Controlling Risks Flashcards
6 cards from real IOSH practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Controlling Risks flashcards as text
What is a 'permit to work' system?
Answer: A formal written system used to control high-risk activities such as hot work, confined space entry, or electrical work
A permit to work is a formal, documented procedure that authorises certain people to carry out specific high-risk work under controlled conditions. It ensures that proper safeguards are in place before work begins and that all relevant people are aware.
What is a 'method statement'?
Answer: A document describing how a work activity will be carried out safely, step by step
A method statement (also called a safe method of work statement) is a document that describes how a work activity will be carried out safely, step by step. It identifies the hazards, risks and controls for each stage and is often used alongside risk assessments.
What does the acronym 'LEV' stand for?
Answer: Local Exhaust Ventilation
LEV stands for Local Exhaust Ventilation. It is an engineering control that captures airborne contaminants (dust, fumes, vapours) at or near their source before they can spread into the workplace and be inhaled by workers.
How should multiple control measures be applied?
Answer: In combination — using several layers of controls provides better protection
In practice, a combination of controls from different levels of the hierarchy is often used. This 'defence in depth' approach provides multiple layers of protection, so if one control fails, others are still in place.
What must an employer provide if PPE is necessary?
Answer: PPE that is suitable, properly fitting, maintained, stored correctly, and provided with training on its use
Under the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations, employers must provide PPE that is suitable for the risk and conditions, fits the wearer properly, is maintained in good condition, stored correctly, and provided free of charge. Training on its correct use must also be given.
What is 'isolation' as an engineering control?
Answer: Separating the hazard from people using physical barriers, distance or enclosures
Isolation involves physically separating the hazard from people. Examples include enclosing noisy machinery, using fume cupboards, installing barriers around dangerous processes, or locating hazardous operations in separate areas away from other workers.