NCCER Core Construction Site Safety 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What color hard hat typically identifies a visitor or new worker on a construction site?
- White
- Yellow
- Green (Correct answer)
- Blue
Correct answer: Green
Green hard hats typically identify new workers, trainees, or safety observers.
Common conventions: White for supervisors/engineers, Yellow for general laborers, Blue for electricians, Green for new workers/trainees/safety inspectors, Red for fire marshals. Color coding helps ensure new workers receive additional oversight.
Question 2: What must be done before any excavation work begins?
- Order all project materials
- Contact utility companies to locate underground lines (Correct answer)
- Set up temporary lighting
- Pave the access road
Correct answer: Contact utility companies to locate underground lines
All underground utility lines must be located by calling 811 before excavation.
Federal law requires calling 811 before digging. Utility companies mark locations with color-coded paint: Red = electric, Yellow = gas/oil, Blue = water, Green = sewer, Orange = communications. Striking utilities can cause explosions, electrocution, and service disruptions.
Question 3: What is the maximum gap allowed between scaffold planks and the structure?
- 8 inches
- 10 inches
- 14 inches (Correct answer)
- 18 inches
Correct answer: 14 inches
OSHA allows a maximum gap of 14 inches between scaffold planks and the work face.
OSHA 1926.451(b)(1) specifies that scaffold platforms must not be more than 14 inches from the face of work unless guardrails or fall arrest systems are used. Planks must extend 6-12 inches beyond supports and overlap at least 12 inches.
Question 4: How far apart should ladder rungs be spaced?
- 8 inches
- 10 inches
- 12 inches (Correct answer)
- 14 inches
Correct answer: 12 inches
Ladder rungs must be uniformly spaced at 12 inches (10-14 inches acceptable range).
OSHA requires rung spacing between 10-14 inches, with 12 inches standard. Consistent spacing is critical because workers develop a climbing rhythm. Ladders must extend 3 feet above the landing surface and be placed at a 4:1 angle ratio.
Question 5: What is the purpose of a competent person on a construction site?
- To manage the project budget
- To identify and correct safety hazards with authority to take action (Correct answer)
- To order materials
- To negotiate contracts
Correct answer: To identify and correct safety hazards with authority to take action
A competent person can identify hazards and has authority to take prompt corrective measures.
OSHA defines a competent person as one who can identify existing and predictable hazards AND has authority to take prompt corrective measures. This differs from a qualified person (who has recognized credentials). Competent persons are required for excavation, scaffolding, fall protection, and crane operations.
Question 6: What does a red tag on equipment indicate?
- Equipment passed inspection
- Equipment is out of service and must not be used (Correct answer)
- Equipment is available for use
- Equipment needs routine maintenance
Correct answer: Equipment is out of service and must not be used
A red tag indicates equipment is defective, out of service, or unsafe.
Red tags mean equipment must NOT be used. Only the person who placed the tag or authorized personnel can remove it after the issue is corrected. Yellow tags indicate caution; green tags indicate inspected and safe to use.
NCCER Core Construction Site Safety 2
What color hard hat typically identifies a visitor or new worker on a construction site?