: What gases should be monitored for when working in excavations that may be classified as confined spaces?

Gas monitoring is not required in excavations
Only nitrogen levels
Oxygen levels, flammable gases (methane), carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulphide as a minimum (Correct answer)
Only carbon dioxide

Correct answer: Oxygen levels, flammable gases (methane), carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulphide as a minimum

Excavations can become confined spaces where dangerous atmospheres develop. The Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 require monitoring for: oxygen depletion (below 19.5%) or enrichment (above 23.5%), flammable gases such as methane from landfill or geological sources, carbon monoxide from plant exhaust, and hydrogen sulphide from decomposing organic matter. Continuous monitoring is required during occupation.

Question 35: What is the main cause of fires on UK construction sites?

Electrical faults
Cooking
Hot work (welding, cutting, grinding) and arson (Correct answer)
Spontaneous combustion

Correct answer: Hot work (welding, cutting, grinding) and arson

HSE data indicates that hot work (welding, cutting, grinding) and arson are the leading causes of fires on UK construction sites. This is why hot work permits and site security are critical fire prevention measures.

Question 36: What is the legal requirement for asbestos awareness training for construction workers under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012?

Training is optional and at the employer's discretion
All workers whose work could foreseeably disturb asbestos must receive asbestos awareness training before starting such work, including information on properties of asbestos, health effects, likely locations, and emergency procedures (Correct answer)
Training is only required for workers over 25 years of age
Training is only required for asbestos removal operatives

Correct answer: All workers whose work could foreseeably disturb asbestos must receive asbestos awareness training before starting such work, including information on properties of asbestos, health effects, likely locations, and emergency procedures

Regulation 10 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 requires that all employees whose work could foreseeably expose them to asbestos receive adequate asbestos awareness training. This includes construction workers, maintenance staff, electricians, plumbers, and any tradesperson working in buildings that may contain asbestos. Training must be repeated at regular intervals.

Question 37: Which of the following construction activities is most likely to cause hand-arm vibration exposure?

Measuring with a laser level
Painting with a brush
Carrying bricks by hand
Using a pneumatic breaker to demolish concrete (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Using a pneumatic breaker to demolish concrete

Pneumatic breakers (jackhammers) are among the highest vibration magnitude tools used in construction. Other high-risk tools include hammer drills, angle grinders, chainsaws, and needle guns. Employers must assess the vibration magnitude and limit exposure times accordingly.

Question 38: What is the primary purpose of installing trench boxes during excavation work on a construction site?

To store tools and materials underground
To prevent the collapse of trench sides and protect operatives working within the excavation (Correct answer)
To channel rainwater away from the trench
To mark the boundaries of the excavation for surveying

Correct answer: To prevent the collapse of trench sides and protect operatives working within the excavation

Trench boxes (also called trench shields) are structural supports placed inside excavations to prevent the sides from collapsing onto workers. Under the CDM Regulations 2015 and the Work at Height Regulations 2005 (which also cover work below ground), adequate support must be provided to prevent collapse in any excavation where there is a risk.

Question 39: What is the purpose of a spill kit on a construction site and what should it contain?

A spill kit is a first aid kit for chemical burns
A spill kit is only needed at petrol stations
A spill kit is designed to contain and clean up accidental spills of oil, fuel, chemicals, or other pollutants before they reach drains or watercourses — it should contain absorbent granules, pads, booms, disposal bags, and PPE (Correct answer)
A spill kit is a tool for cleaning concrete spillages

Correct answer: A spill kit is designed to contain and clean up accidental spills of oil, fuel, chemicals, or other pollutants before they reach drains or watercourses — it should contain absorbent granules, pads, booms, disposal bags, and PPE

Spill kits are an essential pollution prevention measure on construction sites. They must be readily available wherever oil, fuel, or chemicals are stored or used. A typical kit contains absorbent granules, absorbent pads and rolls, containment booms (for watercourses), drain mats or covers, heavy-duty disposal bags, and PPE (gloves, goggles). All operatives should be trained in their use. This supports compliance with the Environmental Permitting Regulations 2016.

Question 40: When should a tourniquet be used to control bleeding on a construction site?

For all deep cuts
As the first option for any bleeding wound
Only for catastrophic limb bleeding when direct pressure has failed (Correct answer)
Whenever a first aid kit is not available

Correct answer: Only for catastrophic limb bleeding when direct pressure has failed

A tourniquet should only be used as a last resort for catastrophic limb bleeding when direct pressure and wound packing have failed to control the haemorrhage. Incorrect tourniquet use can cause tissue damage and limb loss.

Question 41: In what position should an unconscious but breathing casualty be placed?

Flat on their back
Face down (prone)
Sitting upright
Recovery position on their side (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Recovery position on their side

An unconscious but breathing casualty should be placed in the recovery position (on their side) to keep their airway clear and prevent choking on vomit or other fluids. This is part of the standard UK first aid training for construction workers.

Question 42: When carrying out a COSHH assessment on a construction site, what must be considered?

Only the cost of the hazardous substance
Only whether PPE is available
The weather forecast for the week
The identity of the hazardous substances, who may be exposed, how exposure occurs, and what controls are needed (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The identity of the hazardous substances, who may be exposed, how exposure occurs, and what controls are needed

A COSHH assessment must identify all hazardous substances present, determine who may be exposed and how (inhalation, skin contact, ingestion), evaluate the level of exposure, and determine what control measures are required. It must be reviewed regularly and whenever circumstances change.

Question 43: What must be done if an underground electrical cable is accidentally damaged during excavation work?

Attempt to repair it with insulation tape
Cover it with soil and continue working
Evacuate the area immediately, report to the site manager, and contact the utility provider (Correct answer)
Ignore it if no sparking is visible

Correct answer: Evacuate the area immediately, report to the site manager, and contact the utility provider

If an underground cable is struck, all personnel must evacuate the immediate area as the cable may still be live. The site manager must be informed, the area secured, and the relevant Distribution Network Operator (DNO) contacted immediately. Under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, continuing to work near a damaged cable is extremely dangerous and unlawful.

Question 44: What does 'dynamic risk assessment' mean in the context of manual handling?

A computer-based assessment tool
A continuous, on-the-spot assessment of changing conditions and risks during work (Correct answer)
An assessment done by the HSE
A formal written assessment done annually

Correct answer: A continuous, on-the-spot assessment of changing conditions and risks during work

A dynamic risk assessment is an ongoing, real-time assessment where the worker continuously evaluates the changing conditions and adjusts their approach accordingly. This supplements the formal written assessment.

Question 45: What is the recommended safe method for stockpiling excavated material (spoil) adjacent to a trench?

Spoil should be pushed back into the trench as soon as possible
Spoil can be placed right at the edge of the trench
There are no requirements for spoil placement
Spoil must be kept at least 1 metre from the edge of the excavation and not heaped to a height that could cause instability (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Spoil must be kept at least 1 metre from the edge of the excavation and not heaped to a height that could cause instability

HSE guidance requires excavated spoil to be placed at least 1 metre from the edge of the excavation. Heavy spoil near the edge increases the lateral pressure on the trench sides and significantly increases the risk of collapse. Additionally, loose spoil at the edge can fall into the excavation onto workers below.

Question 46: What angle should a leaning ladder be placed at against a structure?

45 degrees
90 degrees
60 degrees
75 degrees (1 out for every 4 up) (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 75 degrees (1 out for every 4 up)

A leaning ladder should be placed at an angle of 75 degrees to the horizontal, which equates to a ratio of 1 unit out for every 4 units up. This provides optimal stability and reduces the risk of the ladder slipping.

Question 47: What does the 'B' in DR ABC stand for?

Bleeding
Burns
Bandage
Breathing (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Breathing

In the DR ABC protocol, B stands for Breathing. After checking the airway (A), you look, listen, and feel for normal breathing for up to 10 seconds. If the casualty is not breathing normally, you should begin CPR.

Question 48: Under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, what standard must a voltage tester meet for safe isolation procedures?

It must comply with HSE Guidance Note GS38 (Correct answer)
Any multimeter is acceptable
There is no specific standard for voltage testers
It must be a non-contact voltage indicator only

Correct answer: It must comply with HSE Guidance Note GS38

HSE Guidance Note GS38 specifies the requirements for test instruments used during safe isolation. Voltage testers must have fused test leads, finger guards, insulated probes with limited exposed tips, and be proved on a known live source before and after testing. Non-contact voltage indicators (volt sticks) are useful aids but must not be relied upon as the sole means of proving dead.

Question 49: Under COSHH Regulation 7, what is the general duty placed on employers?

To ensure that exposure of employees to substances hazardous to health is either prevented or, where this is not reasonably practicable, adequately controlled (Correct answer)
To provide PPE to all workers regardless of risk
To ban all hazardous substances from the workplace
To report all substance use to the HSE

Correct answer: To ensure that exposure of employees to substances hazardous to health is either prevented or, where this is not reasonably practicable, adequately controlled

COSHH Regulation 7 places a general duty on employers to prevent exposure to hazardous substances, or where prevention is not reasonably practicable, to adequately control exposure. This is the fundamental requirement around which all COSHH controls are built.

Question 50: What must a construction site include in its environmental management plan?

Pollution prevention measures, waste management procedures, noise and dust control plans, ecological protection measures, water management strategies, energy efficiency targets, community liaison arrangements, and emergency spill response procedures (Correct answer)
Environmental management plans are not required for construction sites
Only a list of skip providers
Only the site manager's contact details

Correct answer: Pollution prevention measures, waste management procedures, noise and dust control plans, ecological protection measures, water management strategies, energy efficiency targets, community liaison arrangements, and emergency spill response procedures

A construction environmental management plan (CEMP) is typically required by planning conditions and should cover: pollution prevention (water, soil, air); waste management aligned with the hierarchy; noise and vibration control; dust suppression; ecological protection and mitigation; surface water and drainage management; energy and resource efficiency; community liaison; and emergency response procedures. It is a living document updated throughout the project.

Question 51: What must be included in an asbestos management plan for a non-domestic building?

Only the location of asbestos materials
Just a statement that asbestos may be present
The location and condition of all known ACMs, a risk assessment for each, a monitoring programme, an action plan for management or removal, and information to be given to anyone who might disturb the materials (Correct answer)
The management plan is only required for buildings built before 1970

Correct answer: The location and condition of all known ACMs, a risk assessment for each, a monitoring programme, an action plan for management or removal, and information to be given to anyone who might disturb the materials

Under Regulation 4 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, the asbestos management plan must include: a register of all known and presumed ACMs with their location and condition; a risk assessment for each; a monitoring programme to check condition over time; a prioritised action plan; procedures for communicating ACM information to contractors and occupants; and procedures for dealing with emergencies.

Question 52: What type of RPE is required for work involving asbestos removal?

Safety goggles
A minimum of FFP3 disposable mask or powered air-purifying respirator, depending on the type and extent of work (Correct answer)
A standard dust mask (FFP1)
A standard FFP2 mask

Correct answer: A minimum of FFP3 disposable mask or powered air-purifying respirator, depending on the type and extent of work

Asbestos work requires a minimum of FFP3 protection (APF 20) for lower-risk tasks. Licensed asbestos removal typically requires powered air-purifying respirators or airline breathing apparatus with higher protection factors.

CSCS Health, Safety and Environment Test

The CSCS Health, Safety and Environment Test is required to obtain the CSCS Green Card for UK construction site workers, covering working at height, manual handling, PPE, fire safety, COSHH, electrical safety, and environmental awareness.

Questions

45 min

Time Limit

72%

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