SSSTS Induction Training & Young Workers 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What welfare facilities must be available on a construction site according to CDM 2015 Schedule 2?
- Sanitary conveniences, washing facilities (with hot and cold water), drinking water, rest facilities with means to heat food and boil water, changing and drying facilities (Correct answer)
- Only a portable toilet and a tap
- Only a rest area with seating
- Only washing facilities
Correct answer: Sanitary conveniences, washing facilities (with hot and cold water), drinking water, rest facilities with means to heat food and boil water, changing and drying facilities
CDM 2015 Schedule 2 requires: adequate sanitary conveniences (toilets), washing facilities with hot and cold water, soap and drying facilities, drinking water, rest areas where food and drink can be prepared and heated, and facilities for changing and storing work clothes.
Question 2: What is the induction requirement for a worker who transfers from one part of a large site to a different area with different hazards?
- They should receive a briefing or area-specific induction covering the specific hazards of the new work area before starting work there (Correct answer)
- The site-wide induction they received on arrival is sufficient for all parts of the site
- A transfer induction is only required if the worker is from a different employer
- No additional induction is required as the site rules apply to the whole site
Correct answer: They should receive a briefing or area-specific induction covering the specific hazards of the new work area before starting work there
Workers moving to an area with different hazards should receive a supplementary briefing covering the specific risks of that area. While the original site induction covers general site-wide hazards, area-specific hazards (e.g., a confined space or complex lifting operation) require specific briefing.
Question 3: Under the Working Time Regulations 1998, what is the maximum weekly working time limit for young workers (under 18)?
- 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week (Correct answer)
- 48 hours per week with an opt-out
- 12 hours per day
- 60 hours per week
Correct answer: 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week
Under the Working Time Regulations 1998, young workers (under 18) must not work more than 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week. Unlike adult workers, young workers cannot opt out of this limit. They also have enhanced rest break entitlements.
Question 4: What is a supervisor's duty regarding young workers and hazardous substances on site?
- To ensure young workers are not exposed to substances for which a specific prohibition applies under the risk assessment, and to provide clear instruction on all substances they may encounter (Correct answer)
- To allow young workers to use all substances with standard adult PPE
- To treat young workers identically to adults regarding hazardous substances
- Young workers may not be excluded from hazardous substance work unless under 16
Correct answer: To ensure young workers are not exposed to substances for which a specific prohibition applies under the risk assessment, and to provide clear instruction on all substances they may encounter
Young workers must not be exposed to hazardous substances where the risk assessment identifies a specific risk to them due to their development. For other substances they may use, they must be given clear instruction, appropriate training and supervised use.
Question 5: What information should a site induction specifically cover for new workers who are unfamiliar with construction sites?
- The types of plant and vehicles they may encounter, no-go areas, overhead hazard zones, excavation exclusion zones, and how to respond if they see an unsafe act (Correct answer)
- Only the site's commercial programme
- The procurement process for materials
- The payment and expense process
Correct answer: The types of plant and vehicles they may encounter, no-go areas, overhead hazard zones, excavation exclusion zones, and how to respond if they see an unsafe act
New workers unfamiliar with construction sites must understand the site's vehicle and plant movements, zones where they must not go, overhead hazards (cranes, working at height activities), excavation risks, and how to raise safety concerns. These are the hazards most likely to harm inexperienced persons.
Question 6: What does the term 'new and expectant mothers' mean in the context of health and safety on construction sites?
- Pregnant workers, workers who have given birth within the past six months, and workers who are breastfeeding; all have additional legal protection under health and safety legislation (Correct answer)
- Only workers who are visibly pregnant
- Only workers who have notified their employer of their pregnancy in writing
- Only workers within the first trimester of pregnancy
Correct answer: Pregnant workers, workers who have given birth within the past six months, and workers who are breastfeeding; all have additional legal protection under health and safety legislation
New and expectant mothers include those who are pregnant, have given birth within the last six months, or are breastfeeding. Employers must carry out a specific risk assessment for these workers and take appropriate action to remove or control risks to their health and their baby's health.
SSSTS Induction Training & Young Workers 3
What welfare facilities must be available on a construction site according to CDM 2015 Schedule 2?