General Site Safety Flashcards

What types of work typically require a permit to work on a construction site?

Answer: Hot work, confined space entry, electrical work on live systems, and work involving asbestos

Permits to work are typically required for high-risk activities including hot work (welding, burning, grinding), confined space entry, work on or near live electrical systems, excavation near buried services, work involving asbestos, work on pressurised systems, and any task where a specific safe system of work must be followed.

What is the minimum height for perimeter fencing around a construction site to prevent unauthorised access?

Answer: 2.0 metres

HSE guidance recommends that perimeter fencing around construction sites should be at least 2 metres high to deter unauthorised access. Fencing must be maintained in good condition, regularly inspected, and any damage repaired promptly. Gates must be lockable and secured when the site is unattended.

What must be included in a construction phase plan under CDM 2015?

Answer: The arrangements for managing health and safety during the construction phase, including site rules, specific safety measures, and the management structure

Under CDM 2015 Regulation 12, the construction phase plan must set out the arrangements for managing health and safety during the construction work. It must include site rules, arrangements for induction and welfare, specific safety measures for high-risk work, emergency procedures, and the management structure for health and safety.

What are the banksman's standard hand signals for directing a vehicle to stop?

Answer: One arm extended with the palm facing the driver, or both arms raised with palms facing the driver

The standard stop signal is one or both arms raised with the palm(s) facing the driver. These signals are standardised under BS 6736 and must be clearly understood by both the banksman and the operator. All banksmen must be trained in the correct use of signals before being deployed on site.

What should happen if the conditions specified in a permit to work change during the task?

Answer: Work must stop, the permit must be cancelled, and a new permit must be issued reflecting the changed conditions

If conditions change (e.g., unexpected hazard discovered, change in scope, adverse weather), work must stop immediately. The existing permit must be cancelled and a new risk assessment carried out. A new permit reflecting the changed conditions must be issued before work can resume.

Under CDM 2015, what welfare facilities must be provided before construction work starts on site?

Answer: Toilets, washing facilities, drinking water, rest facilities, and changing rooms must be available from day one

CDM 2015 Schedule 2 requires that suitable and sufficient welfare facilities are available from the start of the construction phase. This includes sanitary conveniences, washing facilities (with hot and cold water, soap, and towels), drinking water, changing rooms, rest facilities with seating, and means for heating food and boiling water.