CSCS Personal Protective Equipment 3

Question 1

What is the lifespan of a typical construction safety helmet?

Accepted Answer

Typically 3-5 years from manufacture, depending on material and manufacturer guidance

Answer

Most manufacturers recommend replacing safety helmets every 3-5 years from date of manufacture (check the date stamp inside). UV exposure, temperature extremes, and chemicals can degrade the shell material over time.

Question 2

What type of eye protection is needed when cutting materials with an angle grinder?

Accepted Answer

Safety goggles or a face shield rated to BS EN 166 with appropriate impact resistance

Answer

Angle grinding produces high-velocity particles that require safety goggles or a face shield rated to BS EN 166 (now superseded by BS EN ISO 16321). The eye protection must have appropriate impact resistance grade for the hazard.

Question 3

What must an employer do before issuing PPE to a worker?

Accepted Answer

Assess the suitability of the PPE for the task and the individual, and provide training in its use

Answer

Before issuing PPE, employers must assess whether it is suitable for the specific hazards, compatible with other PPE being worn, fits the individual correctly, and provide adequate training and information on its proper use, storage, and maintenance.

Question 4

What is the difference between a disposable FFP2 mask and an FFP3 mask?

Accepted Answer

FFP3 has a higher assigned protection factor (APF 20) compared to FFP2 (APF 10)

Answer

FFP3 masks have an APF of 20 (filtering at least 99% of particles), while FFP2 masks have an APF of 10 (filtering at least 94%). FFP3 is required for higher-risk exposures such as silica dust and asbestos.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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.

CSCS Green Card Practice Test

CSCS Green Card Practice Test

CSCS Personal Protective Equipment 3