CITB PPE & Site Welfare

Question 1

Where does PPE sit in the hierarchy of controls?

Accepted Answer

Last resort — used only after higher-level controls have been implemented and residual risk remains

Answer

PPE is the last line of defence; higher-level measures such as elimination, substitution, engineering controls, and administrative controls must be implemented first.

Question 2

Which standard governs the selection and use of safety helmets on UK construction sites?

Accepted Answer

BS EN 397 (industrial safety helmets)

Answer

BS EN 397 is the standard for industrial safety helmets, specifying impact resistance, penetration resistance, and chin strap performance requirements.

Question 3

What does the CE or UKCA marking on PPE indicate?

Accepted Answer

The PPE meets harmonised safety standards and has been conformity-assessed

Answer

CE marking (UKCA marking for the GB market post-Brexit) confirms the PPE has been assessed against relevant harmonised standards and complies with applicable PPE regulations.

Question 4

Who is responsible for ensuring PPE is properly used on a construction site?

Accepted Answer

Both the employer (to provide, train, and enforce use) and the worker (to use and maintain PPE correctly)

Answer

PPE regulations place duties on both employers (provision, training, enforcement, maintenance) and workers (correct use and reporting defects) — responsibility is shared.

Question 5

What type of PPE protects against noise levels above 85 dB(A) on a construction site?

Accepted Answer

Hearing protection such as earmuffs or earplugs with an adequate SNR rating

Answer

The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 require hearing protection at or above 85 dB(A); earplugs or earmuffs with sufficient attenuation for the noise level must be selected.

CITB HS&E Operatives Practice Test

CITB HS&E Operatives Practice Test

CITB PPE & Site Welfare