White Card Hazard Identification and Risk

Question 1

What is the correct order of the hierarchy of control, from most to least effective?

Accepted Answer

Elimination, substitution, isolation, engineering, administrative, PPE

Answer

The hierarchy of control runs from most to least effective: elimination, substitution, isolation, engineering controls, administrative controls, then PPE as the last line of defence.

Question 2

What is a 'hazard' on a construction site?

Accepted Answer

Anything with the potential to cause harm

Answer

A hazard is any source or situation with the potential to cause injury, illness or harm to a person.

Question 3

What does 'risk' mean in WHS terms?

Accepted Answer

The likelihood and consequence of harm occurring from a hazard

Answer

Risk is the combination of how likely it is that harm will occur and how serious that harm could be.

Question 4

Why is PPE considered the least effective control measure?

Accepted Answer

It only protects the wearer and relies on correct use, doing nothing to remove the hazard

Answer

PPE only protects the individual wearer and depends on it being worn and used correctly; it does not remove or reduce the hazard itself, so it is the lowest level of control.

Question 5

What is the best example of eliminating a hazard?

Accepted Answer

Removing rubbish and trip hazards from a walkway completely

Answer

Physically removing the hazard, such as clearing debris and trip hazards from a walkway, eliminates the risk entirely and is the most effective control.

White Card Practice Test

White Card Practice Test

White Card Hazard Identification and Risk