PTS PTS - Personal Track Safety Risk Assessment and Method Statements 5

Question 1

A method statement requires workers to operate within 1 meter of an open line. Visibility is reduced to less than the required warning distance due to fog. What should the PICOP do?

Accepted Answer

Suspend work until visibility is sufficient to provide the required warning time

Answer

If warning distances cannot be achieved due to reduced visibility, the safe system of work cannot be maintained and work must be suspended until conditions improve.

Question 2

Which element is MANDATORY in every PTS method statement regardless of the complexity of the task?

Accepted Answer

The emergency and evacuation procedures for all workers on site

Answer

Emergency and evacuation procedures must be included in every method statement so that all workers know exactly what to do if a dangerous situation arises.

Question 3

A risk matrix scores a hazard as likelihood 2 (unlikely) and severity 4 (major). What score does this produce and how should it generally be treated?

Accepted Answer

Score 8 — requires additional controls and management review before work proceeds

Answer

A likelihood × severity score of 8 (2 × 4) typically falls in the medium-high band, requiring enhanced controls and formal management sign-off before the work is authorized.

Question 4

A new worker joins the gang after the method statement briefing has taken place. What MUST occur before they start work?

Accepted Answer

The worker must receive a full briefing on the method statement and sign to confirm understanding

Answer

Every individual working under a method statement must receive a documented briefing and sign to confirm they understand the hazards, controls, and emergency procedures before starting work.

Question 5

Under PTS rules, who is authorized to perform the risk assessment for a work activity that requires a line blockage on a busy mainline route?

Accepted Answer

A competent person with appropriate qualifications, experience, and knowledge of the specific site and task

Answer

Risk assessments must be produced by a person who is competent — combining the right qualifications, relevant experience, and task-specific site knowledge — not simply anyone holding a PTS card.

PTS - Personal Track Safety Practice Test

PTS - Personal Track Safety Practice Test

PTS PTS - Personal Track Safety Risk Assessment and Method Statements 5