NEBOSH Manual Handling and Construction Safety

Question 1

What factors are assessed in a manual handling risk assessment using the TILEO framework?

Accepted Answer

Task (actions involved), Individual (worker capability, health), Load (weight, size, stability, temperature), Environment (space, floor, temperature), Other (PPE, training)

Answer

The TILEO framework systematically assesses manual handling risks: Task (twisting, repetitive, reach), Individual (pregnant, young, medical conditions, training), Load (heavy, bulky, sharp, hot, unpredictable), Environment (confined, wet floor, temperature extremes, stairs, lighting), Other factors (PPE restricting movement, training adequacy). All five must be assessed for any significant manual handling task.

Question 2

What is the correct manual handling technique for lifting a heavy box from floor level?

Accepted Answer

Plan the lift, close to the body, feet shoulder-width apart, bend knees (not back), straight back, smooth controlled movement, avoid twisting — turn feet not back

Answer

Safe manual handling: 1) Assess the load and plan, 2) Position feet shoulder-width apart beside the load, 3) Bend at the knees (not the waist), 4) Maintain natural spinal curves (don't flex the lumbar spine), 5) Grip firmly, 6) Lift by straightening legs with load close to the body, 7) Move feet to change direction — don't twist the spine.

Question 3

What is 'team lifting' and when is it required?

Accepted Answer

Coordinated lifting by two or more workers when a load is too heavy or awkward for safe solo lifting — requires a designated leader, synchronized movement, and all participants of sufficient height/strength

Answer

Team lifting is used when loads exceed individual capacity or handling solo creates excessive postural stress. Requirements: designate one person to direct, agree a plan before lifting, matched height and capability of all participants, synchronized initiation and movement, and adequate space for all handlers. Team lifting has limitations — communication failure and mismatched heights create risks.

Question 4

What are the main causes of fatal accidents in Gulf construction?

Accepted Answer

Falls from height, struck by vehicle or plant, collapse of excavations or structures, electrical contact, and crane/lifting equipment failures — accounting for the majority of construction fatalities

Answer

Gulf construction fatal accident causes (consistent with ILO and regional data): falls from height (scaffolding, roof edges, fragile surfaces, openings), struck by plant (mobile cranes, excavators, delivery vehicles), excavation collapse, electrical contact (overhead lines, temporary wiring), and lifting equipment failure. These are the 'Fatal Four' with the addition of crane incidents.

Question 5

What is required before work begins below overhead power lines on a Gulf construction site?

Accepted Answer

Identify line voltage, establish statutory minimum clearance distances, use goal posts or barriers to prevent over-height plant access, consider diversion or de-energization, and brief all site personnel

Answer

Overhead power line contact is an immediate electrocution hazard for construction plant operators. Requirements: survey and mark all OHPLs, establish safe clearance distances (for 33kV: 3m minimum, for 11kV: 2m, for 400kV: greater distances — contact utility for specific voltage data), erect goal posts (height restrictors) on approach routes, consider requesting line diversion or temporary de-energization for work directly beneath.

NEBOSH IGC Gulf Practice Test

NEBOSH IGC Gulf Practice Test

NEBOSH Manual Handling and Construction Safety