FREE STSC Hazard Identification and Control Questions and Answers

Question 1

A Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) has identified that a specific task requires workers to use a solvent-based paint with high VOCs inside a poorly ventilated space. According to the hierarchy of controls, which of the following is the most effective measure to protect the workers?

Accepted Answer

Using a water-based, low-VOC paint instead.

Answer

The hierarchy of controls prioritizes hazard control methods from most to least effective. Substitution, which involves replacing a hazardous material or process with a less hazardous one, is more effective than engineering controls (exhaust fan), administrative controls (shorter shifts), or Personal Protective Equipment (respirators).

Question 2

A construction supervisor is reviewing safety metrics to proactively identify and address potential risks before incidents occur. Which of the following is a leading indicator of safety performance?

Accepted Answer

Number of safety observations and near-miss reports submitted.

Answer

Leading indicators are proactive, forward-looking measures that track activities designed to prevent incidents. The number of safety observations and near-miss reports is a leading indicator because it reflects active employee engagement in identifying hazards before they cause an accident. TRIR, DART rate, and compensation costs are all lagging indicators, as they measure past incidents and outcomes.

Question 3

During a daily site inspection, a supervisor notices a large, unmarked puddle of clear liquid on a concrete walkway in a high-traffic area. What is the supervisor's most immediate and appropriate first step?

Accepted Answer

Barricade the area and post a warning sign.

Answer

The most immediate priority in hazard control is to prevent employee exposure to the identified hazard. Barricading the area and posting a warning sign isolates the hazard and warns others, which is the first crucial step to prevent slips, trips, and falls. Investigating the source and cleaning the spill are necessary subsequent steps, but the immediate control is to prevent access.

Question 4

Which of the following is a key component of an OSHA-compliant Hazard Communication (HazCom) program on a construction site?

Accepted Answer

Ensuring Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) for all hazardous chemicals are readily accessible to employees.

Answer

OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (1910.1200 and 1926.59) requires employers to maintain a written program that includes labels, Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) for all hazardous chemicals, and employee training. Making SDSs readily accessible is a fundamental right for workers and a core requirement of the standard.

Question 5

A crew is tasked with installing siding on a two-story building. The supervisor must decide on the primary method for fall protection. Applying the hierarchy of controls, what would be considered an engineering control?

Accepted Answer

Erecting scaffolding with guardrails around the work area.

Answer

Engineering controls are physical changes to the workplace that isolate people from the hazard. Scaffolding with guardrails is a physical structure that provides a barrier between the worker and the fall hazard. Personal fall arrest systems are PPE, training is an administrative control, and scheduling is also an administrative control.

(STSC) Safety Trained Supervisor Construction Practice Test

(STSC) Safety Trained Supervisor Construction Practice Test

FREE STSC Hazard Identification and Control Questions and Answers