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Working at Height Safety Flashcards

6 cards from real CITB practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 6 Working at Height Safety flashcards as text

  1. Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, what should be your first consideration before carrying out any task at height?

    Answer: Avoid working at height altogether if possible

    The Work at Height Regulations 2005 follow a hierarchy: first avoid work at height where possible, then prevent falls using the right equipment, and finally minimise the consequences of a fall. Avoidance is always the first priority.

  2. What is the correct angle for placing a leaning ladder against a wall?

    Answer: 1 unit out for every 4 units up

    The safe angle for a leaning ladder is a ratio of 1:4 — for every 4 metres of height, the base should be 1 metre away from the wall. This is approximately 75 degrees and provides optimal stability.

  3. When must edge protection be provided on a scaffold platform?

    Answer: When there is a risk of a person or materials falling from the edge

    Edge protection (guard rails, toe boards, and intermediate rails) must be provided wherever there is a risk of persons or materials falling from a scaffold platform, regardless of height. This is a legal requirement under the Work at Height Regulations.

  4. What should you check BEFORE using a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP)?

    Answer: That the ground is firm, level, and the outriggers are fully extended

    Before using a MEWP, you must ensure the ground conditions are suitable (firm and level) and that all outriggers or stabilisers are fully deployed as per the manufacturer's instructions. Unstable ground is a leading cause of MEWP overturning.

  5. A tower scaffold should not be used in winds exceeding what speed?

    Answer: 23 mph

    Tower scaffolds should not be used when wind speeds reach 23 mph (Force 5 on the Beaufort scale) or above, as they can become unstable. Workers should monitor weather conditions and cease work at height when winds are too strong.

  6. What is the primary purpose of a toe board on a scaffold?

    Answer: To prevent materials and tools from falling off the edge

    Toe boards (minimum 150mm high) are fitted at the edge of scaffold platforms primarily to prevent tools, materials, and debris from being kicked or rolling off the edge and striking people below.