CITB Specialists Respiratory Hazards & COSHH

Question 1

What does COSHH stand for?

Accepted Answer

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002

Answer

Construction Occupational Safety and Health Handbook

Answer

Control of Site Hazards and Health Regulations

Answer

Chemical and Operational Safety and Health Handbook

Question 2

What is the first step in a COSHH assessment?

Accepted Answer

Identify all substances used or generated that are hazardous to health

Answer

Immediately eliminate all hazardous substances from site

Answer

Provide PPE before any assessment is undertaken

Answer

Contact the HSE for guidance

Question 3

What is respirable crystalline silica (RCS) and why is it hazardous?

Accepted Answer

Fine silica dust particles small enough to reach the lungs, causing silicosis, lung cancer, and COPD

Answer

A crystalline form of silica used as a cutting abrasive only

Answer

A hazardous liquid chemical in concrete admixtures

Answer

A gas released during concrete curing

Question 4

What RPE (respiratory protective equipment) is required for high-silica dust exposure tasks?

Accepted Answer

FFP3 half-mask or a powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) as a minimum

Answer

A paper dust mask (FFP1) is adequate for silica

Answer

A standard surgical mask provides sufficient protection

Answer

Only forced extraction is required — no RPE is needed

Question 5

What is the hierarchy of control measures in a COSHH assessment?

Accepted Answer

Eliminate, substitute, enclose, extract (LEV), general ventilation, then RPE as a last resort

Answer

PPE first as it is the most reliable control

Answer

Signage then PPE

Answer

COSHH only requires RPE and safe storage

Question 6

What information does a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provide for a COSHH assessment?

Accepted Answer

Hazard identification, composition, exposure limits, control measures, PPE requirements, first aid, storage, and disposal

Answer

Only the emergency telephone number

Answer

Only the product name and supplier details

Answer

Only the storage temperature requirements