NEBOSH CC Fire Safety on Sites

Question 1

What are the three elements of the fire triangle that must be present for a fire to start?

Accepted Answer

Heat, fuel, and oxygen

Answer

The fire triangle consists of heat (ignition source), fuel (combustible material), and oxygen (usually from air). Removing any one of these elements will prevent a fire from starting or will extinguish an existing fire. Fire risk assessment on construction sites focuses on controlling these three elements.

Question 2

What is the primary legislation governing fire safety on construction sites in England?

Accepted Answer

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, supplemented by CDM 2015 and Joint Code of Practice on Fire Prevention

Answer

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO) applies to all workplaces including construction sites. It requires a responsible person to carry out a fire risk assessment and implement appropriate fire precautions. The Joint Code of Practice on Fire Prevention in Construction (published by the Fire Protection Association) provides specific construction guidance.

Question 3

A hot work permit has been issued for cutting steel beams on a construction site. What is the minimum recommended fire watch period after hot work has been completed?

Accepted Answer

60 minutes (1 hour) after completion of hot work

Answer

The Joint Code of Practice on Fire Prevention in Construction recommends a fire watch for at least 60 minutes after completion of hot work. Smouldering materials can take considerable time to develop into a visible fire. A fire extinguisher must be available throughout the fire watch period.

Question 4

What type of fire extinguisher should NOT be used on electrical fires?

Accepted Answer

Water extinguisher (red label)

Answer

Water extinguishers must never be used on electrical fires as water conducts electricity and could electrocute the operator. CO2 extinguishers (black label) are the preferred choice for electrical fires as CO2 is non-conductive and leaves no residue. Dry powder can also be used but leaves residue.

Question 5

On a construction site, how should flammable liquids such as petrol, solvents, and adhesives be stored?

Accepted Answer

In a dedicated, ventilated, fire-resistant store away from ignition sources with appropriate signage and bunding

Answer

Flammable liquids must be stored in purpose-built, fire-resistant stores with adequate ventilation (to prevent vapour accumulation), away from ignition sources and site boundaries. Quantities kept on site should be minimised, containers kept closed, and appropriate hazard signage displayed. Bunding should contain at least 110% of the largest container.

NEBOSH Construction Certificate Practice Test

NEBOSH Construction Certificate Practice Test

NEBOSH CC Fire Safety on Sites