CITB Working at Height

Question 1

Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, what is the employer's primary duty?

Accepted Answer

To avoid work at height where possible; where not, to plan, supervise, and carry out work at height safely

Answer

The WAH Regulations 2005 follow the avoid-prevent-mitigate hierarchy: avoid work at height if possible; prevent falls if not; minimise the consequences of a fall where prevention is not fully achievable.

Question 2

How does the Work at Height Regulations 2005 define 'working at height'?

Accepted Answer

Work in any place from which a person could fall and injure themselves, including below ground level

Answer

The Regulations define 'at height' as any place from which a fall could result in injury — there is no minimum height threshold, and it includes excavations and holes at ground level.

Question 3

When should a ladder be used for work at height?

Accepted Answer

Only when the risk assessment shows it is the most suitable equipment for a low-risk, short-duration task

Answer

Ladders should only be used when a risk assessment shows they are the most appropriate equipment — they are not a default choice, particularly for anything other than short-duration, low-risk tasks.

Question 4

Which of the following is a collective protection measure for work at height?

Accepted Answer

Edge protection including guard rails and toe boards

Answer

Collective protection measures protect everyone in the area without requiring individual action — guard rails and toe boards are collective measures that reduce fall risk for all workers automatically.

Question 5

At what angle should a portable ladder be set for safe use?

Accepted Answer

75 degrees (1 out for every 4 up)

Answer

A portable ladder should be set at approximately 75 degrees — the 1-in-4 rule: for every 4 metres of height, place the base 1 metre out from the wall.

(CITB) Construction Industry Training Board Practice Test

(CITB) Construction Industry Training Board Practice Test

CITB Working at Height