Equipment and Tools Knowledge Flashcards
7 cards from real SMSTS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Equipment and Tools Knowledge flashcards as text
Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is caused by prolonged use of vibrating tools. Which tool category typically presents the greatest risk?
Answer: Petrol-powered concrete breakers used daily
Petrol-powered concrete breakers produce high-magnitude vibration and are used for extended periods, maximizing HAVS exposure.
Under the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005, what is the daily Exposure Action Value (EAV) for hand-arm vibration?
Answer: 2.5 m/s²
The EAV for hand-arm vibration is 2.5 m/s² A(8), above which employers must take action to reduce exposure.
A grinder disc shatters during use. Which of the following would most likely have prevented this?
Answer: Checking the disc's maximum RPM matches or exceeds the grinder's no-load speed
Using a disc with a maximum RPM lower than the grinder's speed causes over-spinning, leading to disc failure and fragmentation.
What is the function of a residual current device (RCD) on a construction site?
Answer: It disconnects the circuit within milliseconds if a fault current is detected
An RCD detects current imbalance caused by earth faults and disconnects power in milliseconds, preventing electrocution.
A forklift truck is to be used on a public road to move materials between two site compounds. What is required?
Answer: The vehicle must be road registered, insured, and the driver must hold a valid driving licence
Using a forklift on a public road requires road registration, insurance, and a valid driving licence as it becomes a road vehicle under the Road Traffic Act.
Which PPE is specifically required when using a disc cutter to cut concrete or masonry?
Answer: Face shield, hearing protection, and respiratory protection against silica dust
Disc cutting of concrete generates high noise levels, sparks, and respirable crystalline silica dust, requiring face, hearing, and respiratory protection.
When must a lifting plan be reviewed and updated before a crane lift proceeds?
Answer: When site conditions, loads, or environmental factors change significantly from those in the original plan
A lifting plan must be reviewed whenever changed conditions—such as ground conditions, load weight, or weather—differ materially from the plan's assumptions.