IOSH Protecting Our Environment 4

Question 1

What is 'environmental due diligence'?

Accepted Answer

The process of assessing environmental risks and liabilities associated with a site, business or activity, including contamination and compliance

Answer

Environmental due diligence involves assessing potential environmental risks and liabilities. It is particularly important during property transactions, mergers, and acquisitions. It covers contaminated land, compliance with permits, waste management practices, and potential future liabilities.

Question 2

What is a 'spill kit' and when should it be available?

Accepted Answer

A kit containing absorbent materials and equipment to contain and clean up chemical spills, available wherever chemicals are stored or used

Answer

A spill kit contains materials to contain and clean up chemical or oil spills — typically absorbent pads, booms, granules, gloves, goggles, disposal bags and instructions. They should be readily available wherever chemicals, oils or fuels are stored, used or transported.

Question 3

What penalties can an organisation face for environmental offences?

Accepted Answer

Unlimited fines, imprisonment (for individuals), remediation notices, and revocation of permits

Answer

Environmental offences can result in: unlimited fines (in the Crown Court), imprisonment for up to 5 years (for certain offences), remediation notices requiring clean-up at the offender's expense, revocation or suspension of permits, and civil liability for environmental damage.

Question 4

What is 'contaminated land'?

Accepted Answer

Land where substances in, on or under it are causing or could cause significant harm to human health or controlled waters

Answer

Under Part IIA of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, contaminated land is land where substances are present that are causing, or have the potential to cause, significant harm to human health, property or controlled waters. Local authorities have a duty to identify and remediate contaminated land.

Question 5

What is 'environmental awareness training' and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

Training that ensures workers understand their environmental responsibilities, the impacts of their work, and how to prevent pollution

Answer

Environmental awareness training ensures that all workers understand the environmental impacts of their activities, their legal responsibilities, emergency procedures for environmental incidents, and how their actions can prevent or cause pollution. It is essential for compliance and building an environmental culture.

IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

IOSH Protecting Our Environment 4