NEBOSH CC Fire Prevention in Construction 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: How long after completion of hot work should a fire watch typically be maintained?
- At least 60 minutes (1 hour) after work finishes (Correct answer)
- 5 minutes
- 15 minutes
- Until the end of the shift
Correct answer: At least 60 minutes (1 hour) after work finishes
A fire watch must be maintained for at least 60 minutes after hot work finishes. Smouldering fires in concealed voids or within materials can remain undetected and develop into major fires after the workers have left the area.
Question 2: What is the minimum requirement for fire fighting equipment that must be available at all construction sites?
- Suitable fire extinguishers in sufficient numbers and type for the risks present (Correct answer)
- One water extinguisher at the site entrance
- A fire blanket in the site office
- A garden hose connected to the water supply
Correct answer: Suitable fire extinguishers in sufficient numbers and type for the risks present
Construction sites must have sufficient suitable fire extinguishers for the types of fire risk present. The selection must be based on the materials present (Class A, B, etc.) and the layout of the site. Extinguishers must be regularly maintained.
Question 3: What must a fire risk assessment on a construction site identify?
- Fire hazards, people at risk, existing controls, adequacy of means of escape and fire fighting equipment (Correct answer)
- Only the location of extinguishers
- The names of all site workers for evacuation purposes
- The cost of installing a fire suppression system
Correct answer: Fire hazards, people at risk, existing controls, adequacy of means of escape and fire fighting equipment
A fire risk assessment must identify fire hazards (sources of ignition, fuel and oxygen), people at risk (including visitors and contractors), evaluate existing controls, and ensure adequate means of escape, fire detection and fighting equipment.
Question 4: What is the primary hazard from storing LPG cylinders in an unventilated site hut?
- Gas leaks accumulating to form an explosive atmosphere that can be ignited by a small spark (Correct answer)
- Cylinders becoming too cold
- Loss of gas pressure
- Corrosion of the cylinder valves
Correct answer: Gas leaks accumulating to form an explosive atmosphere that can be ignited by a small spark
LPG is heavier than air and will accumulate at low level in an unventilated space. Even a small leak can create an explosive atmosphere. A small ignition source (electrical spark, cigarette lighter) can then cause a catastrophic explosion.
Question 5: What does the term 'means of escape' refer to in fire safety?
- The protected routes by which occupants can evacuate a building safely during a fire (Correct answer)
- The equipment used to fight a fire
- The fire alarm system that warns occupants of a fire
- The procedure for calling the fire service
Correct answer: The protected routes by which occupants can evacuate a building safely during a fire
Means of escape refers to the structural and organisational provision for people to leave a building safely during a fire, including escape routes, emergency lighting, exit signs, fire doors and assembly points.
Question 6: What is a 'fire assembly point'?
- A designated safe location outside a building where workers gather after evacuation to enable roll call (Correct answer)
- A location where fire extinguishers are stored
- The position of the fire alarm control panel
- The site of the fire brigade access point
Correct answer: A designated safe location outside a building where workers gather after evacuation to enable roll call
A fire assembly point is a pre-designated safe location away from the building where all workers, visitors and contractors are required to gather after evacuation. Roll call at the assembly point confirms everyone has evacuated safely.
NEBOSH CC Fire Prevention in Construction 2
How long after completion of hot work should a fire watch typically be maintained?