SSSTS Site Inductions — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of a site induction on a construction site?
- To check that workers have the right tools
- To inform workers of site-specific hazards, emergency procedures, site rules, and welfare arrangements before they start work (Correct answer)
- To negotiate pay rates with workers
- To assign workers to their accommodation
Correct answer: To inform workers of site-specific hazards, emergency procedures, site rules, and welfare arrangements before they start work
A site induction ensures that every worker understands the specific hazards on the site, the emergency procedures (fire, first aid, evacuation), the site rules (PPE, traffic routes, restricted areas), welfare arrangements, and the reporting procedures before they begin any work.
Question 2: Who should receive a site induction under CDM 2015?
- Only new employees of the principal contractor
- Every person who will work on or regularly visit the site, including subcontractors, delivery drivers, and visitors (Correct answer)
- Only workers who have never been on a construction site before
- Only management staff
Correct answer: Every person who will work on or regularly visit the site, including subcontractors, delivery drivers, and visitors
Under CDM 2015, everyone who will work on or regularly visit the site must receive an appropriate induction. This includes all workers (regardless of employer), subcontractors, delivery drivers, visitors, client representatives, and any other person who enters the working areas of the site.
Question 3: What should be covered in the emergency procedures section of a site induction?
- Only the location of the nearest hospital
- The fire alarm signal, assembly points, evacuation routes, first aid arrangements, location of emergency equipment, and the procedure for reporting emergencies (Correct answer)
- Only the site manager's phone number
- Emergency procedures are not covered in inductions
Correct answer: The fire alarm signal, assembly points, evacuation routes, first aid arrangements, location of emergency equipment, and the procedure for reporting emergencies
The emergency section should cover: how the alarm is raised (siren, horn, radio), evacuation routes and assembly points, first aid locations and trained first aiders, fire extinguisher locations, spill kit locations, procedures for reporting emergencies, and rescue arrangements for work at height or in confined spaces.
Question 4: How should a site induction be documented?
- Documentation is not necessary
- A signed register should record each worker's name, employer, CSCS card number, date of induction, and confirmation they understood the content (Correct answer)
- Only the worker's name needs to be recorded
- A verbal confirmation from the supervisor is sufficient
Correct answer: A signed register should record each worker's name, employer, CSCS card number, date of induction, and confirmation they understood the content
Site induction records should include: the worker's full name, their employer/company, CSCS card details, date of induction, the topics covered, and the worker's signature confirming attendance and understanding. These records provide evidence of compliance and may be needed during HSE investigations.
Question 5: A worker arrives on site with an expired CSCS card. What should the supervisor do during the induction process?
- Allow them to start work as the card is just a formality
- Refuse site access until a valid CSCS card is presented, as it demonstrates the worker's competence and health and safety awareness (Correct answer)
- Allow them to work in low-risk areas only
- Ask them to apply for a new card while they work
Correct answer: Refuse site access until a valid CSCS card is presented, as it demonstrates the worker's competence and health and safety awareness
The CSCS card demonstrates that the holder has the appropriate training, qualifications, and health and safety awareness for their role. An expired card means these may not be current. The supervisor should refuse access and advise the worker to renew their card before returning to site.
Question 6: What site-specific information should be highlighted during an induction if the site is adjacent to a live railway line?
- No special information is needed
- The specific hazards of working near the railway (electrocution, train movements), exclusion zones, Network Rail requirements, and any additional PPE or lookout arrangements (Correct answer)
- Only that workers should be careful
- Only the train timetable
Correct answer: The specific hazards of working near the railway (electrocution, train movements), exclusion zones, Network Rail requirements, and any additional PPE or lookout arrangements
Working adjacent to a live railway presents specific hazards including electrocution from overhead lines or third rail, being struck by trains, and working within Network Rail's safety requirements. The induction must cover exclusion zones, hi-vis requirements, lookout arrangements, and Network Rail's specific protocols.
SSSTS Site Inductions
What is the primary purpose of a site induction on a construction site?