NGC1 Element 5 Risk Assessment

On completion of this element, readers should be able to demonstrate understanding of the content through the application of knowledge to familiar and unfamiliar situations. In particular they should be able to:

5.1 Explain the aims and objectives of risk assessment

5.2 Identify hazards by means of workplace inspection and analysis of tasks

5.3 Explain the principles and practice of risk assessment.

5.1 Aims and objectives

Definitions of Hazard and Risk

Risk assessment is one of the main methods by which pro-active safety management can be carried out. lt is also a statutory requirement under a considerable number of new U.K. Regulations.

The principal requirements are to:

• Identify hazards i.e. anything, which has the inherent ability to cause harm

A hazard can be animal, vegetable, mineral or abstract! lt is quantifiable from extr mely hazardous to slightly hazardous

• Assess the risks associated with each hazard

Risk is the possibility of exposure to a hazard. It is often measured as:Degree of Hazard x Probability of Exposure

Objective of risk assessment

The objective of carrying out risk assessments is to reduce, so far as is reasonably practicable, the significant risks associated with hazards in work tasks and work places to tolerable levels in terms of the potential human suffering, legal requirements and economic effects on the organisation.

The distinction between different types of risks can be broadly identified as being in four main categories:

• Immediate physical injury (acute) Examples are:

Broken bones (falls), crushing (caught in machine) head injury (falling objects), burst ear drum(extremely loud noise), loss of sight (welder's flash), burns (fire or hot surfaces)

• Long -term physical injury (chronic) Examples are:

Back strain (manual handling), joint or muscular problems (body movement), arthritic conditions(dampness), white finger (vibration)

• Immediate health problems (acute) Examples are:

  Overcome by fumes (ammonia), poisoned (cyanide)

• Long-term health problems (chronic) Examples are:

Asbestosis (asbestos dust), cancer (working with carcinogens), stress (working above capacity or capability)

Remember that the people at risk can be employees (both as a direct result of their work or as a result of the work of others), contractors, visitors, local environs, or carriers, purchasers or users of products or services.

Common Definitions:

Accident	means	An unplanned event in a series of planned events
Hazard	means	Something with the inherent ability to cause harm
Risk	means	The possibility of exposure to a hazard Often measured as: Degree of hazard x Probability of exposure
Danger	exists	Where there is a distinct possibility of an interchange of energy above tolerable levels
Significant risk	means	A risk that has been clearly increased as a result of a work activity
Statutory risk	means	Risks which have the ability to impinge upon the wellbeing of people (Controlled by legislation)
Emergency planning	means	Pro-active planning to deal immediately with a situation which has the ability to threaten the wellbeing of people or the corporate body
Contingency planning	means	Pro-active planning to deal with the effects of a disaster that could, without planning, affect the ability of the organization to continue trading
Slow injury	means	An injury or health problem which develops over a period of time cumulatively
Casual event	means	An event which in itself is not necessarily dangerous but when present along with other causal events could lead to an accident of any magnitude from a near miss to a catastrophe
Near miss	means	Near miss means An incident that could have resulted in serious injury. For example a brick falling from a height but not hitting anyone

5.2 Identifying hazards

The competent person

The perceived level of danger is very important in making a risk assessment, therefore it is important that the person(s) carrying out such assessments have the knowledge and experience necessary to understand not only the physical aspects but also the behavioral aspects that could lead to an accident. They must also appreciate the worst and/or likely consequences of such an event.

The person(s) carrying out an assessment should be considered by the employer/organisation to be competent before being commissioned to carry out the task, i.e. competent in that they have the ability that ensures their perceived level of danger is at, or is very close to, the actual danger level.

If necessary persons charged with carrying out assessments should be given adequate information, instruction and training to be deemed competent to carry out risk assessments.

Competent person(s) Should have the academic qualifications and experience necessary to allow them to: firstly, know what to look for, secondly recognise it when they see it and assess its importance with regards to the degree of risk associated with the location and/or activity

Categories of accidents are incidents that can cause:

• Immediate injuries such as broken bones, loss of a limb etc.
• Cumulative or slow injuries such as back problems or eye-strain etc.
• Immediate (acute) health problems such as inhaling a poisonous gas or severe burns
• Cumulative (slow) health problems such as asbestosis or hearing loss
• Psychological problems (can be inherent or cumulative) such as fear of heights or stress

lt is important in identifying the level of risk that information is obtained from a number of sources such as Approved Codes of Practice and Guidance Notes etc.

5.3 . Principles and practice of risk assessment

In order to carry out a risk assessment it is important to identify the persons at risk other than merely employees e.g. operatives, maintenance or cleaning personnel etc., members of the public, contractors or persons with special needs.

The objective of risk assessment is to proactively identify risks in terms of human suffering and take preventive and/or precautionary measures to eliminate, reduce or control the possibility of harm to individuals.

Risk assessments can also protect the organisation (employer) from harm in terms of lost production, reputation, industrial and public relations and possible prosecutions or claims for damages etc.

Types of assessment

There are two ways of carrying out risk assessments:

1. Qualitative type assessment

This type of assessment that is based subjectively on general information, experience and intuition is much simpler to make and is adequate for the vast majority of work situations. lt is also legally acceptable. Where there are similarities in activities, a generic risk assessment would be acceptable.

Qualitative Risk Assessments can be based upon:

• A geographical area of work e.g. an office or warehouse, etc
• A generic group of workers e.g. scaffolders,fork lift truck drivers, etc
• A generic type of work e.g. welding, manual handling, etc.,
• The specific needs of individual workers or individuals.

In low risk environments and tasks it may be sufficient to categorise risks as High, Medium or Low.

2. Quantitative risk assessment

This type of assessment will only be required where there are risks of a high unacceptable nature such as those that could lead to immediate serious consequences, or risks that are cumulative (long term) in nature.

The following method can be used to conduct a quantitative risk assessment:

In deciding whether the risks associated with the hazards are being adequately controlled or whether more could be done, two factors must be taken into account in carrying out a quantitative assessment. These are the severity rating of the hazard and the probability of exposure to the
hazard. These can be produced in a risk-ranking chart.

Severity rating of hazard Value

Catastrophic	5
Serious	4
Fairly serious	3
Marginal	2
Negligible	1

Probability rating of exposure to hazard

Imminent	5
Probable	4
Reasonably probable	3
Remote	2
Extremely remote	1

Risk analysis chart

Severity rating	1	2	3	4	5
	2	4	6	8	10
	3	6	9	12	15
	4	8	12	16	20
	5	10	15	20	25
	Probability rating

In using a risk analysis chart the assessors should determine a rating on the basis of the existing precautions in place. Note that personal protective equipment should only be used as a last resort.

The Risk Value would equal Severity x Probability. Where a Risk Value of 25 would be critical and demand immediate action and a value of 1 would require no action. Assessors then require making a
judgment as to what numerical value of risk would require further attention.

As an example, perhaps a risk ranking of 8 or more would be acceptable providing all reasonably practicable precautions are in place or are being recommended and implemented.

JOB SAFETY ANALYSIS

Job safety analysis (JSA) is an accident prevention technique that is similar to work-study and can be used as a basis for carrying out a risk assessment. lt involves a chronological breakdown of an activity to determine if there are ways in which the potential for an accident can be reduced.

The method is to:
Select - the work to be studied

Record - how the work is done

Evaluate - all the various consequences

Develop - the best method of doing the job Install - the method as developed

Maintain - the methodology

Monitor -the effectiveness of the method

HSE GUIDANCE

The Health and Safety Executive free leaflet '5 Steps to Risk Assessment' describes the process as containing five distinct steps. These are:

Step 1 Look for the hazards

In carrying out the assessment it is important to look at what could reasonably be expected to cause harm. Ignore the trivia and concentrate on significant hazards that could cause serious harm to one or more people. Speak to the people carrying out the work activity under review; they may identify hazards not patently obvious to you. Manufacturer's manuals, data-sheets, accident and health records can also help spot hazards and put risks into perspective.

Step 2 Decide who may be harmed

As well as operatives there are other people who can be adversely affected such as cleaners, visitors, contractors, maintenance personnel etc. Include members of the public or other people who share the workplace with your organisation.

Identify the hazards associated with the task and decide whether the existing precautions are adequate or whether more could and should be done.

Sources of potential harm can be associated with the working environment in which the work will be carried out or associated with the work activity. These sources could arise from:

• Unsafe conditions of buildings or site conditions, overcrowding, working at heights or in confined spaces
• Unsafe utility such as electricity, gas, pneumatics, hydraulics, water, lighting
• Hazardous chemical or biological agents
• The unsafe work of other persons
• Unsafe plant, machinery or tools
• Internal transport
• Human frailties such as incompetence, negligence, tiredness, forgetfulness, stress, special needs
• Lack of training
• Poor ergonomics
• Unsafe systems of work
• Fire and/or explosion
• Violence and/or working alone

Step 4 Record the findings

If an organisation has less than five employees they do not need to record the findings, however where they have five or more employees the significant findings of assessments must be recorded. This means writing down the most significant hazards and recording your conclusions. For example dust from the•grinding wheels is removed by an adequate well-maintained LEV system.

There is no need to show how the assessment was completed provided you can demonstrate a proper check was carried out, identifying who could be affected and that you have dealt with all of the significant hazards taking account of the numbers of people who could be involved.

Assessments need to be suitable and sufficient, not perfect.

The written assessments must be made known to, and be available for perusal by all personnel involved and must also be available for inspection by the HSE or other enforcement bodies.

Step 5 Reviewing assessments

Assessments must be reviewed where there are changes that may affect the validity of the assessment. For example:

• Changes in premises or layout
• New or updated types of machinery
• New or different substances or processes
• Changes in skills of operatives, or shift patterns

Do not amend assessments for every trivial change

The idea is to keep the system of risk assessments as simple as possible but not too simple.

The methodology used to carry out a risk assessment must be 'Suitable and Sufficient' taking into account the degree of danger involved in the activity being assessed. Assessments need to be suitable and sufficient, not perfect.

Special consideration is required for work conducted by:

• Children (Under 16 years of age) or young persons {16 to 18 years of age)
• Expectant or nursing mothers
• Lone, casual or contracted workers
• Impaired or disabled persons

Sources of reference

The Management of Health and Safety at Work (ACOP) (L21) HSE Books

Young Persons at Work (HSG165) HSE Books

Relevant statutory provisions
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

Typical examination questions based on Element 1.5

1		Outline the factors that should be considered in carrying out a risk assessment as required by the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.	(8)
2	(a)	Identify the key stages of a workplace risk assessment.	(5)
	(b)	Outline THREE circumstances that might require a risk assessment to be reviewed	(3)
3	(a)	In relation to risk assessments as required by the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, explain the meaning of the term 'suitable and sufficient'	(2)
	(b)	Outline the changes in circumstances that may require a risk assessment to be reviewed.	(6)
4	(a)	Explain using an example, the meaning of the term 'risk'.	(2)
	(b)	Outline the factors that should be considered when selecting individuals to assist in carrying out risk assessments in a workplace.	(6)

Past Exam Papers

December 2005 A2               December 2005 A1

December 2006 A1               December 2006 A2

NCC1 2007                           NCC1 Dec 2007                      NGC1 Dec 2007

Past Exam Paper INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATE IN CONSTRUCTION

INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATE IN CONSTRUCTION HEALTH AND SAFETY
UNIT ICC1: MANAGING AND CONTROLLING HAZARDS IN INTERNATIONAL CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES

Download available from http://www.nebosh.org.uk/shop

Typical Examination Questions based on Element 8

``1.	Outline the factors that may affect the efficiency of a local exhaust ventilation (LEV) system.	(8)
	Factors can include: Blocked filters. Hood placed too far from source of contaminant. Lack of maintenance and testing. Unauthorised alterations. Wear or corrosion of fan blades. Incorrect settings. System overwhelmed by increase in contaminant. Inadequate design
2.	Identify the information that should be included on a hazard data sheet supplied with a hazardous substance.	(8)
	Information should include: The name of the substance. It's chemical properties and composition. The nature of hazards. Relevant standards (e.g. Occupational exposure limits). Precautions to be observed in its transport, handling and use. Measures to take in an emergency (e.g. spillage or accidental exposure) including first-aid treatment and disposal requirements.
3.	a) List the elements of a hierarchy for the control of airborne contaminant (b) Outline TWO reasons why a cartridge-type respirator may in practice fail to provide a sufficient level of protection.	(6) (2)
	Control measures in correct order of use are: Elimination of the substance or its substitution with something less harmful. Possibility of reducing exposure by introducing changes in working methods (e.g. use of brush instead of spray or, pellets instead of dust), or to work patterns. Segregation or enclosure of the process and provision of LEV). Lastly, the provision of PPE. Reasons include: Poor fit of the respirator, either because of the use of other PPE at the same time or facial hair. The use of incorrect cartridge. The cartridge not being properly fitted. Failure to change the cartridge at appropriate intervals. Inadequate storage facilities leading to respirator being damaged or contaminated.
4.	(a) Describe the typical symptoms of occupational dermatitis. (b)State the factors that could affect the likelihood of dermatitis occurring in workers handling dermatitic substances. (6)	(2) (6)
	Symptoms are reddening, blistering and cracking of the skin with a possibility of infection and ulceration. Factors include; the nature of the agent, concentration levels and the duration and frequency of exposure when dermatitis substances are handled. Additional factors that could increase the risks include cuts and abrasions that would allow the chemical to be absorbed more readily. Existing skin conditions, the type of skin and its sensitivity, the specific site of skin contact, poor personal hygiene and the misuse of protective measures are other factors
5.	Outline the Factors to be considered in the selection of respiratory equipment for persons carrying out welding activities
	Factors to be considered include: The nature and concentration of contaminants released from the welding process. The material to be welded including any surface coatings (eg lead paint) and the constituents of the filler materials must all be assessed. Once this has been done a range of suitable respiratory protective equipment that would offer adequate protection can be considered. In doing so consideration would be given to the compatibility of the equipment with the work to be done and any other PPE, ergonomic considerations (Bulkiness, comfort etc.), the level of training required, the duration and use, the ease of maintenance and the costs
6.	(a) Define the term 'target organ' within the context of occupational health. (b) Outline the personal hygiene practices that should be followed to reduce the risk of ingestion of a hazardous substance.	(2) (6)
	(a)Target organs are , the organs of the human body upon which a toxic material exerts it effort. (b) Personal hygiene practices would include, washing hands before eating , the avoidance of eating or drinking and smoking in the workplace, utilising facilities for contaminated clothing, appropriate use of gloves and avoiding hand to mouth contact

Typical Examination Questions based on Element 7

1.	(a) Explain the methods of heat transfer that can cause the spread of fire. (b) Outline the main requirements of a safe means of escape from a building.	(8) (12)
	(a) Methods are Conduction (e.g. through a plastic coffee cup), convection (e.g. up a chimney), radiation (e.g. from a fire) and direct burning (e.g. of any fuel such as wood) (b) Emphasis on fire resistant materials for escape route walls, ceilings and doors. Easy exit provisions with doors opening in direction of travel and self-closing. Notices identifying, and lighting of, escape routes. Good housekeeping on routes to ensure no obstacles and no flammable substances on routes. Distances form workstations into an escape route. A safe assembly point. Fire alarm and extinguisher stations on route towards safe routs.
2.	(a) Outline the main factors to be considered in the siting of fire extinguishers. (b) Outline the inspection and maintenance requirements for fire extinguishers in a workplace.	(4) (4)
	(a) Accessibility, proximity to exits, travel distances, situated at fire points, protection when required from weather or other sources of damage. (b) Inspection should be routinely carried out to ensure extinguishers are in place, have not been discharge, damaged, have pins missing or, because of a change in local conditions or work are unsuitable for the fires they are meant to deal with. Maintenance is something more extensive and usually involves annual tests by a competent person according to the manufacturer's instructions in order to ensure the integrity of the extinguisher, with the removal and replacement of equipment found faulty.
3.	List EIGHT features of a safe means of escape from a building in the event of a fire.	(8)
	Issues include; at least two escape routes available in two directions from work-areas taking account of escape distances from workplace to protected zone. The fire resistant integrity of escape routes. The ability of fire doors to be easily opened in direction of escape and to self close. The need to ensure escape routes are kept free from obstructions. Appropriate siting and marking of assembly points. Fire escape notices of the appropriate type. Lighting of escape routes. Suitability for people with special needs.
4.	(a) Outline TWO advantages and TWO disadvantages of using hose reels as a means of extinguishing fires. (b) Outline the main factors to consider in the siting of hose reels.	(4) (4)
	(a) Advantages – (i) A continuous supply of water that is of a greater force and quantity than an extinguisher has. (ii) User does not need to be close to the fire. Disadvantages – Effort required to position and use a hose, The hose can compromise smoke barriers by keeping doors ajar and water is not suitable for use on all fires. (b) Issues are; accessibility (should be on, or adjacent to, an escape route e.g. on a stairwell). Recessing where possible into walls to avoid blocking escape routes. Possible sealed hole from hose to pass from stairwell into offices etc. Positioned to give maximum coverage in terms of the length of hose, where frost will not cause the water to freeze and they will not be subject to misuse or vandalism.
5.	(a) With reference to the fire triangle, outline TWO methods of extinguishing fires. (b) State the ways in which persons can be harmed by fire in work premises.	(4) (4)
	(a) Examples: starvation (removing the fuel). Smothering (Eliminating oxygen). Cooling (pouring water on to the fire) or by interfering chemically with the combustion process. (b) Harmed by being burnt, inhaling smoke, by depleted oxygen supply, falling parts of a building or by being crushed or suffering some other injury in trying to escape.
6.	(a) Identify FOUR types of ignition sources that may lead to a fire in the workplace. (b) Outline ways of controlling each of the ignition points identified in (a).	(4) (4)
	(a) Ignition sources include: Smoking, hot work and surfaces, electricity, reactive chemicals, and arson. (b) Control could include: Smoking - ban or restriction on smoking. Hot work and surfaces -ensuring no combustible materials are in the vicinity of hot work. Electricity - ensuring no over-loading of circuits and proper care and maintenance of electrical equipment. Reactive chemicals - control through work practices and procedures including storage. Arson - having good security arrangements including restriction of strangers in building and diligent supervision.

Typical Examination Questions based on Element 6

1.	a) Describe the possible effects of electricity on the body. b) Outline FOUR factors that may affect the severity of injury from contact with electricity.	(4) (4)
	Affects such as interference with nerve/muscle action, tissue burns and cardio-respiratory effects, in particular the risk of fatal injury due to disruption of heart rhythm. As far as tissue burns are concerned, candidates should have identified as the main sites of damage the entry and exit points and warned of the possibility of damage to internal organs. Better responses included reference to secondary injuries such as head injuries caused by falls following electric shock. Factors such as the voltages involved the length of contact time, the route taken through the body, and the general health and age of the person involved. Additional factors that might affect the severity of the injury include the dryness of the skin, natural body resistance, ground conditions and the type of footwear being worn at the time.
2.	Outline the measures to be taken to minimize the risk of shock from the use of electric hand tools.	(8)
	Measures include: The use of reduced low voltage trough a transformer centre-tapped to earth The use of residual current devices or earth leakage protection. The protection and safe positioning of supply cables Using double-insulated equipment Using cordless (battery operated) equipment Ensuring the correct rating of fuses Introducing a system for routine visual inspection and testing of cables and equipment
3.	HSG65 Electricity at Work-Safe Working Practices gives guidance on the frequency of inspection for such equipment. State frequencies for the inspection and testing of electrical hand held tools and associate equipment used on a construction site and support your answers with appropriate examples.	(8)
	A hand held tool and equipment should be visually inspected before use, including cables, cord grips, casings and plugs. 230 volt equipment should be tested before first use and then at monthly intervals while a formal weekly inspection is also required. 110 volt equipment should be tested before first use and then at three monthly intervals while a formal monthly inspection is also required. Extension leads should have an initial test before first use followed and then at monthly intervals while a formal weekly inspection is also required
4.	List the items that should be included on an inspection checklist designed to ensure the safety of portable electrical hand-tools.	(8)
	Items on list could include: Equipment appropriate for the task and environment, equipment tested, plugs, connectors and cables free from damage or defect, correct wiring and sound connections, fuses and other means of preventing excess current in place and of correct rating, accessibility and appropriate means of isolation and system not overloaded.
5.	In relation to the use of electrical cables and plugs in the workplace: (i) Identify FOUR examples of faults and bad practice that could contribute to electrical accidents. (ii) Outline the corresponding precautions that should be taken for each of the examples identified in (i).	(4) (4)
	Examples include: Failure to select right equipment for the environment (armoured or heat resistant cables may be require). Incorrect rating of fuses. Ineffective or discontinuous earthing. Overload of Socket outlets. Cables unnecessarily long (or too short). The use of coiled extension leads. Poorly wired plugs (wires under tension or outer protective sheath not clamped). The use of defective cables and plugs. (ii) Precautions should have followed automatically from the deficiencies listed in (i)

Typical Examination Questions based on Element 5:- Work equipment - hazards and control

1.	A leaking underground concrete reservoir has been emptied in order that it can be visually inspected prior to its subsequent repair. Describethe health risks faced by those repairing the reservoir when pneumatic tools are to be used to remove defective concrete and epoxy resin material used to effect repairs.	(10)
	Risks from excessive noise, the possibility of hand-arm vibration syndrome, and respiratory sensitisation and dermatitis from the use of epoxy materials, musculoskeletal problems due perhaps to the constraints of the working environment or the weight of the equipment. The repair task would also give rise to the possibility of respiratory problems associated with exposure to concrete dust
2.	Hand-held electric drills are commonly used on construction sites. Other than electricity. Outline FOUR hazards associated with the use of such equipment.	(8)
	Other hazards include entanglement with chuck or bit, stabbing or puncture by the drill bit, noise, vibration, dust and hazards associated with trailing cables.
3.	On a long-term contract, joiners are working with medium density fibreboard using hand-held circular saws and portable electric planers in a temporary site unit. Explainhow you would ensure that the joiner's health is not put at risk during this activity.	(8)
	Measures that include: assessment of the levels of dust, noise and vibration; the provision of efficient dust extraction equipment or respirators with the appropriate protection factor; the provision of hearing protection and the need to manage vibration by the use of lower vibration tools or job rotation.
4.	(a) Describe when a fixed guard would be an appropriate means of providing protection against mechanical hazards. (b) Outline the features of fixed guards designed to minimise the risk of injury or ill health from dangerous parts of machinery	(2) .(6)
	(a) Appropriate when providing protection against mechanical hazards when infrequent or no access is required to dangerous parts of a machine during its normal operation. (b) Factors such as; the material of construction, which should be sufficiently robust and be able to contain any ejected material, but still allow sight of the process when required; the method of fixing, usually requiring the use of a special tool for the guards removal; the need to ensure that any necessary openings in guards are such that they do not allow access to the dangerous parts and the need to address the possibility of the guard reverberating and exacerbating a noise problem

Manual Handling Quiz

from www.healthandsafetytips.co.uk

1.	When is a manual handling risk assessment required?
	Before the task is carried out and no other option is available
2.	What are the FOUR Elements of a Manual Handling Risk Assessment?
	T…………….Task I……………..Individual L…………….Load E…………….Environment
3.	What should you do when confronted by a large or awkward load that has to be manually handled?
	Stop and assess whether there is an alternative method Assess the load to see if it can be handled safely, Ask for assistance
4.	Name 2 of an EMPLOYER'S Duties?
	Tasks should be assessed with a view to using alternative methods where possible Ensure personnel requested to complete the task have had adequate training and capable of completing the task without injury
5.	Name 2 of an EMPLOYEE'S Duties?
	To ensure that the correct methods of manual handling techniques are adopted
6.	Name 2 parts of the body you may injure during Manual Handling Activities
	Spine , Abdomen / groin
7.	List 3 Key points of KINETIC lifting
	The load should be lifted whilst keeping the back straight , feet correctly placed, and perform a clean lift without twisting
	Manual Handling Questions Model Answers
1.	When it is not reasonably practical to avoid an activity that may result in injury to the employee. When it is not reasonably practical to use mechanical means for the operation.
2.	Task, Individual, Load, Environment.
3.	Seek Assistance and Use team Lifting Methods.
4.	Safe Appliances and Equipment Safe Handling of Materials Information, Instruction and Training A SAFE Place of Work and Safe Working Equipment A Safe Means of Access and Egress A Suitable and Sufficient Risk Assessment for all Work Activities
5.	Take reasonable care of their own safety and that of others. Co-operate with their employer to enable him to meet their legal obligations. Bring to the attention of the employer any concerns regarding health and safety standards. To use equipment provided for your health and safety.
6.	Back, Hands, Knees, Arms, Legs.
7.	Position and Plant Feet, Bend Knees, Straight Back, Arms Close to Body, Good Grip of the Load, Chin In, Head Up, No jerking or twisting, clean lift.

Typical Examination Questions based on Element 4 Manual and mechanical handling hazards and control

1.	Identify the main items to be checked by the person appointed to have overall control of a lifting operation which is to be carried out with the use of a crane hired for the purpose.	(8)
	Items such as; the need to carry out an overall assessment of the operation to take account of the ground conditions for the proposed site of the crane and the presence of any overhead obstructions such as power lines; the suitability of the lifting appliance and associated equipment selected with particular reference to their safe working loads; the documentary evidence to prove that the required examinations, inspections and maintenance had been carried out; the competence of all personnel involved in the operation such as the crane driver, slinger and banksmen and their familiarity with the hand signals or other means of communication that were to be used.
2.	List the range of defects that might be observed in a wire rope sling during routine inspection prior to use.	(8)
	Defects such as kinking, broken wires ('needles'), ovalling caused by external wear or stretching, corrosion, damage to thimbles and ferrules, 'birdcaging' and the lack of any identification or indication of the sling's safe working load.
3.	Concrete building blocks are to be moved on a construction site. Outline the key issues to be addressed if the blocks are to be moved by mechanical and manual means. Give practical examples within your answer.	(8)
	A manual handling assessment would have to be carried out to determine if mechanical or manual means were to be used. The assessment would consider the issues relating to the load (number and weight of blocks to be moved), the task (horizontal and vertical distances to be moved), the environment (ground conditions, lighting and space to maneuver), and the individual (physical characteristics and training in manual handling). If the decision was then taken to use mechanical means the key issues include the selection of suitable equipment, the competence of operators, and issues connected with ensuring safe stacking and storage. Provision of adequate access routes that are free from obstruction is an important issue for both manual and mechanical handling
4.	Outline the measures required to ensure the safe operation of an inclined hoist used to raise and lower roofing materials.	(8)
	Measures such as the importance of the hoist being in good state of repair, well maintained and with its controls marked to indicate their functions; inspected when in use by a competent person; positioned on stable ground and erected according to the manufacturers' instructions; protected with barriers at both top and bottom levels; attended at all times whilst in use, with care being taken to ensure that the load was secured and not in excess of the safe working load of the hoist
5.	Outline the factors that might cause a mobile crane to overturn during use.	(8)
	Factors such as the failure to set the crane on a level footing, siting it on poor and unstable ground and failing to distribute the weight of the crane by providing adequate timber beneath outriggers would be likely to cause it to overturn. Additional factors affecting the stability would be overloading, incorrect slinging resulting in an unstable load, operating when winds are too strong and driver error such as slewing too quickly or causing an abrupt movement of the jib.

Typical Examination Questions based on Element 3

1.	Outline the measures to be taken to prevent falls associated with stairwells and other holes in floors during the construction of a multi-storey building.	(8)
	The provision of guard rails for stairwells and lift shafts, hand rails on stairs, fixing covers over other holes in floors, providing adequate levels of lighting, ensuring a good standard of housekeeping and a high level of supervision and control.
2.	Outline the hazards associated with small dumper trucks.	(8)
	Hazards include, amongst others: collisions with pedestrians, other vehicles or structures; overturning due to uneven ground or excavations; falls of materials or persons from truck; contact with moving parts or hot surfaces; and noise and vibration.
3.	A significant number of the accidents associated with work on construction sites are associated with plant and vehicle movement. Outline the control measures that should be adopted to prevent such accidents occurring.	(8)
	Control measures such as site planning and maintenance of traffic routes to segregate pedestrians and vehicles; imposing site speed restrictions and preventing unauthorised use or movement of plant; compliance with general safety requirements in respect of all plant and machinery such as the proper selection of equipment, the need to ensure that dangerous parts of machines were properly guarded, and that a regime of planned inspections and maintenance and procedures for reporting defects was put in place and finally ensuring that all operators were competent to perform the tasks allotted to them.
4.	Outline a hierarchy of measures to minimize the risks from reversing vehicles on a construction site.	(8)
	One of the first measures is to eliminate or reduce the need for reversing by introducing a one way system and providing turning circles or loading/unloading areas. In circumstances where this might not be possible, it would be necessary to ensure that safe systems of work were in place and followed. Such systems would include the exclusion of pedestrians from site traffic areas, the use of banksmen, the provision of information, instructions and training and the mandatory wearing of hi-visibility clothing. The vehicles would need to be fitted with audible/visual reversing warning devices and features such as CCTV and Fresnel lens and mirrors
5.	The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 require that work equipment used in hostile environments is inspected at suitable intervals. Identify the items on a small dumper truck that should be the subject of such an inspection.	(8)
	Items include the provision and condition of roll over protection and driver restraints (e.g. seat belts); the condition of the bodywork and seats; the condition of the tyres; the effectiveness of the braking system, steering and warning devices; the performance of the bucket release and tilt mechanisms; the integrity of fuel, oil and hydraulic systems and the legibility of labels and signs.

Typical Examination Questions based on Element 2

1	Site preparation work involves the removal of topsoil from land known to be contaminated with heavy metals. Outline the specific requirements for this work in relation to: welfare facilities.	4
	Facilities such as a decontamination unit with a dirty area where contaminated clothing can be removed after work, an area with a shower or other means of washing and a clean area where normal clothes can be stored. Additionally, there should be arrangements in place in order to prevent contamination when eating and smoking, and first-aid and emergency decontamination should be made available.
2	Describe the shape and colours of the following classes of safety sign prescribed by the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996. (i) Prohibition (ii) Warning (iii) Mandatory (iv) Emergency escape / first-aid (2)	2 2 2 2
	A round sign with a black pictogram on a white background together with red edging and a diagonal red line. A triangle with black border and orange centre. A blue circle. A green rectangle.
3	A tank that measures 4 meters long, 3 meters wide and 2 meters deep is to be buried in a green field site as part of a surface water drainage system. Outline the principle hazards that should be considered when planning the work.	8
	Hazards such as ground conditions, type of ground, possible presence of contaminants; the excavation work with the risk of collapse of the sides, persons or vehicles falling in, the presence of groundwater, possible flooding; health hazards such as leptospirosis; the lowering of the tank, crane overturning if it is not correctly rated for the job or properly sited; the presence of underground and overhead services
4	Outline the precautions to be taken before lifting operations are carried out adjacent to high voltage overhead power lines.
	To consult the electricity supply company, to make lines dead where possible, goalpost barriers, height restriction placed on vehicles, the use of banksmen, the placing of warning signs and barriers, communication of safety precautions to all involved and to have emergency procedures in place.	8

Example Examination Questions for Element 1

List Four duties of the CDM coordinator under the (Design and Management) Regulations 2007

• Advise the client of his responsibilities under the regulations.
  
• Notify the HSE on form F10
  
• Compile the Project health and safety file
  
• Liaise with designers and principle contractor with all matters H$S
  

Outline the principle duties of a client under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007

The client duties under the CDM 2007 Regs include the assessment of competence of all appointed contractors, it is his duty to ensure there are sufficient resources and time scales for the project to complete safely including the provision welfare facilities. Provide all relevant pre-construction information is passed on to relevant parties.

Additional duties for notifiable projects include the appointment of the Principle contractor and the CDM Co-ordinator whilst ensuring there is a proper project management plan in place, and the construction phase is in place and retains the health and safety plan whilst providing access to the CDM Co-ordinator and other concerned parties.

List Four duties of the Designers under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007

• Review and remove hazards at the design stage
  
• Provide information as to any remaining hazards
  
• Advise the client of their duties under the CDM 2007 Regs.
  
• Provide information relevant to the CDM coordinator for the H$S file
  

In relation to the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 outline the meaning of "notifiable Project"

In relation to the CDM 2007 Regs the term "notifiable project" refers to project which a construction phase which is longer than 30 days and or 500 man days, then the project is notifiable to the HSE using form F10 and this is the responsibility of the CDM Coordinator who is required to be appointed for notifiable projects.