197 practice questions for the CITB HS&E operatives test (the CSCS test), written by FreeExamPath from UK health and safety law and HSE guidance, with every answer explained. Choose an area, pick an answer and check yourself straight away.
About these questions
These are FreeExamPath's own questions on the topics of the operatives test, written from UK law and HSE guidance. They are not CITB test questions, and FreeExamPath is not affiliated with CITB or CSCS. The CSCS website
A new worker has just arrived at an unfamiliar construction site. What should happen before work starts?
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Correct answer: A — Receive a site-specific safety induction
Why?Site inductions communicate the local hazards and emergency arrangements before a worker begins. An informal introduction from a workmate is not a substitute.Source
On a project with several contractors, who coordinates health and safety during the construction phase?
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Correct answer: D — The principal contractor
Why?The principal contractor plans, manages and coordinates the construction phase. The principal designer has a different role centred on the pre-construction phase.Source
Which CDM dutyholder coordinates health and safety during the pre-construction design phase?
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Correct answer: B — The principal designer
Why?The principal designer manages and coordinates health and safety in the pre-construction phase. The principal contractor leads the construction phase instead.Source
Where should workers be able to take meal breaks on a construction site?
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Correct answer: C — In a suitable rest area away from contamination
Why?Suitable rest facilities must be provided, including arrangements for eating meals. A materials bay can still expose workers to site hazards.Source
Who normally makes a statutory RIDDOR report after a reportable work accident?
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Correct answer: C — The employer or another responsible person
Why?RIDDOR reporting is generally the duty of the responsible person, such as the employer. Workers should report accidents internally but are not usually the statutory reporter.Source
Your firm is repairing a site entrance beside a busy pavement. Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, whose safety must the employer also consider?
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Correct answer: D — Members of the public who could be affected
Why?Section 3 of the Act requires employers to run their work so that people they do not employ, including the public, are not put at risk. The duty is not limited to people on the payroll or signed in.Source
On a project with more than one contractor, who must appoint the principal designer and the principal contractor?
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Correct answer: C — The client who commissions the work
Why?Under CDM 2015 the client must appoint both dutyholders where more than one contractor will work on the project. HSE enforces the law but does not appoint anyone to these roles.Source
A construction project is large enough to be notifiable under CDM 2015. Who has the duty to notify HSE?
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Correct answer: A — The client for the project
Why?Regulation 6 of CDM 2015 places the notification duty on the client. The principal contractor manages the construction phase, but notifying HSE is not its legal duty.Source
A homeowner hires two building firms for a house extension. Under CDM 2015, who normally carries out the client duties?
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Correct answer: B — The principal contractor for the project
Why?Domestic clients are covered by CDM 2015, but where more than one contractor is involved their client duties pass to the principal contractor (or to the principal designer by written agreement). Home projects are not exempt.Source
You must change into special work clothing on site. What must be available for the clothes you are not wearing during working hours?
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Correct answer: D — A place where they can be locked away
Why?CDM 2015 Schedule 2 requires changing rooms where special clothing is worn and facilities for locking away workers' own clothing. Open hooks or a van do not keep clothing secure.Source
What must washing facilities on a construction site include?
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Correct answer: C — Hot and cold, or warm, water, soap and drying
Why?Washing facilities must provide clean hot and cold, or warm, water (running where reasonably practicable), soap or similar, and towels or another way of drying. Sanitiser gel does not replace washing facilities.Source
Besides seating, what must a site rest area provide?
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Correct answer: A — Facilities to prepare and eat meals and boil water
Why?Rest facilities must include arrangements for preparing and eating meals and a means of boiling water. Cleaning work tools in a rest area would bring contamination into it.Source
When may men and women use the same toilet on a construction site?
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Correct answer: B — When it is in its own room that locks from the inside
Why?Separate rooms for men and women are needed unless each toilet is in a separate room with a door that can be secured from the inside. Site size or duration does not remove this requirement.Source
A low beam that people could walk into is marked with tape. Which pattern is a standard marking for this kind of obstacle?
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Correct answer: D — Alternating yellow and black stripes
Why?The Safety Signs Regulations 1996 mark obstacles and dangerous locations with alternating yellow and black (or red and white) stripes. Green signals a safe condition, not a hazard.Source
Your site uses a siren for emergencies. Under the Safety Signs Regulations 1996, how must an evacuation signal sound?
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Correct answer: A — Continuous
Why?The Regulations require the sound of an evacuation signal to be continuous so it cannot be mistaken for other signals. Short or repeated blasts are used for other messages on many sites.Source
You discover a small fire starting in a waste skip. What should you do first?
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Correct answer: C — Raise the alarm at once so that others are warned
Why?Raising the alarm first starts the site emergency procedure and warns others; only tackle a fire if trained and it is safe. Fighting it before telling anyone delays help if the fire grows.Source
You start on a new site and do not know who the first aider is. Who has the duty to tell you about first-aid arrangements?
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Correct answer: B — Your employer
Why?The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 require employers to inform employees of the first-aid arrangements, including where equipment and first aiders are. It is not left to workers to discover.Source
A first-aid needs assessment shows a small team does not need a trained first aider. Who should take charge of first-aid arrangements?
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Correct answer: A — An appointed person chosen by the employer
Why?Where a first aider is not required, the employer should appoint a person to take charge of first-aid arrangements, such as looking after equipment and calling the emergency services. Provision is still required.Source
Which of these injuries is a 'specified injury' that must be reported under RIDDOR 2013?
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Correct answer: B — A fractured arm
Why?Specified injuries include fractures other than to fingers, thumbs and toes, so a broken arm qualifies. A fractured finger is excluded from the specified injury list.Source
A mobile crane overturns on site but nobody is hurt. Under RIDDOR 2013, how should this be treated?
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Correct answer: C — As a reportable dangerous occurrence
Why?The overturning or failure of load-bearing parts of lifting equipment is a dangerous occurrence that must be reported even when nobody is injured. Injury is not required for this category.Source
You cut your hand slightly and a first aider applies a dressing. What else should happen?
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Correct answer: D — Report it and have it recorded in the accident book
Why?Minor injuries should still be reported to your supervisor and recorded, which helps spot patterns. RIDDOR reporting to HSE applies only to certain serious injuries and is the responsible person's duty.Source
A skip of mixed construction waste is collected by a registered waste carrier. What must be passed on with the waste?
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Correct answer: A — A written description, such as a waste transfer note
Why?The waste duty of care requires a written description of the waste to be transferred with it, usually a waste transfer note. A verbal description does not meet the duty.Source
Part-used tins of solvent-based paint need to be disposed of. What is the correct approach?
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Correct answer: B — Keep them separate as hazardous waste
Why?Hazardous waste such as solvent-based paint must be kept apart from other waste and passed to someone authorised to take it. Mixing it into general waste breaches the duty of care.Source
You need to wash out a concrete mixer. Where should the washout water go?
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Correct answer: C — Into the designated washout area on site
Why?Washout water must be contained, because surface water drains usually lead straight to streams and rivers. Open ground or a free-running drain still lets the waste escape and pollute.Source
Diesel leaks from a generator onto the ground near a drain. What should you do?
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Correct answer: D — Use the spill kit to contain it and report it
Why?A spill kit stops the diesel spreading into the drain, and reporting lets the site deal with the incident. Hosing it away washes the pollution into the drain system.Source
You enter an area marked as a hearing protection zone. What must you do?
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Correct answer: C — Wear the specified hearing protection
Why?Hearing protection must be worn in designated hearing protection zones. Personal judgement about the loudness cannot override that requirement.Source
After noisy work you notice ringing in your ears. What is the best response?
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Correct answer: A — Report the symptom and seek advice
Why?Ringing in the ears can be a sign of noise-related hearing damage and should be reported. Waiting for permanent symptoms could delay preventive action.Source
Which change controls noise nearer its source rather than relying only on ear defenders?
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Correct answer: D — Using quieter equipment or methods
Why?Reducing noise at source is preferable to relying solely on hearing protection. A warning notice does not reduce the amount of noise produced.Source
A worker has fingers that turn white after using vibrating tools. What might this indicate?
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Correct answer: B — Hand-arm vibration-related damage
Why?Finger blanching is a recognised symptom associated with hand-arm vibration syndrome. Gripping the tool harder will not correct the underlying risk.Source
A tight-fitting respirator is required for dusty cutting work. What check is needed for the wearer?
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Correct answer: B — A suitable face-fit test for that respirator
Why?Tight-fitting respiratory protection needs fit testing to establish an adequate seal. The size used by a colleague does not prove fit for another wearer.Source
Dry brushing raises clouds of fine construction dust. What is a safer cleaning approach?
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Correct answer: C — Use suitable vacuum extraction or wet methods
Why?Dust should be controlled with suitable extraction or wet methods. Sweeping when fewer people are present still spreads harmful airborne dust.Source
Who should carry out work that could disturb known asbestos-containing materials?
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Correct answer: B — People with suitable training and authorisation
Why?Work with asbestos requires task-appropriate competence and controls, with a licence for some work. General construction experience alone is not enough.Source
Wet cement regularly touches your wrists during work. How should skin exposure be controlled?
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Correct answer: A — Use suitable gloves and wash contamination off promptly
Why?Wet cement can damage skin, so contact should be prevented and contamination washed away. Hand cream is not a substitute for protective gloves.Source
You develop an itchy skin rash after using site chemicals. What should you do?
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Correct answer: B — Report it and seek appropriate advice
Why?Early reporting helps identify occupational dermatitis and prevent further exposure. Changing gloves without reporting may leave the harmful cause uncontrolled.Source
Heavy paving slabs need moving repeatedly. Which approach best follows manual-handling principles?
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Correct answer: C — Use suitable mechanical handling aids where practical
Why?Hazardous manual handling should be avoided or reduced where reasonably practicable. Good lifting technique alone does not remove the need for suitable aids.Source
Before a manual lift that cannot be avoided, what should be considered?
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Correct answer: A — The load, task, surroundings and individual capability
Why?A manual-handling assessment considers the full task, load, working environment and the person. Experience with yesterday’s load cannot replace the current assessment.Source
Work demands are affecting your mental health. What is a useful early step?
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Correct answer: D — Raise the concerns so work risks can be addressed
Why?Work-related stress risks should be identified and managed, with concerns raised early. A shift change alone may leave the underlying problem untouched.Source
You wear ear defenders in a noisy area but lift one side off to chat for a few minutes. What is the effect?
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Correct answer: C — It can greatly reduce the protection you get
Why?HSE advises wearing hearing protection all the time in noisy work and hearing protection areas, because removing it even briefly cuts the protection a lot. Short breaks are not averaged out harmlessly.Source
Which simple sign suggests that noise at work may be high enough to need action?
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Correct answer: A — Having to raise your voice to talk at about 2 m
Why?HSE says that needing to raise your voice for a normal conversation at about 2 m apart indicates noise may need action. Being audible off site does not by itself show a risk to hearing.Source
Your employer arranges regular hearing checks for workers exposed to high noise. What is their main purpose?
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Correct answer: D — To detect early hearing damage so action can be taken
Why?Health surveillance for hearing picks up early signs of damage so the employer can act. It does not replace noise controls or allow anyone to stop wearing protection.Source
You regularly use vibrating tools outdoors in winter. Which step helps keep the blood circulating in your hands?
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Correct answer: B — Keep your hands warm and dry throughout the day
Why?HSE advises keeping warm and dry to encourage good blood circulation, which helps protect against vibration white finger. A tight grip increases the vibration passed into the hands.Source
Why should blunt or worn tool bits and discs be replaced promptly?
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Correct answer: C — Worn parts can increase vibration and exposure time
Why?Poorly maintained, blunt tools vibrate more and take longer to do the job, increasing exposure. Maintenance is a key HSE control for hand-arm vibration, not just a matter of finish.Source
Besides vibration white finger, which condition is linked to regular use of hand-held vibrating tools?
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Correct answer: B — Carpal tunnel syndrome
Why?HSE links hand-arm vibration with both hand-arm vibration syndrome and carpal tunnel syndrome. Asthma and dermatitis are caused by substances, not vibration.Source
A product label shows a pictogram of liquid dripping onto a hand and onto a surface. What does it warn of?
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Correct answer: A — The substance is corrosive
Why?The corrosion pictogram warns that a substance can burn skin, damage eyes or eat into materials. Flammable substances show a flame symbol instead.Source
A product label shows a person's outline with a star-shaped mark on the chest. What does this pictogram warn about?
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Correct answer: D — A serious longer-term health hazard
Why?This health hazard pictogram is used for effects such as cancer or breathing sensitisation. Minor irritants use the exclamation mark pictogram instead.Source
A water-based cleaner would do the same job as the solvent cleaner your team uses. Under COSHH, what should happen?
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Correct answer: D — Switch to the less hazardous cleaner if practicable
Why?COSHH puts preventing exposure first, including substituting a less hazardous substance. Relying on gloves or habit leaves the avoidable hazard in place.Source
You have been working with a hazardous substance and want a snack. What should you do?
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Correct answer: B — Wash your hands and eat away from the work area
Why?COSHH controls include not eating, drinking or smoking where substances may contaminate you, and washing first. Gloves or a rag can transfer the substance onto food.Source
Which disease can result from breathing respirable crystalline silica dust over time?
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Correct answer: C — Silicosis
Why?Silica dust from cutting materials such as concrete and stone can cause silicosis, as well as lung cancer and COPD. Mesothelioma and asbestosis are caused by asbestos.Source
You have a day's stubble and must wear a tight-fitting disposable mask for dusty work. What is the problem?
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Correct answer: A — The stubble can stop the mask sealing to your face
Why?Tight-fitting masks rely on a seal with the skin, and even short stubble lets dust leak in. This applies to disposable masks as well as full-face respirators.Source
Why does dust from cutting or sanding hardwood need to be controlled?
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Correct answer: B — It can cause asthma and, for hardwood, cancer
Why?Wood dust is one of HSE's main construction dusts; it can cause asthma, and hardwood dust can cause cancer. Treating it as a mere irritant leads to poor control.Source
In a building refurbished in the 1970s, which material could contain asbestos?
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Correct answer: A — A textured decorative coating on a ceiling
Why?HSE lists textured decorative coatings on walls and ceilings among materials that may contain asbestos. Plain timber, clay brick and glass are not typical asbestos materials.Source
A worker plans to use barrier cream instead of gloves when handling wet mortar. What is correct?
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Correct answer: D — Barrier creams are not a substitute for gloves
Why?HSE says there are no true barrier creams, as substances still work through to the skin. Suitable gloves are the protection; creams do not replace them.Source
You knelt in wet concrete and it has soaked through your trousers to the skin. What is the risk?
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Correct answer: C — Serious burns to the skin from the wet cement
Why?Cement-based products can cause serious skin problems including burns as well as dermatitis, so contaminated skin should be washed promptly. Waiting for it to dry prolongs contact.Source
You develop flu-like symptoms after working in a drain where rats are common. What should you do?
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Correct answer: B — See a doctor and mention your work near rats
Why?Leptospirosis (Weil's disease) from rat urine can start like flu, so telling a doctor about the work helps early diagnosis. Waiting or self-treating can let it become serious.Source
Which of these is one of the six areas in HSE's Management Standards for work-related stress?
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Correct answer: D — Control over the way you do your work
Why?The Management Standards cover demands, control, support, relationships, role and change. Commuting and personal finances are not among the six areas.Source
A powered drill makes an unusual grinding noise during use. What should you do?
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Correct answer: C — Stop using it and report the defect
Why?Suspected defective equipment should be taken out of use and reported for attention. Reserving it for lighter jobs still exposes users to the fault.Source
A coworker offers you a machine you have never been trained to operate. What should you do?
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Correct answer: D — Use it only after suitable training and authorisation
Why?Work equipment must be used by people who have appropriate training and information. Reading a manual alone does not make an untrained operator competent.Source
Which portable-tool electrical supply is commonly used on construction sites to lower shock risk?
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Correct answer: A — A reduced-voltage 110 V centre-tapped supply
Why?Reduced-voltage centre-tapped supplies can lessen electric shock risk for portable tools. An ordinary domestic supply offers no equivalent voltage reduction.Source
A worker is about to excavate near suspected underground cables. What should be done beforehand?
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Correct answer: D — Check service information and locate the cables
Why?Underground service plans and suitable locating methods must be used before excavation. Surface fittings cannot show every buried cable route.Source
A reversing vehicle has restricted rear visibility. What planned measure can help control the movement?
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Correct answer: D — Use a trained vehicle marshal where required
Why?A properly trained marshal may control reversing where the traffic plan requires one. An untrained bystander cannot reliably manage blind spots.Source
Hot cutting is planned near stored cardboard. What control should come before sparks are produced?
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Correct answer: C — Remove or protect the nearby combustible materials
Why?Hot work must be controlled to prevent sparks igniting combustibles. A watcher does not replace clearing or protecting combustible materials.Source
You must wear ear defenders and safety glasses together. What should your employer make sure of?
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Correct answer: D — The items are compatible and both still protect
Why?The PPE at Work Regulations require items worn together to be compatible and still effective. Dropping one item for comfort leaves a hazard uncontrolled.Source
Since April 2022, which workers do the PPE at Work Regulations protect besides employees?
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Correct answer: B — Limb (b) workers, such as many casual workers
Why?The 2022 amendment extended employers' PPE duties to limb (b) workers, who often work on a casual basis. The duty does not depend on age or length of service.Source
You are given a type of respirator you have never used before. What should your employer provide?
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Correct answer: C — Information, instruction and training on its use
Why?Employers must give adequate information, instruction and training so PPE is used correctly. Leaving workers to read the packaging does not meet that duty.Source
Correct answer: A — In the storage provided, kept clean and undamaged
Why?Employers must make sure PPE is properly stored, and workers should use that storage. Loose or exposed storage can damage PPE and stop it protecting you.Source
What is the purpose of an emergency stop control on a machine?
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Correct answer: C — To stop the machine quickly in an emergency situation
Why?PUWER requires emergency stop controls where needed so a machine can be stopped quickly. An emergency stop is not a means of isolation for maintenance.Source
A small offcut jams the feed of a running machine. What should you do?
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Correct answer: A — Switch off and make it safe before clearing the jam
Why?Reaching into or near moving parts risks serious injury, so the machine must be stopped and made safe first. Pushing material through still keeps you close to dangerous parts.Source
You will work near the rotating spindle of a pillar drill. Which practice reduces the risk of entanglement?
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Correct answer: B — Keep loose clothing, long hair and jewellery away
Why?Rotating parts can catch loose items and pull a person in. Loose gloves or sleeves can themselves be caught, so they increase rather than reduce the risk.Source
Which type of portable power tool carries the lowest risk of electric shock on site?
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Correct answer: D — Cordless battery-powered tools
Why?Battery-powered tools remove the mains supply altogether, so they are the lowest-risk option. Where mains is needed, reduced-voltage 110 V is preferred over 230 V.Source
A colleague is in contact with a live electrical cable and cannot let go. What should you do first?
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Correct answer: A — Switch off or isolate the supply before touching them
Why?Touching someone still in contact with a live conductor can electrocute you too, so the supply must be cut first. Water conducts electricity and makes things worse.Source
A tipper lorry's raised body touches an overhead power line. What should people on the ground do?
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Correct answer: C — Keep well away from the vehicle and its load
Why?A vehicle in contact with a power line, and the ground around it, can be live, so others must keep away. Timber can conduct and touching the vehicle risks electrocution.Source
A site dumper is fitted with a roll-over protective structure and a seat belt. When should the seat belt be worn?
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Correct answer: B — Whenever the dumper is being driven
Why?Where seat belts are fitted to plant with roll-over protection, they should be worn so the driver stays within the protective zone if it overturns. Overturns also happen on level ground and with empty skips.Source
A delivery lorry is being unloaded by a forklift. Where should the lorry driver be?
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Correct answer: D — In a safe area clear of the unloading
Why?Drivers should wait in a designated safe area away from the vehicle being unloaded. Standing on the bed or beside the forklift puts them in the path of falling loads and moving vehicles.Source
You finished welding beside timber formwork ten minutes ago. What should still be happening?
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Correct answer: D — Checking for smouldering until the fire watch ends
Why?Hot-work controls usually require a fire watch after work stops, because hidden smouldering can ignite later. A cooled weld does not mean nearby materials are safe.Source
Who may carry out repairs or alterations to a site's electrical installation?
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Correct answer: B — A person competent to do the work safely
Why?The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require people doing electrical work to have the knowledge and experience to prevent danger. Owning a tester or holding a senior role is not the same as competence.Source
Correct answer: A — So drivers can stop in time and protect people nearby
Why?Site speed limits help drivers react and stop safely where people and vehicles share the site. Fuel and noise are not the safety reason for them.Source
Roof work can be completed from a safe location at ground level. Which option should be preferred?
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Correct answer: C — Do the task from the ground where practical
Why?The work-at-height hierarchy starts with avoiding work at height where reasonably practicable. A harness does not take priority over avoiding the height.Source
For which task may a ladder be suitable after a proper risk assessment?
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Correct answer: B — Brief, low-risk work where safer equipment is unjustified
Why?A ladder may be suitable for low-risk, short-duration tasks when more protective equipment is not justified. Long or forceful tasks often need safer access.Source
Who may change the ties or guard rails on an access scaffold?
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Correct answer: A — People competent and authorised for the alteration
Why?Scaffolds must be altered by competent people under appropriate supervision. Familiarity with using a scaffold is not qualification to alter it.Source
Why should spoil heaps be kept back from the edge of an excavation?
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Correct answer: C — To reduce collapse and falling-material risks
Why?Spoil close to an excavation edge can fall in and add loads that cause collapse. Convenience for handling materials cannot outweigh this risk.Source
When should a competent person check an excavation support system during normal work?
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Correct answer: B — At the start of the working shift
Why?Excavations and supports must be inspected by a competent person at the start of shifts and at required other times. Waiting for visible movement may be too late.Source
Before mechanical digging near buried services, which combination is appropriate?
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Correct answer: D — Service plans and suitable cable-locating equipment
Why?Buried services should be identified using records and suitable locating equipment before digging. Street signs cannot confirm underground routes.Source
Why can a tank or deep chamber be dangerous even when it appears empty?
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Correct answer: A — It may contain too little oxygen or harmful gases
Why?Confined spaces can contain oxygen-deficient or toxic atmospheres without obvious warning signs. Poor lighting does not explain the main atmospheric hazard.Source
A task requires entry into a confined space. What is essential before anyone enters?
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Correct answer: D — Suitable risk controls, training and entry authorisation
Why?Confined-space entry requires appropriate assessment, controls, competence and any necessary permit arrangements. Ordinary PPE alone cannot address an unsafe atmosphere.Source
Who should plan a crane lifting operation before the lift takes place?
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Correct answer: C — A person competent to plan the lifting operation
Why?Lifting operations must be properly planned by a competent person. Knowing the load weight alone does not demonstrate lifting-planning competence.Source
A crane is holding a suspended load above the work area. Where should you stand?
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Correct answer: B — Outside the area beneath the suspended load
Why?People must be kept clear of suspended loads because they may fall or shift. A hard hat is not adequate protection from a dropped lifting load.Source
You are working from the basket of a boom-type MEWP and wearing a harness. Where should the short lanyard be attached?
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Correct answer: C — To the anchor point provided in the basket
Why?In a boom-type MEWP the restraint lanyard should be clipped to the designated anchor point in the basket. Attaching to a nearby structure could pull you out if the basket moves.Source
A leaning ladder is set up for a short task. What angle does HSE recommend?
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Correct answer: D — About 75 degrees: one out for every four up
Why?HSE recommends the 1-in-4 rule, which gives an angle of about 75 degrees. A flatter angle risks the foot sliding out; a steeper one risks it falling backwards.Source
While working on a ladder you need to reach a little further to one side. What should you do?
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Correct answer: A — Climb down and reposition the ladder
Why?HSE says do not overreach: keep your belt buckle within the stiles and move the ladder instead. Footing the ladder does not stop it tipping sideways when you lean.Source
A ladder is used for access to a scaffold platform. Unless another secure handhold exists, how far should it extend above the landing point?
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Correct answer: A — At least 1 metre above it
Why?HSE says access ladders should be tied and extend at least 1 m above the landing point to give a secure handhold. A ladder level with the platform leaves nothing to hold when stepping off.Source
A scaffold working platform is one from which a person could fall 2 metres or more. How often must it be inspected at minimum?
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Correct answer: D — At intervals not exceeding 7 days
Why?The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require such platforms to be inspected at least every 7 days, as well as after events likely to affect them. A single check after erection is not enough.Source
Before climbing a mobile access tower, what must be checked at its base?
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Correct answer: C — The castor brakes are locked on at every wheel
Why?Castor brakes must be locked so the tower cannot roll while someone is on it. Stabilisers or outriggers should be fitted as the instructions require, not folded away.Source
You must reach a valve on a roof covered with old cement sheets and roof lights. What applies?
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Correct answer: D — Treat them as fragile and use platforms or covers
Why?The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require precautions where people could fall through fragile surfaces such as old cement sheets and roof lights. Walking on bolt lines still means standing on the fragile sheets.Source
A hole in a floor has been covered with a board. What makes this cover acceptable?
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Correct answer: B — It is fixed in place and clearly marked
Why?Covers over holes must be secured so they cannot be moved and marked so people know what they are. A cover that blends in invites someone to lift or step on it unknowingly.Source
You need to clear rubble from a scaffold platform to the ground. What is acceptable?
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Correct answer: A — Lower it in a controlled way, such as a chute
Why?The Work at Height Regulations 2005 forbid throwing or tipping materials from height where this could injure someone. A warning shout does not make throwing safe.Source
A dumper will tip spoil into an excavation. What helps stop it running over the edge?
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Correct answer: C — Fixed stop blocks placed back from the edge
Why?Stop blocks give a physical barrier that halts the wheels before the edge. Lines and signs give no physical protection if the driver misjudges the distance.Source
A cable avoidance tool has located a buried cable near your dig. How should you expose the cable?
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Correct answer: A — By careful hand digging with suitable tools
Why?Once a service is located, it should be exposed by careful hand digging so it can be seen before machines work nearby. Picks, breakers and buckets can strike the cable.Source
A petrol generator is needed for work in a deep trench. Where should it be placed?
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Correct answer: D — Away from the trench so fumes cannot collect
Why?HSE warns against running petrol or diesel engines in or at the edge of excavations unless fumes are ducted away or ventilation is forced. Exhaust fumes can build up in a trench.Source
Why?HSE includes open-topped chambers among confined spaces, because dangerous gases or lack of oxygen can build up even without a lid. An open top does not make a space safe.Source
Work is needed inside a tank. What should be considered first?
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Correct answer: B — Whether the work can be done from outside
Why?HSE says the first step is to avoid entering confined spaces, for example by doing the work from outside. A clean-looking tank can still hold a dangerous atmosphere.Source
When should the air in a confined space be tested?
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Correct answer: D — Before entry, with monitoring during the work
Why?The atmosphere should be checked before entry, and continuous monitoring may be needed while work goes on. Many dangerous gases and low oxygen have no smell.Source
The air in a manhole seems stale. A colleague suggests pumping in pure oxygen. Why is this wrong?
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Correct answer: B — Extra oxygen greatly increases the risk of fire
Why?HSE warns never to 'sweeten' the air in a confined space with oxygen, because it greatly increases fire and explosion risk. Proper ventilation is used instead.Source
A load is slightly heavier than the safe working load marked on the sling. What should you do?
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Correct answer: A — Use another sling that is rated for the load
Why?LOLER requires lifting equipment to be marked with its safe working load, and that load must not be exceeded. Safety margins are not there to be used up.Source
Before using a webbing sling, you notice a cut along its edge. What should you do?
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Correct answer: C — Withdraw it from use and report it
Why?Damaged lifting accessories must be taken out of use, as a cut can make webbing fail suddenly. Tape hides the damage without restoring strength.Source
A worker wants to ride on a crane hook to reach a high beam. What applies?
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Correct answer: C — People may only ride in equipment made for it
Why?LOLER sets specific requirements for lifting people, so they must only be lifted in equipment designed for that purpose. A harness or the driver's agreement does not make a hook safe to ride.Source
Before removing ceiling panels in an older building, what information should you check?
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Correct answer: B — The asbestos survey and relevant hazard information
Why?Refurbishment work must account for concealed hazards such as asbestos before materials are disturbed. A decorating schedule does not identify asbestos risk.Source
A wall marked for demolition may support an adjoining structure. What must be done first?
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Correct answer: A — Assess stability and provide any necessary support
Why?Structural stability must be assessed and support arranged before demolition work creates danger. Smaller tools do not remove the risk of structural collapse.Source
You must drill into an existing wall during refurbishment. Which hidden danger needs checking?
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Correct answer: A — Concealed electrical and other service runs
Why?Existing walls may conceal live electrical cables or other services that drilling could strike. Visible sockets alone do not reveal every concealed service route.Source
Traffic cones and signs have been displaced beside your roadworks. What should you do?
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Correct answer: C — Report it and have the traffic layout made safe
Why?Temporary traffic controls must be kept effective as conditions change. High-visibility clothing does not compensate for a disrupted traffic layout.Source
An excavator driver appears to be looking forward. What should you assume about their view behind?
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Correct answer: A — They may have significant blind spots
Why?Construction plant can have blind spots even with mirrors and cameras. High-visibility clothing does not guarantee that a driver can see you.Source
A working excavator needs space to slew its boom. What should other workers do?
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Correct answer: A — Stay outside the designated operating exclusion zone
Why?An exclusion zone keeps people clear of moving plant and its working envelope. Being near the tracks does not avoid the danger of the slewing boom.Source
A heavy machine is to be positioned near soft ground. What should be assessed?
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Correct answer: B — Ground bearing strength and machine stability
Why?Ground conditions must support the machine and its loads safely. An experienced driver cannot establish ground bearing strength by sight alone.Source
Your site requires a hot-work permit for welding. What must happen before you start?
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Correct answer: D — Obtain authorisation and follow the permit controls
Why?Required hot-work permits must be authorised and their conditions followed before starting. An extinguisher does not replace the permit controls.Source
A conveyor needs servicing where it could restart unexpectedly. What protects the workers?
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Correct answer: B — Secure isolation with lock-off arrangements
Why?Stored and supplied energy must be isolated and secured to prevent unexpected start-up. A normal stop button does not prevent another person restarting the machine.Source
An electrical circuit has been switched off for maintenance. Who should confirm it is dead before contact?
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Correct answer: A — A competent person using a suitable test method
Why?A competent person must verify electrical isolation using suitable methods before work on conductors. Reading an isolator label alone does not prove a circuit is dead.Source
Before a building is demolished, what should happen to its gas, electricity and water supplies?
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Correct answer: B — They are disconnected or made safe beforehand
Why?Services must be isolated or disconnected before demolition so workers do not strike live gas or electricity. Gas and water can be as dangerous as electricity.Source
Asbestos lagging has been found in a building due for demolition. When should it normally be removed?
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Correct answer: C — Before the main demolition work begins on site
Why?The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 require asbestos to be removed, so far as reasonably practicable, before major demolition work starts. Knocking it down with the building spreads fibres.Source
A new trench will run close to the footings of an existing wall. What must be considered?
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Correct answer: A — Whether digging could undermine the wall
Why?HSE warns that excavations must not undermine the foundations of nearby buildings or walls. Removing ground near footings can make a structure unstable.Source
While digging, you damage a pipe and smell gas. What should you do?
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Correct answer: D — Move away, avoid ignition sources and raise the alarm
Why?A gas leak can ignite, so people must move away, ignition sources must be kept clear and the emergency procedure started. Switching on electrical equipment can create a spark.Source
Demolition is taking place beside a public footpath. How should the public be kept out of the site?
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Correct answer: C — A secure perimeter, such as hoarding or fencing
Why?CDM 2015 requires steps to prevent unauthorised access to the site, and the 1974 Act protects the public. Signs or tape alone do not keep people out.Source
Why are long-reach machines often used to demolish tall structures?
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Correct answer: B — They keep workers away from falling material and weak floors
Why?Using machines at a distance keeps people out of the most dangerous areas during demolition. An exclusion zone, a plan and asbestos checks are still needed.Source
You need to speak to an excavator driver while the machine is working. What should you do?
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Correct answer: B — Catch the driver's eye and wait for a signal
Why?Approaching working plant without the driver's agreement puts you in blind spots and the machine's path. Wait until the driver has seen you and made the machine safe.Source
Your team wants to use an excavator to lift and place drainage pipes on a chain. What must be confirmed first?
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Correct answer: C — It is suitable and set up for lifting under LOLER
Why?An excavator used for lifting is lifting equipment under LOLER and must be suitable, marked and set up for the lift, with the lift properly planned. Digging experience alone is not enough.Source
A dumper's mirrors are caked in mud at the start of a shift. What should happen?
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Correct answer: D — Clean them and check the view before driving
Why?Visibility aids such as mirrors only work if kept clean and checked before use. Relying on others to shout does not make up for poor visibility.Source
A dumper needs refuelling on site. What should happen first?
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Correct answer: C — Switch the engine off and keep ignition sources away
Why?Fuel vapour can ignite, so engines should be off and sparks, flames and smoking kept away. Standing upwind does not remove the ignition risk.Source
Your permit to work expires before the task is finished. What should you do?
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Correct answer: A — Stop, make the work safe and get the permit renewed
Why?A permit is only valid for the time it states; work beyond that has no authorisation and conditions may have changed. A colleague cannot re-authorise it on your behalf.Source
Under a hot-work permit, you are asked to also weld in a second room not listed on it. What applies?
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Correct answer: B — That work needs its own permit or an amended one
Why?A permit only covers the location and task it describes, because the hazards elsewhere have not been checked. Verbal approval does not replace the permit system.Source
Work under an electrical isolation permit is finished. What should happen before the power is restored?
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Correct answer: D — The permit is formally handed back and cancelled
Why?Handing back and cancelling the permit confirms everyone is clear before the system is re-energised. Switching on without this risks someone still working on the circuit.Source
Correct answer: A — An authorised person who understands the hazards
Why?Permits are issued by an authorised, competent person who checks the precautions are in place. The person doing the job should not authorise their own work.Source
Three trades will work on the same isolated plant. How should the isolation be secured?
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Correct answer: B — Each person fits their own padlock to a multi-lock hasp
Why?Personal padlocks on a multi-lock hasp mean the plant cannot be re-energised until every person has removed their lock. A shared key lets one person restore power while others are still working.Source
You have locked off an isolator with your personal padlock. Where should the key be while you work?
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Correct answer: C — With you, until your work is finished
Why?Keeping your own key ensures nobody else can remove the lock and restore power while you are exposed. A key left nearby defeats the purpose of the lock.Source
When may work be done on or near live electrical conductors?
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Correct answer: D — Only if working dead is unreasonable, with precautions
Why?Regulation 14 of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 allows live work only where it is unreasonable for the conductor to be dead and suitable precautions prevent injury. 230 V can kill.Source
Who should set out and remove temporary traffic management on a road where you work?
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Correct answer: B — Trained people following the agreed plan
Why?Traffic management protects workers and road users, so it must be put in place by trained people in line with the plan. Wearing hi-vis does not make someone competent to do it.Source
