CSCS Health, Safety and Environment Test — Questions and Answers

Question 1: What is the correct hierarchy of control measures under COSHH?

Ventilate, enclose, eliminate, substitute, PPE
PPE first, then ventilation, then substitution
Eliminate, substitute, enclose, ventilate, PPE (Correct answer)
PPE, training, signage, substitution, elimination

Correct answer: Eliminate, substitute, enclose, ventilate, PPE

The COSHH hierarchy of control is: eliminate the substance entirely, substitute with a less hazardous alternative, enclose the process, use local exhaust ventilation (LEV), and finally use PPE as a last resort. PPE should never be the first line of defence.

Question 2: What type of cable management practice should be followed to prevent tripping hazards on a construction site?

Cables can be left loose across walkways if they are brightly coloured
Cables should be buried in shallow trenches across footpaths
Cables should be routed overhead or protected by cable covers and kept away from walkways where practicable (Correct answer)
Cable management is only required in office areas, not on construction sites

Correct answer: Cables should be routed overhead or protected by cable covers and kept away from walkways where practicable

Under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 and CDM Regulations 2015, cables must be managed to prevent tripping hazards. Best practice is to route cables overhead on dedicated supports or use proprietary cable covers where they cross walkways. Trailing cables are a leading cause of slips, trips, and falls on construction sites.

Question 3: Under CDM 2015, what is the principal contractor's duty regarding consultation with workers?

No consultation is required
Only consult with trade union officials
The principal contractor must engage with workers and their representatives on matters affecting their health, safety, and welfare (Correct answer)
Only consult with the client

Correct answer: The principal contractor must engage with workers and their representatives on matters affecting their health, safety, and welfare

Under CDM 2015 Regulation 14(d), the principal contractor must consult and engage with workers, including the workforce and their representatives, on matters connected with the project that may affect their health, safety, or welfare. This can be achieved through toolbox talks, safety committees, and worker forums.

Question 4: What is the legal requirement for ladder use under the Work at Height Regulations 2005?

Ladders can be used for any task up to 6 metres
Ladders can only be used for short-duration work where the risk is low (Correct answer)
Ladders are banned on construction sites
Ladders are only for domestic use

Correct answer: Ladders can only be used for short-duration work where the risk is low

Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, ladders should only be used for short-duration, light work where the risk assessment shows it is justified. They should not be used as a primary workplace for prolonged periods.

Question 5: What does the 'fall factor' mean in fall protection?

The speed of the fall
The probability of falling
The weight of the worker
The ratio of the distance fallen to the length of the lanyard (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The ratio of the distance fallen to the length of the lanyard

The fall factor is calculated by dividing the distance fallen by the length of the rope/lanyard. A fall factor of 2 (the maximum) generates the highest forces. Understanding fall factors helps in selecting appropriate anchor points and lanyards.

Question 6: When should a manual handling risk assessment be reviewed?

Only when requested by the HSE
When there is a significant change in the operation, or if the assessment is no longer valid (Correct answer)
Only when an accident occurs
Every 5 years

Correct answer: When there is a significant change in the operation, or if the assessment is no longer valid

Manual handling risk assessments should be reviewed when there is a significant change in the task, load, working conditions, or personnel, when an incident occurs, or when the assessment is no longer considered valid.

Question 7: What should a first aider do if they suspect a worker has heat stroke on site?

Move them to a cool area, remove outer clothing, and cool them with water while calling 999 (Correct answer)
Apply a tourniquet to reduce blood flow
Tell them to continue working in the shade
Give them hot drinks to replace fluids

Correct answer: Move them to a cool area, remove outer clothing, and cool them with water while calling 999

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. The worker should be moved to a cool area, outer clothing removed, and their body cooled using water, wet towels, or fanning. Call 999 immediately. Do not give them anything to drink if they are confused or unconscious.

Question 8: What should be provided in the rest area so workers can prepare their own food and hot drinks?

A gas cooker and full kitchen equipment
A licensed canteen with staff
Only cold vending machines
Means to boil water and facilities to warm food (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Means to boil water and facilities to warm food

CDM 2015 Schedule 2 requires rest facilities to include a means of boiling water and warming food, such as a kettle and microwave.

Question 9: How often must asbestos-containing materials that are being managed in situ (left in place) be re-inspected?

They never need re-inspection once identified
Every 10 years is sufficient
At regular intervals as determined by the management plan — typically at least annually, and more frequently if the ACM is in a location where it may be disturbed (Correct answer)
Only when a complaint is received

Correct answer: At regular intervals as determined by the management plan — typically at least annually, and more frequently if the ACM is in a location where it may be disturbed

ACMs managed in situ must be regularly re-inspected to check their condition has not deteriorated. The frequency depends on the material type, condition, and likelihood of disturbance, but is typically at least annually. High-risk materials in busy areas may require more frequent checks. This is a requirement of the duty to manage under Regulation 4 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

Question 10: What personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when carrying out licensed asbestos removal work?

PPE is not required if the work is done quickly
Normal work clothes with a hi-vis vest
A standard dust mask and overalls
Type 5 disposable coveralls (or decontaminated reusable suits), RPE with an assigned protection factor appropriate to the work (typically powered air-fed), and boot covers — all as specified in the plan of work (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Type 5 disposable coveralls (or decontaminated reusable suits), RPE with an assigned protection factor appropriate to the work (typically powered air-fed), and boot covers — all as specified in the plan of work

Licensed asbestos removal requires comprehensive PPE including Type 5/6 disposable coveralls (or decontaminated reusable suits), respiratory protective equipment (RPE) with an adequate assigned protection factor (typically full-face powered air-purifying or air-fed), and disposable boot covers. All RPE must be face-fit tested. The specific PPE requirements are detailed in the plan of work submitted to the HSE.

Question 11: Who is responsible for maintaining PPE in good working condition?

The PPE manufacturer
The worker only
The employer must ensure PPE is maintained, and the worker must use and store it properly (Correct answer)
The HSE

Correct answer: The employer must ensure PPE is maintained, and the worker must use and store it properly

Under the PPE at Work Regulations, employers must ensure PPE is properly maintained, stored, and replaced when necessary. Workers have a duty to use PPE as instructed, report defects, and store it correctly.

Question 12: What HAVS tier system is used in UK health surveillance to classify the severity of vibration-related symptoms?

The decibel scale
The Stockholm Workshop Scale / HSE tiered assessment (Tiers 1-5) (Correct answer)
The Griffin scale
Tiers A through D

Correct answer: The Stockholm Workshop Scale / HSE tiered assessment (Tiers 1-5)

UK health surveillance for HAVS uses a tiered assessment system. Tier 1 is a screening questionnaire. Tier 2 involves a more detailed assessment by an occupational health professional. Tiers 3-5 involve clinical examination and standardised tests such as thermal aesthesiometry. The Stockholm Workshop Scale classifies symptom severity.

Question 13: How many sections does a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) contain under the REACH Regulation?

20 sections
16 sections (Correct answer)
12 sections
8 sections

Correct answer: 16 sections

Under the UK REACH Regulation, a Safety Data Sheet must contain 16 sections covering identification, hazards, composition, first aid, fire-fighting, accidental release, handling and storage, exposure controls, physical properties, stability, toxicology, ecology, disposal, transport, regulatory information, and other information.

Question 14: What are the penalties for fly-tipping construction waste in England?

Fly-tipping is only illegal on private land
A verbal warning from the council
A £50 fine
Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, fly-tipping is a criminal offence punishable by an unlimited fine and/or up to 5 years' imprisonment — fixed penalty notices of up to £400 can also be issued, and vehicles used for fly-tipping can be seized (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, fly-tipping is a criminal offence punishable by an unlimited fine and/or up to 5 years' imprisonment — fixed penalty notices of up to £400 can also be issued, and vehicles used for fly-tipping can be seized

Fly-tipping is a criminal offence under Section 33 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Penalties include unlimited fines and/or up to 5 years' imprisonment on conviction in the Crown Court. Local authorities can issue fixed penalty notices of up to £400 (or £1,000 in some areas). The Environment Agency and local authorities can seize vehicles used for fly-tipping. Construction companies found responsible face prosecution, reputation damage, and site cleanup costs.

Question 15: What is the legal duty of care regarding waste management that applies to construction site managers?

The duty of care ends once waste leaves the site gate
Under Section 34 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, anyone who produces, imports, carries, keeps, treats, or disposes of controlled waste has a duty of care to ensure it is managed properly, only transferred to authorised persons, and does not escape or cause pollution (Correct answer)
The duty of care only applies to the waste carrier
There is no specific duty of care for construction waste

Correct answer: Under Section 34 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, anyone who produces, imports, carries, keeps, treats, or disposes of controlled waste has a duty of care to ensure it is managed properly, only transferred to authorised persons, and does not escape or cause pollution

Section 34 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 imposes a duty of care on all parties in the waste chain. Construction site managers must ensure waste is properly described, securely stored, transferred only to authorised carriers with valid waste carrier licences, and that the receiving facility holds the appropriate environmental permit. The duty continues even after waste has left the site — fly-tipping by a carrier can result in prosecution of the waste producer.

Question 16: Under CDM 2015, who has overall responsibility for planning and managing health and safety during the construction phase?

The client
The principal contractor (Correct answer)
The CDM coordinator
The designer

Correct answer: The principal contractor

Under CDM 2015, the principal contractor has overall responsibility for planning, managing, monitoring, and coordinating health and safety during the construction phase. The client appoints the principal contractor.

Question 17: Which group of workers must be given special consideration when providing rest facilities on a construction site?

Agency and subcontract workers only
Workers who have been employed for more than five years
Pregnant workers and nursing mothers (Correct answer)
Workers in senior management roles

Correct answer: Pregnant workers and nursing mothers

CDM 2015 and HSE guidance specifically requires suitable rest facilities for pregnant workers and nursing mothers, including appropriate seating and privacy.

Question 18: What is the recommended trip current for an RCD providing additional personal protection on a construction site?

100mA
500mA
30mA (Correct answer)
300mA

Correct answer: 30mA

A 30mA RCD is recommended for additional personal protection as it will disconnect the supply before the current reaches a level that could cause a fatal electric shock. BS 7671 specifies 30mA RCDs for socket-outlet circuits and for circuits supplying mobile equipment outdoors. Higher rated RCDs (100mA, 300mA) provide fire protection but not reliable personal shock protection.

Question 19: A worker on site goes into shock after a serious injury. Which of these is a sign of shock?

Pale, cold, clammy skin (Correct answer)
Flushed, hot skin
Slow pulse rate
High blood pressure

Correct answer: Pale, cold, clammy skin

Signs of shock include pale, cold and clammy skin, rapid weak pulse, rapid shallow breathing, nausea, and confusion. Shock occurs when the circulatory system fails to supply enough oxygenated blood to the body's tissues.

Question 20: What is the emergency services telephone number in the UK?

111
000
112 or 999 (Correct answer)
911

Correct answer: 112 or 999

In the UK, the emergency services can be reached by dialling 999 or 112. Both numbers connect to the same emergency services. 112 is the European standard emergency number and also works on mobile phones even without a SIM card or network coverage.

Question 21: If a construction worker has an object embedded in a wound, what should the first aider do?

Leave the object in place, apply pressure around it, and pad around the object (Correct answer)
Ignore the object and apply a standard dressing over it
Push the object further in to seal the wound
Remove the object immediately to stop the bleeding

Correct answer: Leave the object in place, apply pressure around it, and pad around the object

An embedded object should never be removed as it may be plugging the wound and preventing further bleeding. The first aider should apply pressure around (not on) the object, build up padding around it to stabilise it, and bandage over the padding. The casualty should then be sent to hospital.

Question 22: What type of health surveillance is required for workers exposed to noise above the upper exposure action value?

Annual blood pressure checks
Regular audiometric testing (hearing tests) (Correct answer)
Monthly vision tests
Weekly lung function tests

Correct answer: Regular audiometric testing (hearing tests)

Workers regularly exposed to noise at or above the upper exposure action value of 85 dB(A) must be placed under appropriate health surveillance, which includes regular audiometric testing. This allows early detection of noise-induced hearing loss so that further damage can be prevented.

Question 23: How should toilet facilities on a construction site be maintained throughout the project?

Cleaned only when workers make a formal complaint
Cleaned only at the start and end of each working week
Checked and cleaned once per month by the site manager
Kept clean at all times, well lit, and properly ventilated (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Kept clean at all times, well lit, and properly ventilated

CDM 2015 requires sanitary conveniences to be kept in a clean and orderly condition at all times, with adequate lighting and ventilation.

Question 24: What is suspension trauma and why is it a concern in work at height?

A psychological condition from working alone
A type of repetitive strain injury
A potentially fatal condition caused by prolonged suspension in a harness after a fall (Correct answer)
A fear of heights that prevents work

Correct answer: A potentially fatal condition caused by prolonged suspension in a harness after a fall

Suspension trauma (orthostatic intolerance) occurs when a worker is suspended motionless in a harness after a fall. Blood pools in the legs, and if not rescued quickly (within 15-20 minutes), it can lead to renal failure and death.

Question 25: What does COSHH stand for?

Committee on Substances Hazardous to Health
Control of Safety and Health Hazards
Code of Safety and Health at Home
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Control of Substances Hazardous to Health

COSHH stands for the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002. These regulations require employers to control exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace to prevent ill health.

Question 26: What is the recommended maximum carrying distance before a rest break is needed?

100 metres
500 metres
10 metres
There is no fixed distance — it depends on the load weight and frequency (Correct answer)

Correct answer: There is no fixed distance — it depends on the load weight and frequency

HSE guidance does not set a fixed maximum carrying distance. The need for rest depends on the weight of the load, the frequency of carries, the terrain, and the individual's capability. However, carrying distance should be minimised where possible.

Question 27: Why is it important that PPE fits the individual worker correctly?

For appearance only
It is a legal requirement for aesthetics
To reduce costs
Ill-fitting PPE may not provide adequate protection and may create additional hazards (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Ill-fitting PPE may not provide adequate protection and may create additional hazards

PPE that does not fit correctly will not provide the intended level of protection. For example, a loose-fitting respirator will allow contaminants to bypass the filter, and oversized gloves may catch in machinery.

Question 28: What are the legal requirements for managing surface water runoff from a construction site?

Surface water can be discharged directly into any drain
Surface water management is only required in flood zones
Pumping water directly into the nearest stream is acceptable
Surface water runoff must be managed using sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), silt traps, and settlement lagoons to remove pollutants before discharge — an environmental permit or exemption may be required from the Environment Agency for discharges to controlled waters (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Surface water runoff must be managed using sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), silt traps, and settlement lagoons to remove pollutants before discharge — an environmental permit or exemption may be required from the Environment Agency for discharges to controlled waters

Under the Environmental Permitting Regulations 2016 and planning conditions, construction site surface water runoff must be treated to remove sediment, oils, and other contaminants before discharge. SuDS, silt fences, settlement lagoons, and oil interceptors are commonly used. A permit or registered exemption from the Environment Agency may be required for discharges to controlled waters (rivers, streams, groundwater). Uncontrolled discharges are a criminal offence.

Question 29: What information should a permit to work contain?

Only the date of the work
The task description, location, hazards identified, precautions required, authorised persons, time limits, and sign-off procedures (Correct answer)
Only the name of the contractor
Just a general statement that work can proceed

Correct answer: The task description, location, hazards identified, precautions required, authorised persons, time limits, and sign-off procedures

A permit to work must contain: a clear description of the work and its location, the identified hazards and risks, the specific precautions and controls required, the names of authorised and responsible persons, the duration and time limits, and sign-off procedures for both commencement and completion/cancellation of the work.

Question 30: What role does the asbestos register play in construction site management under CDM Regulations 2015?

The principal contractor must obtain and review the asbestos register before work begins, and ensure all workers and contractors are informed of the location and condition of any ACMs that may be disturbed by the works (Correct answer)
The asbestos register has no relevance to construction sites
Only the architect needs to see the asbestos register
The asbestos register is only for the building owner's records

Correct answer: The principal contractor must obtain and review the asbestos register before work begins, and ensure all workers and contractors are informed of the location and condition of any ACMs that may be disturbed by the works

Under CDM Regulations 2015, the client must provide pre-construction information including the asbestos register to the principal designer and principal contractor. The principal contractor must review this information, include it in the construction phase plan, and ensure all workers and subcontractors are informed of ACM locations before work begins. Failure to communicate this information has caused numerous asbestos exposures on construction sites.

Question 31: How often should RPE (Respiratory Protective Equipment) face-fit testing be carried out?

Face-fit testing is not required
At initial issue and repeated when there are changes to the wearer's face or the RPE model (Correct answer)
Every 5 years
Once when first issued

Correct answer: At initial issue and repeated when there are changes to the wearer's face or the RPE model

RPE face-fit testing should be carried out at initial issue and whenever there are changes that could affect the seal, such as significant weight change, dental work, or facial scarring. It should also be repeated if the RPE model changes.

Question 32: What colour does a CAT scanner display or indicate when it detects a power cable in 'Power' mode?

Green for safe to dig
Blue for water
The signal strength increases and an audible warning sounds — the operator must mark the position and determine the depth before any excavation (Correct answer)
No indication is given in Power mode

Correct answer: The signal strength increases and an audible warning sounds — the operator must mark the position and determine the depth before any excavation

In Power mode, the CAT detects the electromagnetic field naturally emitted by live power cables. The signal strength meter shows increasing readings as the detector approaches the cable, and an audible tone becomes louder. The operator must mark the cable's position on the ground and use the Genny to establish its depth. HSE guidance HSG47 requires all modes (Power, Radio, Genny) to be used.

Question 33: What is the role of a banksman on a construction site?

Managing the site's bank account
Guiding the movement of plant and vehicles using standardised hand signals or radios to ensure safe manoeuvring (Correct answer)
Inspecting scaffolding
Operating the crane

Correct answer: Guiding the movement of plant and vehicles using standardised hand signals or radios to ensure safe manoeuvring

A banksman (also called a signaller or marshaller) is a trained person who guides plant operators and vehicle drivers during manoeuvres where visibility is restricted. They use standardised hand signals or radio communication to direct reversing vehicles, crane operations, and other plant movements safely.

Question 34: What health risk is directly associated with poorly maintained sanitation facilities on a construction site?

Increased risk of illness and infection spreading among workers (Correct answer)
Increased risk of fire from combustible materials
Increased risk of electrical faults in welfare areas
Increased risk of slipping and falling near toilet blocks

Correct answer: Increased risk of illness and infection spreading among workers

Inadequate or dirty toilet and washing facilities allow bacteria and viruses to spread easily among workers, leading to gastrointestinal illness and other infections.

Question 35: Which GHS symbol is used for substances that are harmful to the aquatic environment?

The skull and crossbones
The flame over a circle
The dead fish and tree symbol (Correct answer)
The health hazard silhouette

Correct answer: The dead fish and tree symbol

The GHS environmental hazard symbol (GHS09) shows a dead fish and tree, indicating the substance is toxic to aquatic life. On construction sites, substances such as certain paints, solvents, and diesel fuel carry this symbol and must be stored and disposed of to prevent water pollution.

Question 36: What is the danger of using a 230V supply for portable equipment on a construction site instead of 110V CTE?

There is no additional danger as modern RCDs provide complete protection
230V is only dangerous if the equipment is not PAT tested
230V equipment simply runs faster than 110V
The maximum voltage to earth is 230V rather than 55V, greatly increasing the risk of fatal electrocution particularly in wet or damp conditions (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The maximum voltage to earth is 230V rather than 55V, greatly increasing the risk of fatal electrocution particularly in wet or damp conditions

With a 230V supply, the full 230V appears between any live conductor and earth. With 110V CTE, the maximum voltage to earth is only 55V. The IET and HSE confirm that 55V is unlikely to cause a fatal shock even in adverse conditions, whereas 230V can kill instantly. This is why HSE guidance and BS 7671 mandate 110V CTE for portable construction site equipment.

Question 37: What action should be taken with PPE after exposure to a hazardous substance?

Store it with clean PPE
Return it to the supplier
Reuse it after shaking off the dust
Decontaminate or dispose of it according to the manufacturer's instructions and COSHH assessment (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Decontaminate or dispose of it according to the manufacturer's instructions and COSHH assessment

PPE contaminated with hazardous substances must be decontaminated following the manufacturer's instructions and COSHH assessment, or safely disposed of as hazardous waste if decontamination is not possible.

Question 38: Under UK regulations, how often should fire drills be carried out on a construction site?

Only once at the start of the project
At regular intervals, typically every 6 months or when there are significant changes to the site layout (Correct answer)
Daily
Never — they are not required on construction sites

Correct answer: At regular intervals, typically every 6 months or when there are significant changes to the site layout

Fire drills should be carried out at regular intervals to ensure all workers know the evacuation procedure. On construction sites where layouts change frequently, drills may need to be more frequent than in fixed premises.

Question 39: Which of the following is a practical way to reduce noise exposure on a construction site?

Increase the speed of noisy machinery to finish the task quicker
Select quieter plant and equipment, use silencers, and limit the duration of exposure through job rotation (Correct answer)
Remove all hearing protection zone signs
Move noisy equipment closer to workers so they can finish faster

Correct answer: Select quieter plant and equipment, use silencers, and limit the duration of exposure through job rotation

Practical noise reduction measures include selecting quieter tools and equipment, fitting silencers or mufflers, using noise barriers or enclosures, maintaining equipment properly, limiting exposure time through job rotation, and segregating noisy work from other activities.

Question 40: What is the legal definition of 'work at height' under UK regulations?

Working above 3 metres indoors only
Working above 2 metres from the ground
Working on any scaffold or ladder
Working at any place from which a person could fall a distance liable to cause personal injury (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Working at any place from which a person could fall a distance liable to cause personal injury

Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, work at height means work in any place, including at or below ground level, from which a person could fall a distance liable to cause personal injury. This includes working near excavations or openings.

Question 41: A worker is found unconscious and not breathing on a construction site. After calling 999, what should you do while waiting for the ambulance?

Begin CPR at 30 compressions to 2 breaths (Correct answer)
Elevate their legs above heart level
Give them water to drink
Place them in the recovery position and wait

Correct answer: Begin CPR at 30 compressions to 2 breaths

If a casualty is unconscious and not breathing, you should begin CPR immediately at a ratio of 30 compressions to 2 rescue breaths (30:2). Continue CPR until the emergency services arrive, an AED is available, or the casualty shows signs of life.

Question 42: What is the UKCA marking and when is it required?

It is only needed for imported PPE
It is the UK Conformity Assessment marking required for PPE sold in Great Britain post-Brexit (Correct answer)
It is a quality award
It replaces the CSCS card

Correct answer: It is the UK Conformity Assessment marking required for PPE sold in Great Britain post-Brexit

The UKCA (UK Conformity Assessment) marking replaced the CE marking for PPE placed on the market in Great Britain after Brexit. It confirms the product meets UK safety standards. CE marking remains valid in Northern Ireland.

Question 43: At what rate should chest compressions be delivered during CPR according to Resuscitation Council (UK) guidelines?

100-120 per minute (Correct answer)
120-140 per minute
60-80 per minute
80-100 per minute

Correct answer: 100-120 per minute

The Resuscitation Council (UK) recommends delivering chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute, with a depth of 5-6 cm for an adult. Compressions should be delivered with minimal interruptions.

Question 44: Which of the three asbestos types is considered the most hazardous to health?

Crocidolite (blue) (Correct answer)
All three are equally hazardous with no difference in risk
Amosite (brown)
Chrysotile (white)

Correct answer: Crocidolite (blue)

Crocidolite (blue asbestos) is considered the most hazardous because its fibres are the thinnest and most easily inhaled deep into the lungs, and they are highly resistant to the body's natural defence mechanisms. However, the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 treat all three types as equally dangerous in legal terms, and all can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

Question 45: Under COSHH Regulation 7, what is the general duty placed on employers?

To report all substance use to the HSE
To ban all hazardous substances from the workplace
To provide PPE to all workers regardless of risk
To ensure that exposure of employees to substances hazardous to health is either prevented or, where this is not reasonably practicable, adequately controlled (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To ensure that exposure of employees to substances hazardous to health is either prevented or, where this is not reasonably practicable, adequately controlled

COSHH Regulation 7 places a general duty on employers to prevent exposure to hazardous substances, or where prevention is not reasonably practicable, to adequately control exposure. This is the fundamental requirement around which all COSHH controls are built.

Question 46: What emergency procedures must be in place at a workplace where asbestos may be present?

Standard fire evacuation procedures are sufficient
Specific asbestos emergency procedures including how to deal with accidental disturbance, fibre release, decontamination of affected areas, notification requirements, and health surveillance for anyone exposed (Correct answer)
No specific emergency procedures are needed for asbestos
Only a phone number for an asbestos removal company

Correct answer: Specific asbestos emergency procedures including how to deal with accidental disturbance, fibre release, decontamination of affected areas, notification requirements, and health surveillance for anyone exposed

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, workplaces with known or suspected asbestos must have specific emergency procedures covering: stopping work and evacuating the area if ACMs are accidentally disturbed; preventing access to contaminated areas; emergency decontamination; notification to the dutyholder and enforcing authority; and arrangements for health surveillance of any persons inadvertently exposed.

Question 47: Which regulation requires that guard rails on a scaffold platform are at a specific height?

Work at Height Regulations 2005 (Correct answer)
COSHH Regulations 2002
Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992
RIDDOR 2013

Correct answer: Work at Height Regulations 2005

The Work at Height Regulations 2005 (Schedule 2) specify that guard rails must be at least 950mm above the platform edge. They must also include intermediate guard rails or toe boards to prevent falls of persons and materials.

Question 48: What is the correct lifting technique according to HSE guidance?

Plan the lift, keep the load close to the body, bend the knees, and avoid twisting (Correct answer)
Lift as quickly as possible to reduce strain
Always use one hand for balance
Bend at the waist and keep legs straight

Correct answer: Plan the lift, keep the load close to the body, bend the knees, and avoid twisting

HSE guidance recommends planning the lift, keeping the load close to the body, bending the knees (not the back), maintaining a stable base, avoiding twisting, and keeping the head up while lifting.

Question 49: What is the safe exclusion zone distance for work near 400kV overhead power lines as specified by HSE guidance?

3 metres
15 metres (Correct answer)
9 metres
6 metres

Correct answer: 15 metres

HSE guidance note GS6 specifies a minimum safe distance of 15 metres from 400kV overhead power lines. For lower voltages, smaller distances apply — for example, 6 metres for lines up to 33kV. These distances account for potential electrical arcing and the swing of cables in wind.

Question 50: Which of the following is the correct hierarchy for managing risks when working at height?

Prevent, avoid, use PPE
Avoid, prevent, mitigate (Correct answer)
Mitigate, prevent, avoid
Use PPE first, then collective protection, then avoid

Correct answer: Avoid, prevent, mitigate

The hierarchy under the Work at Height Regulations 2005 is: first avoid work at height, then prevent falls using collective or personal protection, then mitigate the distance and consequences of a fall.

Question 51: Under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, how often must a First Aid at Work (FAW) certificate be renewed?

Every year
Every 5 years
Every 2 years
Every 3 years (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Every 3 years

A First Aid at Work (FAW) certificate is valid for 3 years and must be renewed before it expires. HSE guidance recommends annual refresher training to maintain skills, although this is advisory rather than mandatory.

Question 52: What does a CAT scanner detect when used before excavation work near electrical cables?

Underground power cables, metal pipes, and other buried services (Correct answer)
Only metallic water pipes
Concrete reinforcement bars only
Soil contamination levels

Correct answer: Underground power cables, metal pipes, and other buried services

A Cable Avoidance Tool (CAT) detects underground power cables, telecommunications cables, and metallic pipes using different detection modes (power, radio, and Genny modes). HSE guidance PG381 requires CAT and Genny surveys before any excavation to locate buried services and prevent cable strikes.

CSCS Health, Safety and Environment Test

The CSCS Health, Safety and Environment Test is required to obtain the CSCS Green Card for UK construction site workers, covering working at height, manual handling, PPE, fire safety, COSHH, electrical safety, and environmental awareness.

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