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ECS Test 11

Mock Tests > ECS Test 11

You have 30 minutes to answer 50 multiple choice ECS Test questions. You need 43 out of 50 to pass. You can review your answer after each question or wait until the end of the test for your result. Good luck!

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1. When storing liquids (such as oils, fuels or chemicals) on-site, what must you do? Give one answer
A Always use the nearest container
B Ensure the liquid material is stored safely and securely, and out of the way of site traffic
C Keep the tops off, to prevent pressure from building up
D Use a transparent container so you can check how much liquid is in it
Correct Answer: B Ensure the liquid material is stored safely and securely, and out of the way of site traffic
Explanation: Any spillage could get into the ground or drains, which is likely to be an offence under environmental legislation.
2. Intumescent materials used to provide fire-stopping are designed to: Give one answer
A Expand when subjected to heat
B Expand when subjected to smoke
C Prevent noise transmission
D Shrink when subjected to heat
Correct Answer: A Expand when subjected to heat
Explanation: A limited number of fire-resistant materials may be used to provide fire-stopping. These include intumescent products, which are designed to expand and provide fire-stopping when subjected to heat. Examples include intumescent 'pillows' (used to provide internal sealing of trunking) and intumescent mastic.
3. The Electricity at Work Regulations require that: Give one answer
A A training course is necessary before anyone can work with electricity
B Anyone supervised can work with electricity
C Only electricians can work with electricity
D Persons working with electricity must have the appropriate level of knowledge and experience
Correct Answer: D Persons working with electricity must have the appropriate level of knowledge and experience
Explanation: Competency is a requirement of r.16 of the EAW Regulations.
4. Which of the following is not a suitable means of isolating a circuit? Give one answer
A Fitting a padlocked circuit breaker lockout
B Padlocking the isolating switch
C Putting insulating tape over the circuit breaker
D Removing a fuse and locking the distribution board
Correct Answer: C Putting insulating tape over the circuit breaker
Explanation: The isolating device should be switched off or the fuse removed. The switch, circuit breaker or enclosure should then be locked and the key removed. A notice or label should also be posted to warn that someone is working on the circuit or apparatus.
5. Which of the following is classed as hazardous/special waste? Give one answer
A Empty cement bags
B Fluorescent light tubes
C Non-asbestos Insulation
D Polythene and shrink wrap
Correct Answer: B Fluorescent light tubes
Explanation: Hazardous wastes (special wastes in Scotland) are specified in waste legislation. Fluorescent tubes are included because of their mercury content.
6. Other site workers are complaining that you are generating too much dust. What should you do? Give one answer
A Ignore them - it's none of their business
B Issue the other site workers with dust masks
C Stop work and inform your supervisor
D Tell them you have nearly finished
Correct Answer: C Stop work and inform your supervisor
Explanation: Excessive dust may be a health hazard to you and those around you, but even if it is not a health hazard, excessive dust can be a 'statutory nuisance (under the Environmental Protection Act). Even when it is not a statutory nuisance, it can lead to complaints from neighbours and possible damage to neighbouring property.
7. The lowest level of electrical current which can harm the human body is normally measured in: Give one answer
A Amps
B Kiloamps
C Microamps
D Milliamps
Correct Answer: D Milliamps
Explanation: Research has shown that a person is in serious danger of a fatal electric shock at, or above, approximately 30 milliamps.
8. Where there is no local means of isolation for equipment or circuits to be worked on, which of the following is the preferred method of isolation? Give one answer
A Disconnecting the individual circuit from the DB
B Isolation of the individual circuit breaker or fuse
C Isolation of the main switch or DB switch- disconnector
D Pulling out the distributor's cut-out fuse
Correct Answer: C Isolation of the main switch or DB switch- disconnector
Explanation: Isolating the whole installation or distribution board is the safest method.
9. Which of the following statements is true with regard to the dangers of electricity? Give one answer
A Electricity is dangerous at any time because you cannot tell by looking at a cable whether or not it is live
B Electricity is only dangerous if you are not wearing wellington boots
C Electricity is only dangerous in wet weather
D Electricity is perfectly safe so long as you wear cotton gloves
Correct Answer: A Electricity is dangerous at any time because you cannot tell by looking at a cable whether or not it is live
Explanation: The features which make electricity so dangerous are that you cannot see, hear or smell it. It can give you a very unpleasant surprise. Always assume that cables are live.
10. To determine the safety of the atmosphere in an excavation, which of the following is essential Give one answer
A Looking for toxic gases
B Only entering for a short period to enable a quick escape
C Sniffing the atmosphere after entry
D Using a gas detector
Correct Answer: D Using a gas detector
Explanation: Use a suitable detector. Many dangerous gases have no smell, and cannot be seen. Workers can be overcome in seconds in dangerous atmospheres.
11. What is the purpose of using a 'permit to work' system? Give one answer
A To enable tools and equipment to be properly checked before the commencement of work
B To ensure that the client will pay for the work
C To ensure the job is carried out by the quickest method
D To help ensure a safe system of work
Correct Answer: D To help ensure a safe system of work
Explanation: A permit to work is a written system used to control certain types of hazardous work. They allow work to start only when site procedures have been clarified.
12. A Cable Avoidance Tool (C.A.T.) and a 'Genny' (generator) can be used successfully to locate underground cables by whom: Give one answer
A A competent person after training
B Any electricity company employee
C Anyone
D The site foreman
Correct Answer: A A competent person after training
Explanation: Equipment used to locate buried services must only be used by people who have been trained to use it.
13. Which of the following would you use to replace the fuse in a plug if fuses were NOT available? Give one answer
A A bit of wire
B A nail
C A piece of silver paper
D None of the options listed
Correct Answer: D None of the options listed
Explanation: A fuse is often the main safety device in an electrical circuit. A blown fuse must only be replaced by a fuse of the correct type and rating.
14. What precaution should you take before adjusting an electrical tool? Give one answer
A Check the lead is not twisted or knotted
B Disconnect from the power source
C Wear safety footwear with steel toecaps
D Wear the correct personal protective equipment
Correct Answer: B Disconnect from the power source
Explanation: Do not adjust tools which could still be live or operate.
15. If an electric drill gives off blue smoke from the motor, you should: Give one answer
A Pour water over it
B Stop work for 30 minutes
C Switch it off and report it
D Use a CO2 extinguisher
Correct Answer: C Switch it off and report it
Explanation: Defective electric hand tools must not be used. Stop what you are doing and inform your supervisor.
16. If you only have a mains voltage (230 V) hand drill and you want to use it on a construction site which only has yellow (110 V) socket-outlets, what should you do? Give one answer
A Cut the plug off and fit a yellow one instead
B Make up an extension cable with a yellow plug on one end and a standard socket on the other end
C Obtain a 110 V drill or a cordless one for the work
D Use a transformer to boost the voltage
Correct Answer: C Obtain a 110 V drill or a cordless one for the work
Explanation: Electrical equipment must not be modified or operated at voltages other than their design voltage.
17. A scaffold tower must be erected by: Give one answer
A A trained and competent person
B Senior site staff
C The hire company who supply it
D The site foreman
Correct Answer: A A trained and competent person
Explanation: There are a number of organizations that provide training for the safe erection and use of tower scaffolds.
18. When working on a roof that has fragile, clear-plastic panels, what is the best way of preventing falls through the panels? Give one answer
A Cover the fragile panels with a strong material and secure the covers to stop them being dislodged
B It shouldn't be necessary to do anything, everyone knows the dangers
C Make sure that everyone is told where the panels are and to avoid treading on them
D Remove the panels carefully to leave an open space.
Correct Answer: A Cover the fragile panels with a strong material and secure the covers to stop them being dislodged
Explanation: Protection from falling through openings and fragile roof lights can be provided by barriers or with covers which can be secured or labelled with a warning.
19. What hazard is created when the head of a cold chisel 'mushrooms'? Give one answer
A Damage to the hammer head
B Flying steel splinters
C Reduced striking area
D Softens the impact
Correct Answer: B Flying steel splinters
Explanation: This question is looking for the 'hazard', which is the situation that can cause harm to people.
20. A workmate lifting a big box suddenly shouts "oh, my back" and drops the box. What should you do? Give one answer
A Find them somewhere comfortable to sit and rest
B Help them to lift the box
C Send for the first-aider
D Tell them to leave it for someone else to lift
Correct Answer: C Send for the first-aider
Explanation: The priority for any back injury is to obtain first-aid advice, in order to prevent further damage.
21. In an emergency situation at work you should do what? Give one answer
A Ensure your work mates are all accounted for
B Leave the site immediately
C Obey the site emergency procedure
D Phone the HSE Inspectorate
Correct Answer: C Obey the site emergency procedure
Explanation: A site emergency plan should have been drawn up and you should be familiar with the emergency procedure.
22. Ladders should be set at a slope of approximately: Give one answer
A 1 out for every 1 up
B 1 out for every 3 up
C 1 out for every 4 up
D 4 out for every 1 up
Correct Answer: C 1 out for every 4 up
23. Before being used, a ladder should be inspected: Give one answer
A By the Safety Officer
B By the foreman
C By the manufacturer
D By the user
Correct Answer: D By the user
Explanation: The user needs to be satisfied that the ladder is in a safe condition before using it.
24. Ladders should be: Give one answer
A At the right angle
B In good condition
C Tied or footed
D Tied or footed AND at the right angle AND in good condition
Correct Answer: D Tied or footed AND at the right angle AND in good condition
Explanation: All the measures listed are required to reduce the risk of falls.
25. All new fire extinguishers are coloured red or of bright self-coloured metal. How do you know the difference between types? Give one answer
A A different colour panel or band is on the body of the extinguishers
B During site induction, you will be told where the different types of extinguishers are
C The type of extinguisher is written on a sign next to it
D The weight and shape of the extinguisher
Correct Answer: A A different colour panel or band is on the body of the extinguishers
Explanation: Different coloured bands show extinguisher types e.g. black for CO2 and blue for dry powder.
26. When discharging carbon dioxide fire extinguishers, the nozzle: Give one answer
A Becomes very cold
B Becomes very hot
C Becomes warm
D Doesn't change temperature
Correct Answer: A Becomes very cold
Explanation: The expansion of CO2 gas coming out of the nozzle causes rapid cooling.
27. A workmate burns their hand on a piece of very hot metal. What should you do first? Give one answer
A Cover the burn with something dry
B Put their hand in cold water if it is available
C Rub some cream or Vaseline into the burn
D Warn other people about the piece of hot metal
Correct Answer: B Put their hand in cold water if it is available
Explanation: Burns need immediate and sustained cooling
28. A labourer gets an electric shock; looks a bit pale but says they are alright. What should you do? Give one answer
A Go and check the electrics so it cannot happen again
B See if they want a drink or a cigarette
C Send someone for the first-aider
D Tell them to report it to their supervisor
Correct Answer: C Send someone for the first-aider
Explanation: Competent first-aid treatment is essential, and should be summoned immediately
29. If someone has fallen over and has stopped breathing, what is the first thing you should do? Give one answer
A Attend to any broken bones
B Send for help
C Try to give the casualty a drink
D Try to start the casualty breathing
Correct Answer: B Send for help
Explanation: Do not delay in sending for help; then try to start the casualty breathing.
30. What must your employer do if the daily personal noise exposure is at or exceeds 85 db(A)? Give one answer
A Issue hearing protection to those exposed and ensure that it is worn
B Provide hearing protection to those employees who ask for it
C Report it to the Health and Safety Executive
D Tell employees to buy their own hearing protection
Correct Answer: A Issue hearing protection to those exposed and ensure that it is worn
Explanation: This is an interim measure under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 when the daily personal noise exposure is at or exceeds the upper exposure action value of 85 dB(A). Exposure should subsequently be reduced by implementing organizational or technical measures.
31. Which of the following animals can carry Weil's disease? Give one answer
A Pig
B Rat
C Sheep
D Snake
Correct Answer: B Rat
Explanation: Weil's disease is a serious and sometimes fatal infection that can be transmitted to humans by contact with infected rats. Another form of Leptospirosis infection can be transmitted from cattle to humans.
32. What is a fire assembly point? Give one answer
A A place where fire extinguishers are kept
B A place where the fire brigade goes to
C The place to go when the fire alarm sounds
D The place where the fire alarm is
Correct Answer: C The place to go when the fire alarm sounds
Explanation: It is essential that people go to a place of safety, where supervisors or fire marshals know where they are, in the event of a fire.
33. Who has a duty to provide PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) for use by an employee? Give one answer
A The client
B The employee
C The employer
D The principal contractor
Correct Answer: C The employer
Explanation: This is a requirement of the PPE at Work Regulations 1992(Regulation 4).
34. While working you discover material you think could be asbestos. What should you do? Give one answer
A Clear any dust and fragments, put them in a bin then carry on working
B Dampen the material to prevent further dust being created, then carry on working
C Inform the site nurse
D Stop working immediately and report your suspicions to your supervisor
Correct Answer: D Stop working immediately and report your suspicions to your supervisor
Explanation: It is essential to stop work if asbestos is found or suspected, and await competent advice on what to do next.
35. In normal use, what item of PPE is NOT essential for the operator of a cartridge-operated tool, such as a nail gun? Give one answer
A Hearing protection
B Safety eyewear
C Safety helmet
D Wellington boots
Correct Answer: D Wellington boots
Explanation: Wellingtons do not offer protection against the specific risks associated with the use of a cartridge-operated tool, although safety footwear must always be worn when there is a risk of a foot injury.
36. Which of the following must your safety helmet comply with to meet with the requirements of the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations? Give one answer
A It can be adjusted to suit your head size
B It has a label with your name on it
C It is a good visible colour
D It is less than 1 year old
Correct Answer: A It can be adjusted to suit your head size
Explanation: An assessment of the suitability of head protection would include consideration of whether it can be adjusted to suit the individual who is to wear it, that it is compatible with the work to be done and that it is comfortable to wear.
37. Which of the following statements is TRUE when an employer issues personal protective equipment (PPE)? Give one answer
A The employer can charge you for the full cost of it
B The employer can charge you for up to half the cost of it
C The employer can only charge you for it if you lose or damage it
D The employer cannot charge you for it
Correct Answer: D The employer cannot charge you for it
Explanation: Employers cannot charge for PPE such as hard hats, gloves, required by law (and the bulk of PPE is required by law).
38. Could making an entry in the accident book help you if you later make a claim for compensation? Give one answer
A No
B Only if it is a serious injury
C Only in the event of a fatality
D Yes
Correct Answer: D Yes
Explanation: This is laid down in Social Security Legislation.
39. When an article has to be moved for a long distance, you should: Give one answer
A Carry it all the way
B Drag it all the way
C Get someone else to do it for you
D Use a barrow or trolley
Correct Answer: D Use a barrow or trolley
Explanation: The use of handling aids can reduce the risk of injury.
40. Which one of the following has the power to examine an accident record? Give one answer
A A doctor
B A workmate
C An HSE inspector
D An insurance company
Correct Answer: C An HSE inspector
Explanation: HSE inspectors have a range of powers, including this one.
41. At work who would you report a dangerous occurrence to? Give one answer
A Another employee
B The client for the project
C The emergency services
D Your supervisor or employer
Correct Answer: D Your supervisor or employer
Explanation: Under RIDDOR, an employer has a legal duty to report certain work-related accidents, but to do this they will need to know that an accident has occurred.
42. What should you do if your supervisor asks you to move something that you find is too heavy to lift? Give one answer
A Ask your mates to assist in the lift
B Get a forklift truck or lifting tackle
C Give it a try using correct lifting methods
D Inform your supervisor that it is too heavy
Correct Answer: D Inform your supervisor that it is too heavy
Explanation: The HSE advises employees to inform the employer if they identify hazardous handling activities
43. Which of the following is advisable when lifting a load manually? Give one answer
A Bend the knees, keep the back as straight as possible, use power of legs
B Bend the knees, keep the back straight, use power of back
C Keep legs and back straight, use power of legs
D Keep legs straight, bend back, use power of legs
Correct Answer: A Bend the knees, keep the back as straight as possible, use power of legs
Explanation: Stooping can increase the stress on the lower back. However, stooping slightly may be preferable to adopting a squatting posture, which can place excessive loads on knees and hips.
44. What does 'Kinetic lifting' mean? Give one answer
A Getting a friend to help you with the load
B Lifting in the most safe and effective way
C Using a crane or some other mechanical means
D Using a forklift truck or pallet truck
Correct Answer: B Lifting in the most safe and effective way
45. Which of the following statements is correct? Give one answer
A All employees must take reasonable care, not only to protect themselves but also their colleagues
B Employees have no responsibility for Health and Safety on site
C Only the client is responsible for safety on site
D The duty for health and safety falls only on the employer
Correct Answer: A All employees must take reasonable care, not only to protect themselves but also their colleagues
Explanation: This is a legal requirement under Section 7 of the Health & Safety at Work Act.
46. What is a HAZARD? Give one answer
A An accident waiting to happen
B Something with the potential to cause harm
C The likelihood of something going wrong
D Where an accident is likely to happen
Correct Answer: B Something with the potential to cause harm
Explanation: Examples of hazards include: a drum of acid, breeze blocks on an elevated plank; cables running across a floor.
47. What is the main colour on a safety sign stating that you must NOT do something? Give one answer
A Blue
B Green
C Red
D Yellow
Correct Answer: C Red
Explanation: Prohibitory signs are round and feature a black pictogram on a white background with red edging and diagonal line.
48. A Prohibition Notice means: Give one answer
A The work must stop immediately
B When you finish the work you must not start again
C Work is to stop for that day only
D Work may continue until the end of the day
Correct Answer: A The work must stop immediately
Explanation: The work activity covered by the prohibition notice must cease, until the identified danger is removed.
49. What is an "Improvement Notice"? Give one answer
A A notice from the client to the principal contractor to speed up the work
B A notice issued by a Building Control Officer to deepen foundations
C A notice issued by an HSE/local authority Inspector to enforce compliance with health and safety legislation
D A notice issued by the site principal contractor to tidy up the site
Correct Answer: C A notice issued by an HSE/local authority Inspector to enforce compliance with health and safety legislation
Explanation: Improvement notices require action to achieve standards which meet health and safety law.
50. What do the letters HSE stand for? Give one answer
A Health and Safety Examiner
B Health and Safety Executive
C Health and Safety Exercise
D Highly Safe Electrician
Correct Answer: B Health and Safety Executive
Explanation: The Health and Safety Executive was established under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.