Safety Procedures & PPE Flashcards

Which type of gloves provides the best protection when handling PVC cement and primer?

Answer: Nitrile chemical-resistant gloves

Nitrile gloves resist the chemical solvents in PVC cement and primer, unlike leather or cotton which absorb chemicals.

When trenching for underground plumbing, what is the minimum depth at which cave-in protection is required by OSHA?

Answer: 5 feet

OSHA requires protective systems for trenches 5 feet or deeper unless the excavation is in stable rock.

A plumber notices a strong rotten-egg odor while working in a crawl space. What action should be taken first?

Answer: Evacuate immediately and call the gas company

Rotten-egg odor indicates mercaptan-scented natural gas leak requiring immediate evacuation and contacting the gas utility.

What is the purpose of a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) when using power tools near water?

Answer: Trips the circuit when it detects current leakage to prevent electrocution

GFCIs detect small current leakages (as little as 5 milliamps) and interrupt power within milliseconds to prevent electrocution.

Which fall protection method is required for plumbing work performed at heights of 6 feet or more in construction?

Answer: Guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems

OSHA 1926.502 requires guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems for construction work at 6 feet or above.

What is the correct angle for positioning an extension ladder to ensure stability?

Answer: 1:4 ratio (75 degrees)

The 1:4 ratio (1 foot out for every 4 feet of height) creates approximately a 75-degree angle, the safe standard for extension ladders.

When must a safety data sheet (SDS) be available on a plumbing job site?

Answer: At all times when hazardous chemicals are in use or stored on site

OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) requires SDS documents to be readily accessible whenever hazardous chemicals are present.