Specialist Trade Hazards Flashcards

What is the primary health hazard when cutting fibre cement board (which may contain chrysotile)?

Answer: Inhalation of respirable fibres which can cause mesothelioma and asbestosis

Some fibre cement products may contain chrysotile (white asbestos) or synthetic mineral fibres. Inhalation of respirable fibres causes mesothelioma and asbestosis. Dry cutting should be avoided; wet cutting or hand scoring is preferred with appropriate RPE.

A plumber needs to work in a loft containing spray foam insulation. What hazard should be assessed?

Answer: Isocyanate residues in uncured spray foam can cause occupational asthma

Isocyanates in spray polyurethane foam can cause occupational asthma if fresh or incompletely cured material is disturbed. Workers should check curing status, ensure adequate ventilation, and use appropriate RPE if disturbing foam insulation.

What regulation requires specialist contractors to assess risks from manual handling?

Answer: Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (as amended)

The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 require employers to avoid hazardous manual handling where possible, assess remaining risks, and reduce them. This applies to all construction trades including specialist contractors.

What hazard arises from cutting or grinding cast iron soil pipes?

Answer: Graphite dust with possible silica content — respiratory protection required

Cutting or grinding cast iron generates dust containing graphite and possibly silica, both of which present respiratory hazards. Wet cutting or dust extraction should be used along with appropriate RPE.

An electrician uses a drill to make cable routes. What daily inspection should be performed on the drill?

Answer: Check cable, plug, casing, and ON/OFF switch for damage before use

All portable power tools should be inspected before use (pre-use check) including checking the cable for damage, the plug for secure connections, the casing for cracks, and controls for correct operation. Formal PAT testing supplements but does not replace pre-use checks.

What is 'isolation' in the context of electrical safety for specialist contractors?

Answer: Disconnecting and locking off the electrical supply so it cannot be accidentally re-energised while work is in progress

Isolation means physically disconnecting the electrical supply from the circuit being worked on and locking it off (lock-out/tag-out) so it cannot be accidentally re-energised by another person while work is in progress, preventing electrocution.