CPCS Pre-Use Checks 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does checking the 'FOPS' on a plant machine refer to?
- Falling Object Protective Structure — protection from overhead falling objects (Correct answer)
- Fuel Oil Pressure System — hydraulic pressure gauge
- Forward Operating Position Sensor — proximity alarm
- Final Operations Pre-Start — the last check before ignition
Correct answer: Falling Object Protective Structure — protection from overhead falling objects
FOPS stands for Falling Object Protective Structure. It is a cab protection system that shields the operator from objects falling from above, and must be intact and undamaged before operation.
Question 2: What does ROPS stand for and why is it checked pre-use?
- Roll-Over Protective Structure — protects the operator if the machine overturns (Correct answer)
- Remote Operated Plant System — wireless control system
- Rear Object Proximity Sensor — reversing camera system
- Routine Operational Performance Standard — efficiency benchmark
Correct answer: Roll-Over Protective Structure — protects the operator if the machine overturns
ROPS is a Roll-Over Protective Structure that protects the operator in the event of a machine overturn. It must be present, undamaged, and correctly fitted before operation.
Question 3: During a pre-use check you notice a cracked windscreen obscuring your view. What action do you take?
- Take the plant out of service — the cracked screen is a safety defect (Correct answer)
- Drive carefully with extra caution
- Use mirrors only and avoid looking through the crack
- Continue working if the crack is not in the direct line of vision
Correct answer: Take the plant out of service — the cracked screen is a safety defect
A cracked windscreen that obscures vision is a safety defect. Reduced visibility during plant operation creates serious risk of collision or striking persons. The plant must be taken out of service.
Question 4: What fluid level is particularly critical to check on hydraulically-operated plant before use?
- Hydraulic oil level (Correct answer)
- Engine coolant only
- Windscreen washer fluid
- Gearbox oil only
Correct answer: Hydraulic oil level
Hydraulic oil is critical because hydraulically-operated plant relies on it for steering, braking, and attachment control. Low hydraulic oil can cause sudden loss of these functions during operation.
Question 5: Why is it important to check tyre pressures or track tension during a pre-use check?
- Incorrect pressure or tension affects stability and steering, increasing accident risk (Correct answer)
- It only affects fuel efficiency and is not a safety issue
- Tyre checks are only required on public roads
- Track tension is set at the factory and does not need checking
Correct answer: Incorrect pressure or tension affects stability and steering, increasing accident risk
Incorrect tyre pressures or track tension affects machine stability, braking, and handling. This can lead to loss of control, tip-overs, or steering failures, all of which create serious risk.
Question 6: Where should pre-use check records be kept?
- On site and available for inspection, typically in a plant inspection register (Correct answer)
- Sent to the hire company daily
- Kept only by the operator in their personal notes
- Submitted to the HSE after each check
Correct answer: On site and available for inspection, typically in a plant inspection register
Pre-use check records must be kept on site and available for inspection by supervisors, safety officers, and enforcement authorities. A plant inspection register is the standard approach.
CPCS Pre-Use Checks 2
What does checking the 'FOPS' on a plant machine refer to?