CSCS Working at Height 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the maximum recommended height for a free-standing mobile tower scaffold used outdoors?
- 12 metres
- 8 metres
- 4 metres
- The height-to-base ratio should not exceed 3:1 outdoors (Correct answer)
Correct answer: The height-to-base ratio should not exceed 3:1 outdoors
For free-standing mobile tower scaffolds used outdoors, the height-to-base ratio should not exceed 3:1. Indoors, the ratio can be up to 3.5:1. This prevents overturning due to wind loading.
Question 2: What must be fitted to the edge of a scaffold platform to prevent tools and materials from falling?
- A safety net
- A toe board at least 150mm high (Correct answer)
- A warning sign
- Brick guards only
Correct answer: A toe board at least 150mm high
Toe boards at least 150mm high must be fitted at the edge of scaffold platforms to prevent tools, materials, and debris from falling and injuring people below. Brick guards may also be required where materials are stacked.
Question 3: What is the legal requirement for ladder use under the Work at Height Regulations 2005?
- Ladders are banned on construction sites
- Ladders can only be used for short-duration work where the risk is low (Correct answer)
- Ladders can be used for any task up to 6 metres
- 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 4: What angle should a leaning ladder be placed at against a structure?
- 45 degrees
- 75 degrees (1 out for every 4 up) (Correct answer)
- 60 degrees
- 90 degrees
Correct answer: 75 degrees (1 out for every 4 up)
A leaning ladder should be placed at an angle of 75 degrees to the horizontal, which equates to a ratio of 1 unit out for every 4 units up. This provides optimal stability and reduces the risk of the ladder slipping.
Question 5: Who must prepare a written rescue plan before work at height commences?
- The HSE
- The employer or person controlling the work (Correct answer)
- The local authority
- The worker themselves
Correct answer: The employer or person controlling the work
The employer or person who controls the work at height must ensure that a rescue plan is in place before work begins. This is required under the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and ensures emergency procedures are established.
Question 6: What is the purpose of an edge protection system on a flat roof?
- To improve the appearance of the building
- To prevent workers and materials from falling from the roof edge (Correct answer)
- To act as a handrail for visitors
- To support solar panels
Correct answer: To prevent workers and materials from falling from the roof edge
Edge protection systems on flat roofs are collective fall prevention measures that prevent workers, tools, and materials from falling from the roof edge. They are preferred over personal fall protection as they protect all workers simultaneously.
CSCS Working at Height 3
What is the maximum recommended height for a free-standing mobile tower scaffold used outdoors?