CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) Test for Managers and Professionals — Questions and Answers

Question 1: What information should an accident investigation report contain?

Only the details of the injured person and the date
A statement from the injured worker and nothing else
Only what is required for RIDDOR reporting
A factual account of what happened, a timeline, the immediate and root causes, contributing factors, and specific, timed recommendations for preventing recurrence (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A factual account of what happened, a timeline, the immediate and root causes, contributing factors, and specific, timed recommendations for preventing recurrence

A thorough accident investigation report includes: a factual description of events and a timeline, immediate and root causes, contributing factors, lessons learned, and specific recommendations with responsible persons and completion dates. It should be used to drive genuine improvement.

Question 2: A construction site manager notices that several workers appear to be suffering from work-related stress. Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, what is the employer's duty?

Stress is a personal issue and not the employer's responsibility
Only refer workers to their GP
Only address stress if a worker makes a formal complaint
The employer must assess the risk of stress-related ill health and take measures to control it (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The employer must assess the risk of stress-related ill health and take measures to control it

Work-related stress is a recognised health risk. Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, employers must include stress in their risk assessments and take reasonably practicable measures to control it. The HSE's Management Standards identify six key areas: demands, control, support, relationships, role, and change.

Question 3: Under the Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002, if a worker's blood lead level exceeds the statutory suspension level, the employer must:

Refer the worker to an occupational health adviser for advice only, with no immediate action required
Provide enhanced PPE and continue monthly biological monitoring
Suspend the worker from any work liable to expose them to lead until levels fall below the suspension level (Correct answer)
Notify the worker of the result but allow them to continue if they sign a written waiver

Correct answer: Suspend the worker from any work liable to expose them to lead until levels fall below the suspension level

The Control of Lead at Work Regulations impose a legal duty on employers to remove workers from lead exposure once their blood lead concentration exceeds the suspension level, protecting them from further harm.

Question 4: On a construction project, which person should audit the permit to work system to ensure it is working effectively?

The client, on a monthly basis only
Workers who have used the permit system that week
The HSE inspector on their next visit
The site manager or safety manager, on a regular basis, checking that permits are being completed correctly, controls are actually in place, and the system is not becoming a tick-box exercise (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The site manager or safety manager, on a regular basis, checking that permits are being completed correctly, controls are actually in place, and the system is not becoming a tick-box exercise

The site or safety manager should conduct regular audits of the PTW system — checking that permits are correctly completed, that the specified controls are genuinely in place, and that the system has not deteriorated into a paperwork exercise. Auditing demonstrates management commitment and identifies weaknesses.

Question 5: At what height do the Work at Height Regulations 2005 apply?

Only above 2 metres
At any height where a person could fall and be injured (Correct answer)
Only above 1.5 metres
Only above 3 metres

Correct answer: At any height where a person could fall and be injured

The Work at Height Regulations 2005 apply to all work at height where there is a risk of a fall liable to cause personal injury, regardless of the actual height. There is no minimum height threshold. A fall from a kerb could be covered if it could cause injury.

Question 6: Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, what is the duty regarding falling objects?

Steps must be taken to prevent objects falling, and where this is not reasonably practicable, to prevent injury from falling objects (Correct answer)
Falling objects are only a concern above 5 metres
There is no specific duty regarding falling objects
Only hard hats need to be worn

Correct answer: Steps must be taken to prevent objects falling, and where this is not reasonably practicable, to prevent injury from falling objects

Regulation 10 requires that every employer shall take suitable and sufficient steps to prevent, so far as reasonably practicable, any person being struck by a falling object likely to cause personal injury. This includes using toe boards, brick guards, netting, and exclusion zones.

Question 7: Under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 and the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, what welfare facilities must be provided on a construction site?

Only drinking water
Only toilets and drinking water
Whatever the workers request
Toilets, washing facilities, drinking water, changing rooms, and rest facilities (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Toilets, washing facilities, drinking water, changing rooms, and rest facilities

CDM 2015 Schedule 2 requires the provision of sanitary conveniences (toilets), washing facilities (including showers where necessary), drinking water, accommodation for clothing and changing, and rest facilities (including facilities for preparing and eating meals). These must be readily accessible and maintained in a clean condition.

Question 8: Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, who is the 'responsible person' for fire safety on a construction site?

The local fire brigade
The building owner only
The fire marshal appointed by the workers
The employer or any person who has control of the premises to any extent (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The employer or any person who has control of the premises to any extent

Article 3 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 defines the 'responsible person' as the employer (if the workplace is under their control), or any person who has control of the premises. On a construction site, this typically falls to the principal contractor.

Question 9: Which approach to managing subcontractor performance helps a site manager identify early warning signs of deteriorating safety standards?

Regular performance monitoring including: observation of working practices, review of RAMS compliance, incident and near-miss reporting rates, workforce engagement and communication, and comparison with site-wide standards (Correct answer)
Monitoring only through the subcontractor's own self-reporting
Waiting for incidents to occur before assessing performance
Only reviewing subcontractor insurance and accreditation documents

Correct answer: Regular performance monitoring including: observation of working practices, review of RAMS compliance, incident and near-miss reporting rates, workforce engagement and communication, and comparison with site-wide standards

Early warning indicators include: poor RAMS compliance, declining near-miss reporting (potentially indicating a blame culture), worker disengagement, failure to attend briefings, and observable unsafe practices. Proactive monitoring identifies deterioration before a serious incident.

Question 10: Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, when must a risk assessment be reviewed?

Every five years automatically
Only after an accident or near-miss
Once per calendar year regardless of any changes
When there is reason to believe it may no longer be valid, or when a significant change in the matters it relates to has occurred (Correct answer)

Correct answer: When there is reason to believe it may no longer be valid, or when a significant change in the matters it relates to has occurred

A risk assessment must be reviewed when there is reason to believe it is no longer valid (e.g., following an incident) or when a significant change has occurred in the work, environment, or workforce. There is no mandatory fixed review interval.

Question 11: What is the five-step approach to risk assessment recommended by the HSE?

Assess, Eliminate, Reduce, Control, Monitor
Identify hazards; identify who might be harmed and how; evaluate risks and implement controls; record findings; review and update (Correct answer)
Identify, Evaluate, Control, Record, Report
Plan, Do, Check, Act, Review

Correct answer: Identify hazards; identify who might be harmed and how; evaluate risks and implement controls; record findings; review and update

The HSE's five steps are: (1) Identify hazards; (2) Decide who might be harmed and how; (3) Evaluate risks and decide on controls; (4) Record findings and implement; (5) Review the assessment and update if necessary.

Question 12: A construction manager needs to select equipment for a short-duration task at height. According to the Work at Height Regulations 2005, what factors must they consider when selecting the equipment?

Only the cost of the equipment
Whatever equipment is immediately available on site
The working conditions, the nature of the work, the duration, and the risks to safety (Correct answer)
Only the height of the work

Correct answer: The working conditions, the nature of the work, the duration, and the risks to safety

Regulation 7 requires that when selecting work equipment for work at height, account must be taken of the working conditions and risks, the distance and consequences of a potential fall, the duration and frequency of use, ease of access, and any additional risks posed by the equipment itself.

Question 13: Under CDM 2015, the duty to provide and maintain adequate welfare facilities rests with:

The principal contractor (for multi-contractor projects) or the contractor (for single-contractor projects) (Correct answer)
The principal designer as part of the pre-construction plan
The client for the entire project duration
Each individual contractor for their own workers only

Correct answer: The principal contractor (for multi-contractor projects) or the contractor (for single-contractor projects)

The principal contractor (on multi-contractor projects) must ensure that suitable welfare facilities are in place from the start of the construction phase and are maintained throughout. On single-contractor projects, this duty falls on the contractor.

Question 14: What does 'residual risk' mean in the context of a risk assessment?

The financial risk associated with a task
The risk before any controls are applied
The risk identified by HSE inspectors only
The risk that remains after all reasonably practicable controls have been implemented (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The risk that remains after all reasonably practicable controls have been implemented

Residual risk is the level of risk remaining after all reasonably practicable controls have been implemented. If residual risk is still unacceptably high, additional controls must be introduced before work can proceed.

Question 15: Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) are commonly used on construction sites. What is a key management requirement when using a MEWP?

Only the site manager needs to know how to operate the MEWP
MEWPs do not require any inspection once purchased
Any worker can operate a MEWP without training if they have a driving licence
Operators must be trained and competent, and the MEWP must be inspected under LOLER and PUWER (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Operators must be trained and competent, and the MEWP must be inspected under LOLER and PUWER

MEWP operators must be trained and competent (IPAF or equivalent certification is industry standard). MEWPs are subject to LOLER 1998 (thorough examination every 6 months) and PUWER 1998 (maintained in safe condition). A rescue plan must also be in place.

Question 16: What constitutes a 'fragile surface' under the Work at Height Regulations 2005?

A surface that would be liable to fail if a person's weight were applied to it (Correct answer)
Only glass panels
Any surface that is wet or slippery
Only surfaces made of corrugated materials

Correct answer: A surface that would be liable to fail if a person's weight were applied to it

Regulation 2 defines a fragile surface as a surface that would be liable to fail if any reasonably foreseeable loading were applied to it. This includes cement fibre sheets, glass skylights, corroded metal sheeting, and any material that cannot safely support a person's weight.

Question 17: A site manager is planning for the demolition of an existing structure. Which specialist survey is required before demolition work begins?

Only a structural survey
Only a visual inspection by the demolition contractor
Only a services survey
A refurbishment and demolition asbestos survey (plus structural survey, ecological survey if applicable, and services survey) — all of which must be completed and reviewed before the demolition method is finalised (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A refurbishment and demolition asbestos survey (plus structural survey, ecological survey if applicable, and services survey) — all of which must be completed and reviewed before the demolition method is finalised

Before any demolition, a refurbishment and demolition asbestos survey (the most intrusive type) is mandatory. A structural survey assessing demolition sequence stability, a services survey to identify live services, and ecological surveys (if applicable) should also be completed before the method statement is finalised.

Question 18: A manager is planning work near an unprotected roof edge. What is the preferred control measure according to the hierarchy in the Work at Height Regulations 2005?

Install temporary edge protection such as guardrails and toe boards (Correct answer)
Brief workers to stay away from the edge
Place warning signs near the edge
Issue workers with safety harnesses attached to a running line

Correct answer: Install temporary edge protection such as guardrails and toe boards

Collective protection measures such as guardrails and toe boards are preferred over personal protection (harnesses) in the hierarchy. Guardrails protect everyone in the area without relying on individual behaviour, making them more reliable. Harnesses are a lower-tier measure used when collective protection is not reasonably practicable.

Question 19: What is the legal status of a method statement?

Method statements are only required for notifiable projects
A method statement becomes legally binding only when signed by the HSE
Method statements are not a direct statutory requirement but are part of implementing the legal duty to have a safe system of work for significant risks (Correct answer)
A method statement is a legal requirement under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

Correct answer: Method statements are not a direct statutory requirement but are part of implementing the legal duty to have a safe system of work for significant risks

Method statements are not explicitly required by a specific regulation in all cases, but they are the primary means by which employers demonstrate a safe system of work for significant risks. They are therefore an implicit legal requirement when risk assessments identify the need for one.

Question 20: When selecting respiratory protective equipment (RPE) under COSHH, what factor is most critical?

Worker preference for comfort and style to encourage compliance
The purchase cost and local availability of the equipment
The assigned protection factor (APF) relative to the airborne concentration of the hazardous substance (Correct answer)
The colour coding of the filter cartridge for easy identification

Correct answer: The assigned protection factor (APF) relative to the airborne concentration of the hazardous substance

The RPE must provide an APF sufficient to reduce the wearer's exposure to below the relevant WEL; selecting RPE without verifying the APF may leave workers inadequately protected.

Question 21: A scaffold has been erected on a construction site. Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, who must inspect it before it is used?

Any available site worker
A competent person (Correct answer)
The client's representative
The scaffold supplier only

Correct answer: A competent person

Regulation 12 requires that scaffolding is inspected by a competent person before being put into use, after any event likely to have affected its stability, and at regular intervals not exceeding 7 days. The competent person must have adequate training, knowledge and experience.

Question 22: Construction workers are exposed to silica dust from cutting concrete blocks. Under COSHH, what is the Workplace Exposure Limit (WEL) for respirable crystalline silica?

1.0 mg/m³ (8-hour TWA)
0.05 mg/m³ (8-hour TWA)
0.1 mg/m³ (8-hour TWA) (Correct answer)
0.5 mg/m³ (8-hour TWA)

Correct answer: 0.1 mg/m³ (8-hour TWA)

The current UK Workplace Exposure Limit for respirable crystalline silica is 0.1 mg/m³ as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). Silicosis is an irreversible lung disease caused by inhaling silica dust, making adequate control essential. Water suppression and on-tool extraction are the primary controls.

Question 23: What is the maximum period that hazardous waste can be stored on a construction site before it must be removed, without requiring an environmental permit?

6 months if producing less than 500 kg, or 12 months if registered as an exempt site (Correct answer)
3 months
No time limit
30 days

Correct answer: 6 months if producing less than 500 kg, or 12 months if registered as an exempt site

Under the Environmental Permitting Regulations, construction sites can temporarily store hazardous waste under a waste exemption. The storage duration depends on the quantities: sites producing less than 500 kg of hazardous waste can store it for up to 6 months, while registered exempt sites may store for up to 12 months, subject to conditions.

Question 24: A 'cold work permit' is used when:

No permit is needed because there is no heat involved
Work involves no ignition sources, usually near flammable materials, and confirms that the area is safe to work in without introducing hot work hazards (Correct answer)
The worker is using refrigerated equipment
Work is being carried out in cold weather only

Correct answer: Work involves no ignition sources, usually near flammable materials, and confirms that the area is safe to work in without introducing hot work hazards

A cold work permit is used for work near flammable or explosive atmospheres where it is important to confirm that no ignition sources will be introduced and that the atmosphere is safe. It is the counterpart to the hot work permit.

Question 25: Competent persons who carry out risk assessments must have:

An external health and safety qualification in all cases
Written authorisation from the HSE
A minimum of 10 years' construction experience
Sufficient knowledge, training, experience, and understanding of the work to carry out an assessment that is suitable and sufficient (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Sufficient knowledge, training, experience, and understanding of the work to carry out an assessment that is suitable and sufficient

Competence to carry out risk assessments requires knowledge of the work activity and the hazards it involves, understanding of risk assessment methodology, and the experience to make sound judgements. There is no mandatory specific qualification, but relevant training is important.

Question 26: Why must a permit to work be clearly displayed at the work location?

So that all workers in the area, including those not directly involved in the permitted work, can see that a permit is in force, what the conditions are, and who has been authorised — preventing unauthorised interference (Correct answer)
So the HSE inspector can view it on an unannounced visit
To meet a specific planning condition requirement
So that it can be quickly located for the project's audit file

Correct answer: So that all workers in the area, including those not directly involved in the permitted work, can see that a permit is in force, what the conditions are, and who has been authorised — preventing unauthorised interference

Displaying the permit at the work location informs all workers in the area that a permit is in force. This prevents unauthorised persons from carrying out work in the area, alerts others to the specific hazards and controls, and confirms the permitted workers and scope.

Question 27: How often must a scaffold on a construction site be inspected under the Work at Height Regulations 2005?

Every 14 days
At intervals not exceeding 7 days (Correct answer)
Monthly
Only after adverse weather

Correct answer: At intervals not exceeding 7 days

Regulation 12(3) requires scaffolds to be inspected at intervals not exceeding 7 days. Additional inspections are required after any event likely to have affected stability or strength, such as adverse weather or accidental damage.

Question 28: What is the difference between a 'long-duration permit' and a 'short-duration permit' in a PTW system?

Long-duration permits do not require atmospheric testing
Long-duration permits allow the work to be carried out for multiple months; short-duration permits are for less than one day
Some PTW systems use time-limited short-duration permits (e.g., shift-length) for work that must be re-authorised at each shift, and longer-duration permits for work that continues over multiple shifts with daily re-verification of conditions (Correct answer)
No distinction exists — all permits have the same duration

Correct answer: Some PTW systems use time-limited short-duration permits (e.g., shift-length) for work that must be re-authorised at each shift, and longer-duration permits for work that continues over multiple shifts with daily re-verification of conditions

Many PTW systems distinguish between short-duration permits (valid for a shift, typically up to 8–12 hours) and longer permits for extended work. Longer-duration permits require re-verification of conditions at regular intervals (typically each shift) to ensure precautions remain in place.

Question 29: A permit for confined space entry in an excavation must confirm what atmospheric conditions?

Any oxygen level above 10% is acceptable
Oxygen level is between 19.5% and 23.5%, carbon monoxide is below 20 ppm, hydrogen sulphide is below 5 ppm, and flammable gas levels are below 10% of the lower explosive limit (Correct answer)
Only that oxygen is present in the space
No atmospheric testing is required for open excavations

Correct answer: Oxygen level is between 19.5% and 23.5%, carbon monoxide is below 20 ppm, hydrogen sulphide is below 5 ppm, and flammable gas levels are below 10% of the lower explosive limit

Safe atmospheric conditions for confined space entry require: oxygen 19.5–23.5% (below this is deficient, above 23.5% is enriched and a fire risk), CO below 20 ppm, H2S below 5 ppm, and flammable gas below 10% LEL. Continuous monitoring during entry is required.

Question 30: What must happen to all energy sources before a permit to work is issued for work on plant?

Energy sources can be controlled by a supervisor standing by the switch
Only the main electrical supply needs to be isolated
All energy sources must be isolated, de-energised, and locked out (LOTO) in accordance with the isolation procedure, and the isolation confirmed by the authorising person before the permit is signed (Correct answer)
Energy sources must be reduced to a lower voltage

Correct answer: All energy sources must be isolated, de-energised, and locked out (LOTO) in accordance with the isolation procedure, and the isolation confirmed by the authorising person before the permit is signed

LOTO (lock out, tag out) requires all energy sources — electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, thermal, gravitational — to be isolated, de-energised, and locked. The authorising person must verify all isolations are in place before signing the permit.

Question 31: Silica dust generated from cutting concrete, stone, or brick on construction sites is classified as:

A nuisance dust with no significant long-term health effects
A hazardous substance capable of causing silicosis, lung cancer, and COPD (Correct answer)
A mild respiratory irritant requiring standard dust masks only
A low-hazard substance controlled adequately by good housekeeping

Correct answer: A hazardous substance capable of causing silicosis, lung cancer, and COPD

Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) is a Group 1 human carcinogen that can cause silicosis, lung cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; it requires robust controls under COSHH.

Question 32: Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, when should edge protection be provided on a flat roof being used as a workplace?

Only if the roof is more than 3 metres high
Only if workers will be on the roof for more than 30 minutes
Wherever there is a risk of a person falling from the edge or through a fragile surface (Correct answer)
Only if specifically requested by the workers

Correct answer: Wherever there is a risk of a person falling from the edge or through a fragile surface

Edge protection must be provided wherever there is a risk of a person falling from an edge or through a fragile surface. This applies regardless of height or duration of work. The duty is to prevent falls, and edge protection (guardrails, toe boards, etc.) is a key collective protection measure.

Question 33: What is the maximum fine for polluting a controlled water in England under the Environmental Permitting Regulations 2016?

£50,000
£10,000
£5,000
Unlimited — offences can result in unlimited fines and/or imprisonment (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Unlimited — offences can result in unlimited fines and/or imprisonment

Offences under the Environmental Permitting Regulations 2016 and the Water Resources Act 1991 (for water pollution) carry unlimited fines and up to 12 months' imprisonment on summary conviction, or unlimited fines and up to 5 years' imprisonment on indictment.

Question 34: A site manager discovers that permit to work documentation has been backdated by a supervisor to show that a permit was in place before a task started, when it was not. This is:

Acceptable if the work was carried out safely
Acceptable if the work was low-risk
A serious H&S management failure and may constitute falsification of records — the incident should be investigated and the supervisor disciplined; legal prosecution may follow if an incident occurred (Correct answer)
Only a problem if the HSE discovers it

Correct answer: A serious H&S management failure and may constitute falsification of records — the incident should be investigated and the supervisor disciplined; legal prosecution may follow if an incident occurred

Falsifying safety records (including backdating PTWs) is a serious disciplinary and potentially criminal matter. It may constitute perverting health and safety management, and if discovered following an incident could result in prosecution. It must be investigated and dealt with firmly.

Question 35: Under COSHH Regulations 2002, what is the first step a manager must take when dealing with hazardous substances on site?

Issue PPE to all workers immediately
Train all workers in emergency first aid
Carry out a suitable and sufficient assessment of the risks (Correct answer)
Notify the HSE in writing

Correct answer: Carry out a suitable and sufficient assessment of the risks

COSHH Regulations require a suitable and sufficient risk assessment before any work with hazardous substances begins, as control measures cannot be properly selected without first understanding the risks.

Question 36: What is the purpose of a 'risk register' on a construction project?

A record of all risk assessments completed to date
A register of all workers who have been involved in incidents
A list of restrictions imposed by the HSE
A document listing all identified risks, their assessment, control measures, and the responsible person — updated throughout the project (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A document listing all identified risks, their assessment, control measures, and the responsible person — updated throughout the project

A risk register is a project management tool listing all identified risks, their likelihood and severity, current controls, residual risk level, and the person responsible for managing each risk. It is a live document updated as the project progresses.

Question 37: What does the 'iceberg model' in accident investigation represent?

The increasing cost of accidents at higher severity levels
The level of management awareness of site safety
The physical shape of a construction site hazard
The concept that for every serious accident there are many more minor injuries and near-misses — the serious incident is the visible tip, below the surface are multiple warning signs that were missed (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The concept that for every serious accident there are many more minor injuries and near-misses — the serious incident is the visible tip, below the surface are multiple warning signs that were missed

Heinrich's Triangle (or the iceberg model) illustrates that every serious accident is preceded by many minor injuries and near-misses. Investigating and addressing the near-misses and minor incidents prevents the serious accidents — they are warning signs of a failing safety system.

Question 38: What is the purpose of biological monitoring under COSHH?

To measure the amount of a hazardous substance or its metabolites in workers' bodies (Correct answer)
To assess hygiene standards for canteen and welfare facilities
To count airborne microorganisms in the workplace atmosphere
To test workers' general physical fitness before commencing exposure work

Correct answer: To measure the amount of a hazardous substance or its metabolites in workers' bodies

Biological monitoring measures substances or their breakdown products in biological samples such as blood or urine, indicating the actual amount that has been absorbed into the body regardless of the route of entry.

Question 39: Under CDM 2015, what does 'suitable arrangements' for managing a project mean for a client?

Delegating all health and safety responsibility to the principal contractor
Appointing the cheapest available contractor
Signing a health and safety declaration before work begins
Ensuring duty holders are appointed, are competent, have the necessary information, and that sufficient time and resources are allocated to complete work safely (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Ensuring duty holders are appointed, are competent, have the necessary information, and that sufficient time and resources are allocated to complete work safely

Suitable arrangements mean the client has: appointed competent duty holders with the necessary information, allocated sufficient time and resources, ensured management arrangements are maintained, and made arrangements to ensure welfare is provided.

Question 40: How does a permit to work differ from a risk assessment?

A PTW is required by law; a risk assessment is optional
They are the same document described by different names
A risk assessment identifies hazards and controls; a PTW provides formal authorisation and verification that specific controls are in place before a specific instance of high-risk work begins (Correct answer)
A risk assessment is completed after the work; a PTW before

Correct answer: A risk assessment identifies hazards and controls; a PTW provides formal authorisation and verification that specific controls are in place before a specific instance of high-risk work begins

The risk assessment identifies the hazards and determines the required controls. The PTW verifies that those specific controls have been implemented in this specific instance, formally authorises the work to start, and manages its duration and closure.

Question 41: What is a 'sign-on, sign-off' system in relation to permits to work?

A system for recording accident reports
A method for tracking deliveries to site
A time-keeping system for payroll
A system where each worker entering the permit-controlled area signs on at the start of the permit and signs off at completion, confirming they were present and have left the area safely (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A system where each worker entering the permit-controlled area signs on at the start of the permit and signs off at completion, confirming they were present and have left the area safely

A sign-on, sign-off system ensures that every person who enters a permit-controlled area is accounted for at all times. At permit close-out, checking that all workers have signed off confirms no one is left in a confined space, hazardous area, or isolated zone.

Question 42: Under CDM 2015, which project triggers the requirement for a construction phase plan?

Only notifiable projects
Only projects with more than 20 workers on site
All construction projects regardless of size (Correct answer)
Only projects lasting more than 500 person-days

Correct answer: All construction projects regardless of size

CDM 2015 Regulation 12 requires a construction phase plan for every construction project, regardless of size or duration. This was a key change from CDM 2007 which only required it for notifiable projects.

Question 43: A risk assessment for a demolition project must include assessment of which specific hazard?

Structural instability — the risk that the structure or parts of it may collapse unexpectedly during demolition (Correct answer)
The cost of waste disposal
The possibility of planning objections
Weather delays to the programme

Correct answer: Structural instability — the risk that the structure or parts of it may collapse unexpectedly during demolition

Structural instability during demolition is one of the highest-risk hazards. Removing structural elements can cause unexpected progressive collapse. A pre-demolition structural survey must inform the risk assessment and method statement for the demolition sequence.

Question 44: A permit to work system is most effective when:

Permits are completed as a formality and filed without review
The system is robustly managed, the authorising persons are genuinely competent, workers understand the importance of compliance, and the system is regularly audited (Correct answer)
Only senior managers are involved in the process
Permits are issued quickly to avoid delays to the programme

Correct answer: The system is robustly managed, the authorising persons are genuinely competent, workers understand the importance of compliance, and the system is regularly audited

A PTW system only adds value if it is genuinely managed — not treated as a paperwork exercise. Competent authorisers, trained workers who understand the importance of compliance, regular auditing of the system, and management commitment are all essential for effectiveness.

Question 45: Under CDM 2015, which duty holder has overall responsibility for ensuring the project is set up to manage health and safety risks?

The principal designer
The client (Correct answer)
The principal contractor
The project architect

Correct answer: The client

The client sits at the top of the CDM duty-holder hierarchy and has overall responsibility for ensuring the project is organised so health and safety is managed throughout. All other duty-holder appointments flow from the client's decisions.

Question 46: A ladder is being used for construction work. Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, in what circumstances may a ladder be used as a workplace?

Whenever the worker prefers to use one
Only if it is an industrial-grade ladder
Only when a risk assessment shows it is justified because of the low risk and short duration of the task (Correct answer)
Only for access, never as a workplace

Correct answer: Only when a risk assessment shows it is justified because of the low risk and short duration of the task

Schedule 6 of the Work at Height Regulations 2005 permits ladders as a workplace only where a risk assessment has shown that the use of more suitable equipment is not justified because of the low risk and short duration of the task, or due to features of the site that cannot be altered.

Question 47: A permit to work must be signed by:

The HSE inspector before work commences
Any available site worker
The authorising person (who confirms precautions are in place) and the person in charge of the work (who accepts responsibility for following them) (Correct answer)
The principal contractor's financial director

Correct answer: The authorising person (who confirms precautions are in place) and the person in charge of the work (who accepts responsibility for following them)

A PTW must be signed by a competent authorising person (who has checked that all required precautions are in place) and the worker or supervisor in charge of carrying out the work (who accepts responsibility for complying with the permit conditions).

Question 48: A site manager wants to reduce the number of manual handling injuries on site. Which proactive approach would be most effective?

Increasing the number of workers to share the load
Reviewing the procurement and delivery schedule to ensure materials are delivered closer to the point of use, reducing carrying distances, combined with mechanical handling aids and toolbox talks on safe technique (Correct answer)
Reducing working hours to limit cumulative exposure
Issuing back-support belts to all workers

Correct answer: Reviewing the procurement and delivery schedule to ensure materials are delivered closer to the point of use, reducing carrying distances, combined with mechanical handling aids and toolbox talks on safe technique

A systemic approach — redesigning logistics so materials arrive closer to where they are needed, combined with mechanical aids (pallet trucks, hoists), reduces the manual handling hazard at source. Toolbox talks on technique support workers but alone are insufficient.

Question 49: A project requires working in hot weather conditions for an extended period. What health risk must the site manager address?

Heat stress (hyperthermia) — which can cause heat exhaustion and heatstroke and must be managed through: shade and rest provision, adequate cool water, adjusting working hours to avoid peak heat, and monitoring workers for symptoms (Correct answer)
Workers must acclimatise themselves without management intervention
No additional measures are required for hot weather
Only sunburn — which is managed by sunscreen provision

Correct answer: Heat stress (hyperthermia) — which can cause heat exhaustion and heatstroke and must be managed through: shade and rest provision, adequate cool water, adjusting working hours to avoid peak heat, and monitoring workers for symptoms

Heat stress is a serious health risk in hot weather. Site managers must: provide shade and rest areas, ensure access to cool drinking water, consider rescheduling high-intensity work away from peak heat, implement a buddy system to watch for symptoms (confusion, loss of coordination), and have a response plan for heat illness.

Question 50: The permit to work system for electrical isolation must include locking and tagging (LOTO). What is the purpose of the lock?

To physically prevent the isolated switch or circuit from being re-energised — only the worker holding the key can re-energise the circuit, confirming they are clear of the hazard (Correct answer)
To prevent unauthorised access to the control room
To satisfy the requirements of the Electrical Safety Order 2020
To secure the electrical panel against theft

Correct answer: To physically prevent the isolated switch or circuit from being re-energised — only the worker holding the key can re-energise the circuit, confirming they are clear of the hazard

Lockout physically prevents the switch from being moved to the 'on' position. Each worker on the task applies their own padlock — the circuit cannot be re-energised until all padlocks are removed, confirming all workers are clear. The tag provides additional identification and warning.

CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) Test for Managers and Professionals

The CITB HS&E Test for Managers and Professionals assesses knowledge of health, safety, and environmental responsibilities required for managerial and supervisory roles in the UK construction industry. It is a prerequisite for obtaining a CSCS card at the manager or professional level.

Questions

23 min

Time Limit

90%

To Pass

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These practice questions were written with AI tools. They are not real exam questions. Exam facts are checked against the official sources listed below. Not reviewed by a subject-matter expert. Editorial policy

Sources & references

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citb.co.uk — Retake policy, score release, exam format, passing score, time limit, test delivery, eligibility, fees · verified Oct 2026