ACI Environmental & Worker Safety 3

Question 1

Which ANSI standard governs the design and performance requirements for safety footwear used on concrete construction sites?

Accepted Answer

ANSI Z41 / ASTM F2413

Answer

ASTM F2413 (previously ANSI Z41) sets the performance requirements for protective footwear including toe impact and compression resistance.

Question 2

What environmental hazard is most commonly created when concrete is poured near a waterway without proper controls?

Accepted Answer

pH increase in water causing harm to aquatic life

Answer

Cement raises the pH of waterways to toxic levels (11+), which is lethal to fish and other aquatic organisms and violates Clean Water Act provisions.

Question 3

How often must a concrete finisher's N95 respirator be replaced at a minimum during wet concrete grinding operations?

Accepted Answer

When it becomes difficult to breathe through or is damaged/soiled

Answer

Respirators should be replaced when breathing resistance increases, structural integrity is compromised, or the facepiece is soiled — per manufacturer guidance and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134.

Question 4

A spilled Portland cement bag is wetting due to rain on a job site. The primary environmental concern is:

Accepted Answer

Runoff reaching storm drains and raising pH of receiving waters

Answer

Wet cement generates highly alkaline leachate that can flow into storm drains and harm aquatic ecosystems, violating stormwater permit conditions.

Question 5

Which type of knee pad is most appropriate for prolonged concrete finishing work to prevent bursitis?

Accepted Answer

Hard-cap knee pads with cushioned foam or gel interior

Answer

Hard-cap knee pads with cushioned interiors distribute pressure and protect against the hardness of concrete slabs, reducing the risk of prepatellar bursitis.

(ACI) American Concrete Institute Concrete Finisher Practice Test

(ACI) American Concrete Institute Concrete Finisher Practice Test

ACI Environmental & Worker Safety 3