CPCS Plant Operator Safety & PUWER 2

Question 1

Which regulation specifically requires that guards are fitted to dangerous parts of construction plant?

Accepted Answer

PUWER Regulation 11

Answer

PUWER Regulation 11 requires that dangerous parts of machinery are guarded to prevent contact, with a hierarchy of protective measures.

Question 2

What is the hierarchy of measures for guarding dangerous parts under PUWER?

Accepted Answer

Fixed guard, then interlocked guard, then protection appliances, then information/training

Answer

PUWER sets a strict hierarchy: fixed guarding is preferred, followed by interlocked guards, then protection appliances such as trip devices, and finally information, instruction and training as a last resort.

Question 3

A plant operator notices a guard is missing from the plant they have been asked to operate. What should they do?

Accepted Answer

Report it immediately and refuse to operate the plant until it is repaired

Answer

Missing guards are a PUWER non-compliance and a serious safety hazard. The operator must report immediately and must not operate the plant until the guard is properly replaced.

Question 4

Under PUWER, what must accompany any construction plant that poses specific risks?

Accepted Answer

A written risk assessment addressing those specific risks

Answer

PUWER requires that where specific risks exist, a written risk assessment is produced and control measures are implemented and documented.

Question 5

Which body enforces PUWER on construction sites in Great Britain?

Accepted Answer

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE)

Answer

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is the primary enforcement authority for PUWER and other health and safety legislation on construction sites in Great Britain.

CPCS Theory Practice Test

CPCS Theory Practice Test

CPCS Plant Operator Safety & PUWER 2