CSCS Ireland Noise and Vibration 3

Question 1

Under Irish regulations, when must employers arrange health surveillance for workers exposed to noise?

Accepted Answer

When workers are regularly exposed at or above the upper noise exposure action value of 85 dB(A)

Answer

Regulation 130 of the 2007 Regulations requires employers to provide health surveillance (including audiometric testing) for workers regularly exposed at or above the upper exposure action value of 85 dB(A).

Question 2

Which measure is the most effective engineering control for reducing hand-arm vibration exposure from tools?

Accepted Answer

Selecting and using low-vibration tools and maintaining them in good condition

Answer

Selecting tools with lower vibration emissions and keeping them properly maintained (sharp blades, correct settings) directly reduces the vibration at source, which is more effective than downstream controls.

Question 3

What should a construction worker do if they notice their fingers turning white or becoming numb after using vibrating tools?

Accepted Answer

Report the symptoms to their supervisor and seek medical advice promptly

Answer

White or numb fingers after vibrating-tool use are early warning signs of HAVS; early reporting and medical assessment can limit further progression, which is irreversible if ignored.

Question 4

Which work practice most effectively reduces total hand-arm vibration exposure during a working shift?

Accepted Answer

Limiting the duration of vibrating-tool use and rotating workers between vibrating and non-vibrating tasks

Answer

Reducing exposure time through task rotation and planned rest breaks directly lowers the A(8) daily vibration dose, keeping workers below action and limit values.

Question 5

What does the abbreviation HAV stand for in Irish construction health and safety?

Accepted Answer

Hand-Arm Vibration

Answer

HAV stands for Hand-Arm Vibration, referring to vibration that is transmitted from vibrating tools and machinery into the hands and arms of the operator.

CSCS Ireland Practice Test

CSCS Ireland Practice Test

CSCS Ireland Noise and Vibration 3