PASMA Tower Scaffold Operator Assessment — Questions and Answers

Question 1: What precaution should be taken when using a tower scaffold on a flat roof?

Only check for leaks
Flat roofs are always safe for towers
Flat roofs eliminate all fall risks
The roof's structural capacity must be checked, edge protection must be in place, and the tower's proximity to roof edges must be controlled (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The roof's structural capacity must be checked, edge protection must be in place, and the tower's proximity to roof edges must be controlled

Flat roofs may not be designed to support the concentrated loads of a tower scaffold. The roof edge presents a fall risk if the tower is positioned near it. The roof surface may be fragile (skylights) or slippery. A structural assessment and edge protection are essential.

Question 2: What precaution is needed when using a tower scaffold in a car park?

Vehicle collision risk requires physical barriers, the surface may have slopes for drainage, and oil/fuel spills can make surfaces slippery (Correct answer)
Only parking restrictions matter
Car parks are ideal locations with no concerns
Use the tower as a height marker for vehicles

Correct answer: Vehicle collision risk requires physical barriers, the surface may have slopes for drainage, and oil/fuel spills can make surfaces slippery

Car parks present vehicle collision risks (distracted drivers), drainage slopes that affect tower levelness, oil and fuel spills creating slip hazards, speed bumps causing movement problems, and limited visibility at corners. Barriers and traffic management are essential.

Question 3: What additional precaution does WAHR 2005 require near fragile surfaces?

Only a verbal warning is required
Prominent warning notices must be displayed and measures taken to prevent falls through the surface (Correct answer)
Work near fragile surfaces is always prohibited
Fragile surfaces must be replaced before any work begins

Correct answer: Prominent warning notices must be displayed and measures taken to prevent falls through the surface

Regulation 9 requires that no person goes onto or near a fragile surface unless it is the only practicable option. Warning notices must be displayed, and platforms, coverings, guard rails, or fall arrest systems must be used to prevent falls.

Question 4: What colour scheme identifies a standard first aid box in UK workplaces in accordance with BS 8599?

Red with a white cross
White with a red cross
Yellow with a green cross
Green with a white cross (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Green with a white cross

In UK workplaces, first aid boxes conforming to BS 8599 are green with a white cross, distinguishing them from other safety equipment containers.

Question 5: What is the maximum wind force at which a tower scaffold should be moved?

Towers should not be moved in wind conditions above Beaufort Force 4 (17 mph) (Correct answer)
Any wind speed is acceptable for moving towers
Wind does not affect moving a tower because it is on wheels
Force 8 (gale force) is the limit

Correct answer: Towers should not be moved in wind conditions above Beaufort Force 4 (17 mph)

PASMA recommends that towers should not be moved in winds exceeding Beaufort Force 4 (17 mph). During movement, the tower is particularly vulnerable because brakes are released and the tower is in motion, making it harder to control.

Question 6: What is the first thing an inspector should check when inspecting a tower scaffold?

The colour of the components
That the tower is erected on a firm, level base and the foundation is adequate (Correct answer)
The brand name of the tower
The height of the tower

Correct answer: That the tower is erected on a firm, level base and the foundation is adequate

The foundation is the starting point for any inspection as everything above depends on it. The base must be on firm, level ground capable of supporting the total load. Adjustable legs or base plates should be properly set.

Question 7: How does the number of people on the tower platform affect stability?

Each person adds weight at height, raising the centre of gravity and increasing both the vertical load and the overturning moment from their movements (Correct answer)
More people always improve stability
People improve stability because they can hold onto the guard rails
The number of people has no effect on stability

Correct answer: Each person adds weight at height, raising the centre of gravity and increasing both the vertical load and the overturning moment from their movements

Each person on the platform adds weight at height, raising the centre of gravity. Additionally, people move, shift weight, and can apply horizontal forces (leaning, reaching), all of which increase overturning moments. This is why safe working loads include personnel weight.

Question 8: What are sole boards and when should they be used?

Sole boards replace the need for castors
Sole boards are the lowest rung of the ladder
Timber boards placed under base plates on soft ground to further distribute the load and prevent sinking (Correct answer)
Sole boards are the platforms at the top of the tower

Correct answer: Timber boards placed under base plates on soft ground to further distribute the load and prevent sinking

Sole boards are timber planks (typically scaffold boards) placed under the base plates when the ground is soft, such as on grass, recently filled ground, or muddy surfaces. They further spread the load to prevent the tower from sinking unevenly.

Question 9: What environmental assessment is needed before using a tower scaffold in a heritage or listed building?

Conservation requirements may restrict where the tower can be positioned, what ground protection is needed, and what fixings can be used to avoid damage to historic fabric (Correct answer)
Only the building owner's permission is needed
Heritage status is irrelevant to scaffold safety
Heritage buildings are always structurally stronger than modern ones

Correct answer: Conservation requirements may restrict where the tower can be positioned, what ground protection is needed, and what fixings can be used to avoid damage to historic fabric

Heritage and listed buildings have legal protections (Listed Building Consent under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990). Floor loading may be limited, fixings into historic fabric may be prohibited, and ground protection must prevent damage to historic features.

Question 10: What should be checked about the castors before moving a tower to a new position?

That the castors have been removed and replaced with skids
That they are the correct colour for the site
That only the front castors are unlocked
That the brakes are released, the tower height is within the moving limit, and no persons or materials are on the tower (Correct answer)

Correct answer: That the brakes are released, the tower height is within the moving limit, and no persons or materials are on the tower

Before moving a tower, brakes must be released, the tower must be at or below the manufacturer's maximum moving height, all persons must dismount, and loose materials must be removed. The tower should be pushed at the base, not pulled from the top.

Question 11: Under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER), what must an employer ensure about tower scaffold equipment?

That it is replaced every 6 months
That it is the most expensive available
That it is suitable for use, maintained in safe condition, and used only by trained persons (Correct answer)
That it is imported from an EU country

Correct answer: That it is suitable for use, maintained in safe condition, and used only by trained persons

PUWER 1998 requires that work equipment is suitable for its intended purpose, maintained in a safe and efficient state, and used only by persons who have received adequate training and information.

Question 12: How does altitude (above sea level) affect tower scaffold use?

Altitude only matters above 3,000 metres
Higher altitudes generally mean higher wind speeds, lower temperatures, and reduced air pressure, all of which affect worker performance and tower stability (Correct answer)
Altitude has no effect
Higher altitude makes the tower lighter and safer

Correct answer: Higher altitudes generally mean higher wind speeds, lower temperatures, and reduced air pressure, all of which affect worker performance and tower stability

At higher altitudes (e.g., mountainous terrain), wind speeds tend to be higher, temperatures lower, and the reduced air density can affect breathing during physical exertion. These factors must be considered in the risk assessment for elevated work sites.

Question 13: What must an operative do if they feel unwell or dizzy while working on a tower scaffold?

Continue working and take medication later
Climb higher for fresh air
Lie down on the platform until they feel better
Stop work immediately, descend the tower safely, and report to their supervisor (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Stop work immediately, descend the tower safely, and report to their supervisor

Working at height while unwell, dizzy, or fatigued significantly increases the risk of a fall. The operative should stop work immediately, descend carefully while they are still able to, and report to their supervisor. Medical attention may be needed.

Question 14: Which of the following is NOT a recognised tower scaffold assembly method?

3T (Through The Trap)
Advance guard rail (AGR)
Cantilever projection method (Correct answer)
Traditional method

Correct answer: Cantilever projection method

The cantilever projection method is not a recognised tower scaffold assembly technique. The recognised methods are AGR, 3T, and the traditional method, though the traditional method is less favoured due to the period of unprotected working.

Question 15: What is 'suspension trauma' and why is it relevant to WAHR 2005?

A potentially fatal condition that occurs when a person is suspended motionless in a harness, causing blood pooling in the legs (Correct answer)
A fear of heights
A legal term for delayed prosecution
A type of scaffold connection failure

Correct answer: A potentially fatal condition that occurs when a person is suspended motionless in a harness, causing blood pooling in the legs

Suspension trauma (orthostatic intolerance) can occur when a person is left hanging in a harness after a fall. Blood pools in the legs, reducing circulation to vital organs, and can be fatal within 20-30 minutes. This is why rescue plans with prompt response times are critical.

Question 16: When inspecting a tower scaffold used for extended periods, what additional consideration applies?

Increased frequency of checks for wear, fatigue, corrosion, and loosening of components due to prolonged use and repeated loading (Correct answer)
Long-term use requires no additional inspection considerations
The tower should be painted every month
Inspection intervals can be extended to monthly

Correct answer: Increased frequency of checks for wear, fatigue, corrosion, and loosening of components due to prolonged use and repeated loading

Towers in long-term use are subject to cumulative wear, metal fatigue, progressive corrosion (especially outdoors), and gradual loosening of components. Inspection frequency and detail should reflect these additional risks, potentially exceeding the minimum 7-day interval.

Question 17: What is the purpose of horizontal braces (ledgers) in a tower scaffold?

To provide a place to hang tools
To support advertising banners
To act as a ladder for climbing
To provide lateral stability and maintain frame spacing (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To provide lateral stability and maintain frame spacing

Horizontal braces connect the two frames together, maintaining the correct spacing and providing lateral stability. Without them, the tower would be prone to racking and collapse.

Question 18: What is a scaffold tag system and how does it relate to inspections?

A tagging game played during lunch breaks
A barcode system for tracking tower sales
A system for naming each tower after a colour
A colour-coded tag or card system attached to the tower indicating its inspection status (safe to use, not safe, under assembly) (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A colour-coded tag or card system attached to the tower indicating its inspection status (safe to use, not safe, under assembly)

Scaffold tag systems (such as SCAFFTAG) use colour-coded tags or cards attached to the scaffold to clearly communicate its current status: green (inspected, safe to use), red (do not use), or other colours indicating it is under assembly or modification.

Question 19: What must an employer do if work at height cannot be avoided?

Only carry out the work during daylight hours
Use work equipment or other measures to prevent falls, and if prevention is not possible, minimise fall distance and consequences (Correct answer)
Outsource the work to a subcontractor to transfer the risk
Accept the risk and proceed

Correct answer: Use work equipment or other measures to prevent falls, and if prevention is not possible, minimise fall distance and consequences

If work at height cannot be avoided, the employer must use equipment or measures to prevent falls (e.g., guard rails, platforms). If falls cannot be entirely prevented, measures must minimise the distance and consequences of any fall (e.g., nets, airbags).

Question 20: What does Regulation 6 of WAHR 2005 require regarding avoiding work at height?

All work at height must be avoided at all times
Work at height can never be avoided on construction sites
Work at height must be avoided so far as is reasonably practicable (Correct answer)
Regulation 6 does not address avoidance

Correct answer: Work at height must be avoided so far as is reasonably practicable

Regulation 6 requires that work at height is avoided so far as is reasonably practicable. If it cannot be avoided, suitable measures must be put in place to prevent or minimise falls.

Question 21: What should be done with all tower components before assembly begins?

They should be weighed individually
They should be visually inspected for damage, corrosion, and defects (Correct answer)
They should be left in direct sunlight for sterilisation
They should be painted to prevent rust

Correct answer: They should be visually inspected for damage, corrosion, and defects

All components must be visually inspected before use. Damaged, bent, corroded, or defective parts must not be used as they compromise the structural integrity of the tower. This is a requirement under PUWER 1998.

Question 22: Under WAHR 2005, who is a 'competent person' for inspecting scaffolding?

Any person on the construction site
A person with sufficient training, experience, and knowledge to identify hazards and defects (Correct answer)
Only the tower scaffold manufacturer
Only an HSE inspector

Correct answer: A person with sufficient training, experience, and knowledge to identify hazards and defects

A competent person is someone who has adequate training, practical experience, and sufficient knowledge to identify defects and hazards. For tower scaffolds, PASMA training is the industry-recognised standard.

Question 23: During an inspection, what should be checked about the diagonal and horizontal braces?

That they are all the same length
That they are all present, correctly positioned, and securely locked into place (Correct answer)
That they are loosely fitted for flexibility
That they have been polished

Correct answer: That they are all present, correctly positioned, and securely locked into place

All braces must be present as specified in the manufacturer's instruction manual, correctly positioned (diagonals in the right pattern), and securely locked with all clips or locks fully engaged. Missing or loose braces significantly reduce stability.

Question 24: Which legislation primarily governs the requirement for emergency procedures when working at height in the UK?

The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 (Correct answer)
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015

Correct answer: The Work at Height Regulations 2005

The Work at Height Regulations 2005 specifically require employers to establish and maintain emergency procedures for all work carried out at height.

Question 25: How does fog affect the safe use of a tower scaffold?

Fog has no effect
Fog improves safety by reducing wind
Fog only affects towers above 20 metres
Fog reduces visibility, makes surfaces wet and slippery, and obscures overhead hazards and approaching vehicles (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Fog reduces visibility, makes surfaces wet and slippery, and obscures overhead hazards and approaching vehicles

Fog reduces visibility at height, making it difficult to see hazards, communicate with ground level, and judge distances. Moisture from fog makes surfaces slippery. Approaching vehicles may not see the tower. Additional lighting and high-visibility measures may be needed.

Question 26: What is the maximum wind speed at which work on a tower scaffold should generally cease?

50 mph
30 mph
10 mph
17 mph (Beaufort Force 4) (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 17 mph (Beaufort Force 4)

PASMA recommends that work ceases when wind speeds reach 17 mph (Beaufort Force 4), at which point small branches move and dust/paper is raised. Tower scaffolds have large surface areas and are particularly susceptible to wind forces.

Question 27: What does WAHR 2005 say about working in adverse weather conditions at height?

Work at height must not be carried out when weather conditions could jeopardise health or safety (Correct answer)
Weather conditions are not mentioned in the regulations
Work can continue as long as PPE is worn
Work must stop only during thunderstorms

Correct answer: Work at height must not be carried out when weather conditions could jeopardise health or safety

Regulation 4 of WAHR 2005 requires that work at height does not take place when weather conditions (wind, rain, ice, snow) could endanger the health or safety of any person involved.

Question 28: At what Beaufort scale wind force should work on a tower scaffold cease?

Force 7 (near gale)
Force 4 (moderate breeze, 13-17 mph) (Correct answer)
Force 2 (light breeze)
Force 10 (storm)

Correct answer: Force 4 (moderate breeze, 13-17 mph)

PASMA recommends ceasing work on tower scaffolds at Beaufort Force 4 (moderate breeze, 13-17 mph), when small branches begin to move and dust and paper are raised. Tower scaffolds are lightweight and have large surface areas making them particularly wind-sensitive.

Question 29: What environmental factor must be considered when using a tower scaffold near an airport?

Airports provide excellent flat surfaces
No special considerations near airports
Height restrictions may apply, aviation warning lights may be required, and work may be subject to airfield safety regulations and permissions (Correct answer)
Only noise from aircraft matters

Correct answer: Height restrictions may apply, aviation warning lights may be required, and work may be subject to airfield safety regulations and permissions

Near airports, height restrictions protect flight paths. Tall structures may require aviation warning lights (red lights at night) and notification to the Civil Aviation Authority. Airfield safety regulations may restrict when and where work can take place.

Question 30: Which schedule of WAHR 2005 specifically covers requirements for mobile tower scaffolds?

Schedule 3
Schedule 9
Schedule 1
Schedule 6 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Schedule 6

Schedule 6 of the Work at Height Regulations 2005 sets out specific requirements for scaffolding, including mobile tower scaffolds. It covers assembly, use, inspection, and competence requirements.

Question 31: After assembly is complete, what final check must be carried out before the tower is used?

A full structural engineering survey
A pre-use inspection covering stability, levelness, brakes, guard rails, toeboards, and platform integrity (Correct answer)
No checks are needed if a trained person assembled it
A test by placing the maximum load on the platform

Correct answer: A pre-use inspection covering stability, levelness, brakes, guard rails, toeboards, and platform integrity

A thorough pre-use inspection must confirm the tower is level, plumb, all braces are fitted, guard rails and toeboards are secure, castors are locked, and the overall assembly matches the manufacturer's configuration. This is recorded on an inspection checklist.

Question 32: How should the scene of a mobile access tower accident be managed while awaiting the arrival of emergency services?

The area should be cordoned off to prevent unauthorised access while bystanders are kept calm (Correct answer)
Work on adjacent areas should continue as normal to minimise site disruption
The area should be cleared of all personnel and photographic evidence preserved
Colleagues should attempt to dismantle the tower to help reach the casualty

Correct answer: The area should be cordoned off to prevent unauthorised access while bystanders are kept calm

Cordoning off the accident scene prevents unauthorised access, protects the casualty from further harm, and prevents secondary accidents while emergency services are responding.

Question 33: What is the maximum number of people permitted on a tower scaffold platform at any one time?

As many as can fit
Always exactly two
One per square metre of platform
The number specified in the manufacturer's instruction manual, limited by the safe working load (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The number specified in the manufacturer's instruction manual, limited by the safe working load

The maximum number of people is determined by the manufacturer based on the platform size and the safe working load. Each person's weight (typically calculated at 85kg per person) plus their tools and materials must not exceed the SWL.

Question 34: How should a tower scaffold be stabilised if it needs to be used near a building opening such as a window?

No special measures are needed near buildings
Push it against the window frame for support
Rest the outriggers on the window sill
Tie the tower into the building structure using proper fixings, if recommended by the manufacturer (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Tie the tower into the building structure using proper fixings, if recommended by the manufacturer

Tying a tower into an adjacent structure using appropriate fixings (wall ties) can significantly improve stability, effectively eliminating the free-standing height limitation. This must only be done if the manufacturer approves and the structure can support the loads.

Question 35: What is the 'overturning moment' of a tower scaffold?

The weight of the tower
The tendency of the tower to tip over, calculated as the horizontal force multiplied by the height at which it acts (Correct answer)
The time between inspections
The time it takes to dismantle the tower

Correct answer: The tendency of the tower to tip over, calculated as the horizontal force multiplied by the height at which it acts

The overturning moment is the product of a horizontal force (e.g., wind) and the distance from the point of application to the tipping point (base edge). The taller the tower and greater the force, the larger the overturning moment and the greater the risk of toppling.

Question 36: What is the maximum height-to-base ratio for a mobile tower scaffold used outdoors?

2:1
3:1 (Correct answer)
3.5:1
4:1

Correct answer: 3:1

For outdoor use, the maximum height-to-base ratio is 3:1, meaning the tower height must not exceed three times the narrowest base dimension. This accounts for the additional wind loading that occurs outdoors.

Question 37: Under WAHR 2005, what must an employer ensure about the place where work at height is performed?

That it is above 4 metres from ground level
That it is painted a bright colour
That it has CCTV coverage
That it is safe, stable, of sufficient dimensions, and with suitable conditions (Correct answer)

Correct answer: That it is safe, stable, of sufficient dimensions, and with suitable conditions

Every place of work at height must be stable, have sufficient strength for the purpose, have a suitable surface, be of sufficient dimensions to allow safe passage and working, and have suitable environmental conditions.

Question 38: What should an operative do if they discover the tower scaffold has been left with castor brakes unlocked?

Climb the tower anyway
Ignore it if the tower has not moved
Unlock the remaining brakes so all are consistent
Lock the brakes immediately, inspect the tower for any movement or displacement, and report the breach of procedure (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Lock the brakes immediately, inspect the tower for any movement or displacement, and report the breach of procedure

Unlocked brakes mean the tower may have moved since the last inspection, potentially onto uneven ground or into contact with hazards. Lock the brakes immediately, check the tower has not been displaced, and report the safety breach for investigation.

Question 39: What is the risk of using a tower scaffold in direct strong sunlight?

Sunlight strengthens the aluminium
UV light sanitises the tower
No risks from sunlight
Heat exhaustion and dehydration of operatives, thermal expansion of metal components, and glare affecting vision (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Heat exhaustion and dehydration of operatives, thermal expansion of metal components, and glare affecting vision

Strong sunlight can cause heat exhaustion and dehydration (especially at height where there is no shade). Metal components become hot to touch. Glare can impair vision and depth perception. Adequate water, sun protection, and rest breaks must be provided.

Question 40: Why should materials not be stored on the platform overnight?

They add unnecessary weight at height, increasing wind loading and overturning risk, and could become missiles in high winds (Correct answer)
They might get stolen
They might get wet
Materials can only be stored on platforms during weekdays

Correct answer: They add unnecessary weight at height, increasing wind loading and overturning risk, and could become missiles in high winds

Leaving materials on the platform overnight adds weight at height (raising the centre of gravity) and increases the surface area exposed to wind. Loose items can become projectiles in strong winds, endangering people below.

PASMA Tower Scaffold Operator Assessment

The PASMA (Prefabricated Access Suppliers' and Manufacturers' Association) Tower Scaffold Operator card scheme assessment tests knowledge of safe tower scaffold assembly, inspection, working at height regulations, stability, outriggers, and environmental considerations.

Questions

45 min

Time Limit

75%

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