ECS - Electrotechnical Certification Scheme Work at Height Safety Questions and Answers

Question 1

According to the Work at Height Regulations 2005, what is the first and most important control measure to consider before starting any task that might involve working at height?

Accepted Answer

Avoiding the need to work at height altogether by, for example, assembling components at ground level.

Answer

Ensuring all workers have been issued with personal fall arrest systems.

Answer

Conducting a pre-use inspection of the access equipment, such as a ladder or MEWP.

Answer

Placing warning signs and barriers around the area where work at height will take place.

Question 2

An electrician is tasked with installing a new lighting fixture on a high ceiling inside a commercial building with a flat, level floor. Which type of access equipment would generally be considered the safest and most appropriate choice for this scenario?

Accepted Answer

A scissor lift (a type of Mobile Elevating Work Platform - MEWP).

Answer

A leaning ladder placed against a nearby wall.

Answer

A mobile scaffold tower.

Answer

A stepladder positioned directly underneath the work area.

Question 3

Which of the following is a critical safety requirement when using a leaning ladder for electrical work?

Accepted Answer

The user must always maintain three points of contact with the ladder while climbing or descending.

Answer

The ladder must be made of a conductive material like aluminium for strength.

Answer

It is acceptable to work from the top three rungs if the ladder is secured at the top.

Answer

The base of the ladder should be placed one foot away from the wall for every five feet of height.

Question 4

A personal fall arrest system, including a harness and lanyard, has been issued to a worker. According to UK regulations and best practice, what inspection regime must be followed?

Accepted Answer

A pre-use check by the user before each use, and a detailed inspection by a competent person at least every 6-12 months.

Answer

A formal inspection by a competent person is only required if the equipment is involved in a fall.

Answer

The worker should perform a quick visual check annually.

Answer

The equipment only needs to be inspected by the manufacturer every two years.

Question 5

When planning work at height, the 'hierarchy of control' must be applied. Which of the following correctly orders the measures from most preferable to least preferable?

Accepted Answer

1. Avoid work at height, 2. Use collective protection (e.g., guardrails), 3. Use personal protection (e.g., harness).

Answer

1. Use PPE, 2. Use collective protection (e.g., guardrails), 3. Avoid work at height.

Answer

1. Use personal protection (e.g., harness), 2. Use collective protection (e.g., guardrails), 3. Avoid work at height.

Answer

1. Use collective protection (e.g., guardrails), 2. Avoid work at height, 3. Use personal protection (e.g., harness).

Question 6

An electrician needs to work near exposed overhead power lines. Which type of ladder material is mandatory for this task?

Accepted Answer

Fibreglass, because it is non-conductive.

Answer

Aluminium, because it is lightweight and strong.

Answer

Wood, as long as it is dry.

Answer

Steel, for maximum durability.