CSCS Ireland COSHH and Accident Reporting

Question 1

What does COSHH stand for in an Irish construction context?

Accepted Answer

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health

Answer

COSHH stands for Control of Substances Hazardous to Health. In Ireland, it is addressed under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Chemical Agents) Regulations and requires assessment and control of hazardous substances.

Question 2

What is a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and why is it required for substances used on a construction site?

Accepted Answer

A document provided by the manufacturer that details the hazards, safe handling, storage, and emergency measures for a chemical substance

Answer

An SDS (previously called Material Safety Data Sheet/MSDS) provides essential information about a chemical's hazards, exposure limits, PPE requirements, storage, disposal, and emergency procedures. It must be available on site for every hazardous substance.

Question 3

What is silica dust and why is it particularly hazardous on construction sites?

Accepted Answer

Fine dust produced when cutting, grinding, or drilling concrete, stone, or brick — causes incurable silicosis (scarring of the lungs)

Answer

Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) is produced when materials containing quartz are cut, ground, or drilled. When inhaled deeply, it causes silicosis — irreversible and progressive scarring of the lung tissue. It also increases lung cancer risk.

Question 4

What is the correct method for mixing cement on a construction site to minimise COSHH risks?

Accepted Answer

Use mechanical mixing, ensure workers are upwind, wear RPE and gloves, and minimise manual handling of dry cement

Answer

Cement dust is corrosive and can cause cement burns, dermatitis, and lung damage. Mechanical mixing, positioning workers upwind, using RPE, and wearing impermeable gloves and arm protection minimise exposure.

Question 5

Which of the following conditions must be reported to the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) in Ireland under the Reporting of Accidents regulations?

Accepted Answer

All fatal accidents and accidents causing incapacity for more than 3 consecutive days

Answer

Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act and associated regulations, fatal accidents must be reported immediately. Non-fatal accidents that result in an injured person being unable to work for more than 3 consecutive days must also be reported to the HSA.

CSCS Ireland Practice Test

CSCS Ireland Practice Test

CSCS Ireland COSHH and Accident Reporting