Controlling Risks Flashcards
6 cards from real IOSH practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Controlling Risks flashcards as text
What is a 'lock out/tag out' (LOTO) procedure?
Answer: A safety procedure to ensure machines are properly shut down, isolated and prevented from restarting during maintenance
Lock out/tag out (LOTO) is a safety procedure to ensure that machines and equipment are properly shut down, de-energised, and isolated from all energy sources before maintenance or repair work begins. Tags warn others not to restart the equipment.
What is the purpose of safety signage in the workplace?
Answer: To warn of hazards, indicate mandatory actions, show emergency routes, and prohibit dangerous behaviours
Safety signs provide important visual information about hazards, mandatory requirements, prohibitions, and emergency arrangements. They supplement other controls but should never be the sole control measure. The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 sets out requirements.
What are the four types of safety sign and their colours?
Answer: Red (prohibition/fire), yellow (warning), blue (mandatory), green (safe condition/first aid)
Safety signs follow an international colour-coding system: Red = prohibition and fire equipment; Yellow/amber = warning of hazards; Blue = mandatory actions; Green = safe conditions, escape routes and first aid. Shape also varies: circle, triangle, circle, rectangle respectively.
What should be considered when selecting PPE for a task?
Answer: The nature of the hazard, fit, comfort, compatibility with other PPE, and the work environment
When selecting PPE, consider: the nature and severity of the hazard, the fit (including individual sizing), comfort (so it will be worn), compatibility with other PPE being worn simultaneously, the work environment, and any health conditions of the wearer.
What is 'maintenance' of control measures and why is it important?
Answer: Regular checking, servicing and repair of controls to ensure they continue to work effectively
Maintenance of control measures — including guards, ventilation systems, PPE, alarms and safety devices — is essential to ensure they continue to function as intended. Without maintenance, controls can degrade and fail, leaving workers unprotected.
What is the difference between 'collective' and 'individual' protection measures?
Answer: Collective measures protect everyone in the area (e.g., guardrails); individual measures protect one person (e.g., harness)
Collective protection measures protect everyone in the area without requiring individual action (e.g., guardrails, LEV, machine guards). Individual measures protect only the person using them (e.g., harnesses, respirators, ear defenders). Collective measures are always preferred.