CPCS Environmental Considerations

Question 1

What is the primary environmental risk associated with construction plant in relation to fluids?

Accepted Answer

Hydraulic oil, fuel, and coolant leaks contaminating soil and watercourses

Answer

Noise from plant engines affecting wildlife

Answer

Exhaust emissions only

Answer

Dust generated by earth moving only

Question 2

What should be immediately available on site to deal with small plant fluid spills?

Accepted Answer

Spill kits containing absorbent materials, suitable for the type of fluid involved

Answer

A hosepipe to dilute and wash away the spill

Answer

Sand bags to redirect the flow

Answer

Only a first aid kit — spill kits are not required on construction sites

Question 3

What legislation primarily governs the environmental impact of construction activities including plant operations in the UK?

Accepted Answer

The Environment Act 1995 and the Environmental Protection Act 1990, enforced by the Environment Agency

Answer

Only the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

Answer

The Construction Design and Management Regulations alone

Answer

Environmental compliance is voluntary for construction sites

Question 4

What must be done if a significant fuel spill from plant reaches a drain or watercourse?

Accepted Answer

Stop the spill at source if safe, contain it, and report immediately to the Environment Agency and site supervisor

Answer

Clean up and dispose of waste in a nearby skip

Answer

Dilute the fuel with water to reduce concentration

Answer

Report it only if the watercourse is used for drinking water

Question 5

How should plant waste oil and fluids be disposed of on a construction site?

Accepted Answer

Collected in suitable containers and disposed of by a licensed waste carrier

Answer

Poured into site drains as they are diluted by rainwater

Answer

Buried on site away from buildings

Answer

Left in open containers to evaporate

Question 6

What is a 'site environmental management plan' and how does it relate to plant operations?

Accepted Answer

A plan detailing how environmental risks including plant fluid management will be controlled on site

Answer

A document only required for sites near national parks

Answer

A plan that only covers noise and dust, not plant fluids

Answer

An optional plan that is rarely used in practice