CTSP Hazard Identification and Control Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A tree crew is tasked with removing a large oak tree located in a tight residential space with a house on one side and a garage on the other. According to the hierarchy of hazard controls, which of the following actions represents the most effective control measure the crew could implement?
- Using a crane to lift sections of the tree out, instead of felling or dropping them. (Correct answer)
- Requiring all ground personnel to wear hard hats and high-visibility vests.
- Conducting a thorough pre-work briefing to discuss the drop zone and escape routes.
- Roping off the work area with caution tape to keep pedestrians out.
Correct answer: Using a crane to lift sections of the tree out, instead of felling or dropping them.
The hierarchy of controls ranks methods from most to least effective: Elimination, Substitution, Engineering Controls, Administrative Controls, and PPE. Using a crane is an engineering control that redesigns the work process to remove the hazard of uncontrolled falling sections, making it more effective than administrative controls (briefing, work zones) or PPE (hard hats).
Question 2: Before beginning any tree care operation, the ANSI Z133 standard requires a worksite assessment to identify potential hazards. Which of the following is a required component of this initial inspection?
- Determining if any electrical hazards exist. (Correct answer)
- Estimating the total time the job will take.
- Checking the client's payment history.
- Verifying the property lines with a surveyor.
Correct answer: Determining if any electrical hazards exist.
According to the ANSI Z133 standard, a crucial first step before work begins is a thorough site assessment to identify hazards. A key component of this is to inspect for the presence of electrical hazards, as contact with energized conductors is a leading cause of fatalities in arboriculture.
Question 3: A ground worker is tasked with operating a brush chipper. Which hazard control measure is an example of an administrative control for this task?
- Training the worker on the proper procedures for feeding material and using the emergency shut-off. (Correct answer)
- Ensuring the chipper's feed tray guard is in place and functional.
- Providing the worker with a hard hat, safety glasses, and hearing protection.
- Replacing the gasoline-powered chipper with an electric model to reduce noise.
Correct answer: Training the worker on the proper procedures for feeding material and using the emergency shut-off.
Administrative controls are work practices and procedures that reduce exposure to a hazard. Training on correct procedures is a classic example of an administrative control. The feed guard is an engineering control, the gear is PPE, and replacing the chipper is an example of substitution.
Question 4: A CTSP is investigating a near-miss incident where a climber almost came in contact with a secondary power line that was partially obscured by foliage. To prevent a recurrence, which of the following is the MOST critical action to reinforce with all crews?
- Treating all overhead lines as energized until confirmed otherwise by the utility provider. (Correct answer)
- Always using fiberglass, non-conductive tools when working near power lines.
- Ensuring the climber has a second spotter on the ground at all times.
- Requiring the use of Class E (electrical) hard hats for all climbing operations.
Correct answer: Treating all overhead lines as energized until confirmed otherwise by the utility provider.
The foundational safety principle for electrical hazards, as outlined in ANSI Z133 and OSHA guidelines, is to assume all lines are energized with potentially fatal voltages. This mindset is the most critical preventative measure. While the other options are important controls (PPE, administrative), the fundamental assumption of danger is paramount.
Question 5: During a job briefing for a roadside pruning operation, which of the following topics is specifically required by ANSI Z133 to be communicated to all affected workers?
- Hazards associated with the job and special precautions. (Correct answer)
- The location of the nearest emergency room.
- The expected profit margin for the job.
- The client's specific requests for branch aesthetics.
Correct answer: Hazards associated with the job and special precautions.
The ANSI Z133 standard mandates that a job briefing be performed before the start of each job. This briefing must be communicated to all affected workers and cover specific subjects, including hazards associated with the job, work procedures, special precautions, electrical hazards, job assignments, and PPE requirements.
Question 6: A tree care company is working in an area known for poison ivy. Providing instruction on the identification, preventive measures, and first-aid treatment for this plant is an example of controlling what type of hazard?
- Biological hazard (Correct answer)
- Chemical hazard
- Physical hazard
- Ergonomic hazard
Correct answer: Biological hazard
Poison ivy, along with stinging insects and other pests, is classified as a biological hazard. ANSI Z133 requires that employers provide instruction on identifying and treating issues related to common poisonous plants in the work area.
CTSP Hazard Identification and Control Questions and Answers
A tree crew is tasked with removing a large oak tree located in a tight residential space with a house on one side and a garage on the other.
According to the hierarchy of hazard controls, which of the following actions represents the most effective control measure the crew could implement?