Free CPSI Hazard Identification and Assessment Questions and Answers

Question 1

During an inspection of a public playground, a CPSI identifies a bolt on a piece of play equipment that extends more than two threads beyond the nut. According to ASTM F1487, what type of hazard does this condition MOST likely represent?

Accepted Answer

An entanglement hazard

Answer

ASTM F1487 specifies that bolts should not extend more than two threads beyond the nut to prevent clothing, strings, or other items from catching on them, which poses an entanglement hazard that could lead to strangulation.

Question 2

A CPSI is evaluating an opening on a play structure intended for children aged 2-5. The opening is found to be greater than 3.5 inches but less than 9 inches. What is the primary hazard associated with an opening of this size?

Accepted Answer

Head entrapment

Answer

Openings between 3.5 and 9 inches are a significant concern because they are large enough for a child's body to pass through but small enough to trap their head, creating a serious risk of strangulation.

Question 3

Which of the following is considered the MOST common cause of injuries on public playgrounds, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)?

Accepted Answer

Falls to the surface below

Answer

The CPSC's Public Playground Safety Handbook consistently identifies falls as the most common hazard pattern, accounting for the majority of emergency room-treated injuries on playgrounds.

Question 4

A playground features a series of stepping forms. To minimize the risk of injury from a fall, a CPSI must assess the 'fall height'. How is the fall height for a stepping form typically determined?

Accepted Answer

The vertical distance between the highest designated playing surface and the protective surfacing below.

Answer

According to playground safety standards, fall height is defined as the vertical distance between a designated play surface (in this case, the top of the highest stepper) and the protective surfacing underneath it. This measurement is crucial for ensuring the surfacing has adequate impact attenuation.

Question 5

While inspecting a merry-go-round, a CPSI notices a gap between the rotating platform and the stationary base of the equipment. Which type of hazard should the inspector be most concerned with in this specific location?

Accepted Answer

Crush and shear

Answer

The point where a moving part (the rotating platform) meets a fixed part (the stationary base) creates a potential for crush and shear injuries. A child's limb or finger could get caught in this gap during rotation, leading to serious injury.

CPSI - Certified Playground Safety Inspector Practice Test

CPSI - Certified Playground Safety Inspector Practice Test

Free CPSI Hazard Identification and Assessment Questions and Answers