PC Safety Procedures & PPE 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When working in a confined space with potential gas buildup, which atmospheric condition requires immediate evacuation?
- Oxygen level at 21%
- Oxygen level below 19.5% (Correct answer)
- Carbon dioxide at 0.04%
- Humidity above 60%
Correct answer: Oxygen level below 19.5%
OSHA defines oxygen-deficient atmosphere as below 19.5%, requiring immediate evacuation and supplied-air respirators.
Question 2: Which type of respirator is required when soldering copper pipes in an enclosed space with inadequate ventilation?
- Dust mask (N95)
- Half-face air-purifying respirator with organic vapor cartridge (Correct answer)
- Simple surgical mask
- No respirator is needed for soldering
Correct answer: Half-face air-purifying respirator with organic vapor cartridge
Soldering flux fumes contain harmful organic vapors that require an air-purifying respirator with organic vapor cartridges.
Question 3: A plumber is about to cut into a wall in a pre-1978 building. What hazard must be assessed first?
- Mold contamination
- Asbestos or lead paint (Correct answer)
- Electrical wiring
- Structural integrity
Correct answer: Asbestos or lead paint
Buildings constructed before 1978 may contain lead-based paint and asbestos insulation, requiring assessment before any disturbance.
Question 4: What is the correct procedure when a plumber's clothing catches fire while using a torch?
- Run to find water
- Stop, drop, and roll (Correct answer)
- Remove the clothing immediately
- Fan the flames to extinguish them
Correct answer: Stop, drop, and roll
Stop, drop, and roll smothers flames by cutting off oxygen; running fans the fire and spreads it.
Question 5: Which safety device must be used when soldering or brazing near combustible materials like wood framing?
- Fire blanket or heat shield (Correct answer)
- Spray bottle of water
- Standard work gloves
- Safety glasses only
Correct answer: Fire blanket or heat shield
A fire blanket or heat shield protects combustible framing from torch heat and prevents structure fires.
Question 6: How should a plumber safely handle a pressurized pipe that needs to be cut?
- Cut quickly to minimize exposure
- Depressurize and drain the line before cutting (Correct answer)
- Wear extra gloves and cut slowly
- Use a larger pipe cutter for control
Correct answer: Depressurize and drain the line before cutting
Lines must be fully depressurized and drained before cutting to prevent sudden release of water, steam, or gas.
Question 7: What class of fire extinguisher should be accessible when performing gas line work?
- Class A
- Class B (Correct answer)
- Class C
- Class D
Correct answer: Class B
Class B extinguishers are designed for flammable liquid and gas fires, making them appropriate for gas line work.
PC Safety Procedures & PPE 2
When working in a confined space with potential gas buildup, which atmospheric condition requires immediate evacuation?