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ECS Test 8

Mock Tests > ECS Test 8

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. Which action will help to minimise waste? Give one answer
A Always order much more than usually required - just in case you need it
B Leave materials unprotected in the rain
C Only take or open what you need and return or reseal anything left over
D Use new materials/packs at the beginning of each day
Correct Answer: C Only take or open what you need and return or reseal anything left over
Explanation: The hierarchy for managing waste is to reduce/reuse/recover. Reducing the amount of waste is therefore the first priority.
2. Which of the following is good environmental practice? Give one answer
A Leaving motors running when they are not needed
B Leaving skips uncovered in wet weather
C Over-ordering materials
D Segregating waste into different types
Correct Answer: D Segregating waste into different types
Explanation: This is good practice, since it will help with waste recovery. If the waste is classified as hazardous waste (special waste in Scotland) proper segregation is also a legal requirement.
3. If you discover a hole or gap in a fire rated wall or floor that has not been fire-stopped, what should you do? Give one answer
A Cover the hole or gap with insulating tape
B Ignore it unless it is causing a draught
C Report it to your supervisor without delay
D Use decorators' sealant to fill the gap
Correct Answer: C Report it to your supervisor without delay
Explanation: Supervisors need to be made aware of any observed inadequacies in fire-stopping - which can undermine fire precautions catastrophically during the construction of buildings and on their completion. Only a limited range of products are suitable and they must be correctly applied to provide the required degree of fire-stopping.
4. Why should the end of an optical fibre cable never be pointed towards your own or anyone else's eyes? Give one answer
A The beam can bore a hole through the skin
B The beam can damage the eyes
C The beam can transfer a strong electric current
D The colour of the beam is very hypnotic
Correct Answer: B The beam can damage the eyes
Explanation: Exposure to light sources such as lasers or highly concentrated visible or infrared light beams, associated with the testing or use of optical fibres, can cause damage to the eyes, or even blindness.
5. Under environmental law, which statement is true? Give one answer
A Companies and individuals can be prosecuted if they do not follow the law
B Companies can be prosecuted, but not individuals
C It is legal to disturb protected species' habitats
D It is legal to transport business waste without proper paperwork
Correct Answer: A Companies and individuals can be prosecuted if they do not follow the law
Explanation: Most environmental law is enforced against companies, but the regulator in the relevant part of the UK (the Environment Agency, SEPA or NIEA) can also prosecute company officers and even have powers to prosecute employees if they wilfully contribute to environmental harm.
6. With regard to the effect of electrical current on the human body, one of the following is correct: Give one answer
A A 3 amp fuse should prevent a person receiving a fatal electric shock
B A 30mA Residual Current Device (RCD) should prevent a person receiving a fatal electric shock.
C A 5 amp rewireable fuse should prevent a person receiving a fatal electric shock
D A 6 amp circuit breaker should prevent a person receiving a fatal electric shock
Correct Answer: B A 30mA Residual Current Device (RCD) should prevent a person receiving a fatal electric shock.
Explanation: An RCD is a mechanical switching device intended to cause the opening of the contacts when the residual current attains a given value under specified conditions.
7. 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.
8. The probes of voltage detectors and test instruments used on electrical systems should be: Give one answer
A Accompanied by a calibration certificate
B Coloured red
C Manufactured in the UK
D Shaped or have barriers to prevent finger contact with the tips
Correct Answer: D Shaped or have barriers to prevent finger contact with the tips
Explanation: In addition, to protect against damage by overcurrent whilst in use, the probes or instrument should incorporate suitable high breaking capacity (hbc) fuses with a low current rating (usually not exceeding 500 mA), or current-limiting resistors.
9. Why may young people be more at risk on site? Give one answer
A There is no requirement to provide PPE to young people
B There is no specific legislation applying to them
C They are inexperienced and may not recognize danger
D They are usually left to work alone to gain experience
Correct Answer: C They are inexperienced and may not recognize danger
Explanation: Health and Safety guidance lists young people as often being 'at particular risk', due to their lack of practical experience.
10. You have to enter a manhole in which you believe there could be toxic gases. You have not been provided with any Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE). What should you do? Give one answer
A Just get on with the job, and accept the risks
B Look into the manhole to see if you can see any harmful gases
C Sniff the atmosphere in the manhole to see if you can smell harmful gases
D Tell your supervisor that you will need RPE, and if necessary, training in confined space working
Correct Answer: D Tell your supervisor that you will need RPE, and if necessary, training in confined space working
Explanation: An employer must provide all necessary personal protective equipment and respiratory protective equipment when an employee is required to enter a confined space. This is one of the requirements of the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997.
11. You have to walk across a site several times a day, but have to dodge a lot of site traffic. The first thing you should do is: Give one answer
A Have word with the drivers
B Jump on the back of a vehicle if you can, it's safer than walking
C Tell your supervisor about the danger
D Walk around the edges of the site to keep out of the way
Correct Answer: C Tell your supervisor about the danger
Explanation: Pedestrian routes should have been set up to keep people and vehicles apart, so inform your employer if the system is not working. Don't hitch rides on vehicles unless safe seating is provided.
12. In accordance with the Electricity at Work regulations, when considering whether to work live a responsible person should: Give one answer
A Carry out a risk assessment
B Do as the client demands
C Only work dead
D Only work live
Correct Answer: A Carry out a risk assessment
Explanation: To identify and assess the risks involved and the methods of controlling them.
13. To prove a circuit or equipment is dead after isolation what is the FIRST activity in the sequence of events? Give one answer
A Check between line and earth
B Check between line and neutral
C Check that the voltage detector is working on a proving device, known live source or in- built test feature
D Make sure equipment is not working
Correct Answer: C Check that the voltage detector is working on a proving device, known live source or in- built test feature
Explanation: This will prove that that the voltage detector (such as a two-pole voltage detector or proprietary test lamp) is working, i.e. indicating voltage.
14. Your supervisor asks you to use a powered hand-tool which has a rotating blade. You notice that the guard is missing from the blade. What do you do? Give one answer
A Contact the manufacturer of the tool
B Inform your supervisor that the tool is unsafe and that the guard must be replaced before it is used
C Try to make an improvised guard yourself
D Use the tool anyway, you haven't had an accident with it before
Correct Answer: B Inform your supervisor that the tool is unsafe and that the guard must be replaced before it is used
Explanation: It is essential that supervisors are aware of faulty or damaged equipment.
15. How often should user (visual) checks be carried out on portable electrical equipment? Give one answer
A At least once a year
B Every day
C Every time you use it
D Once a week
Correct Answer: C Every time you use it
Explanation: All items of portable electrical equipment should be visually checked for safety by the user before being put into use.
16. To operate a powered hand tool you must be: Give one answer
A 16 years old or over
B 18 years old or over
C 21 years old or over
D Trained and competent
Correct Answer: D Trained and competent
Explanation: There are no general age restrictions in legislation relating to the use of work equipment. Any person using work equipment, however, must be competent to do so, which will require initial and refresher training.
17. You have been asked to operate a cherry-picker (mobile elevated work platform) when it is very windy. What should your FIRST consideration be? Give one answer
A Does the wind-speed make it unsafe to use the machine
B Tie all light-weight objects to the hand-rails of the basket
C Wear a safety harness and clip it to the structure that you are working on
D Wear an extra layer of clothing to keep warm
Correct Answer: A Does the wind-speed make it unsafe to use the machine
Explanation: The priority in safety is eliminating risk at source - in this case by not working in dangerous conditions - rather than trying to stay safe by using protective equipment.
18. Of the following, which is the poorest method of securing a ladder? Give one answer
A Having someone foot the ladder
B Securing the base of the ladder
C Tying the ladder
D Using a ladder stability device
Correct Answer: A Having someone foot the ladder
Explanation: Footing a ladder is the last resort and should be avoided. Other more suitable access equipment should be used where practicable.
19. Prior to moving a mobile tower scaffold, the platform height should reduced to a maximum of: Give one answer
A 2 metres
B 3 metres
C 4 metres
D 5 metres
Correct Answer: C 4 metres
Explanation: This figure is quoted in guidance published by the HSE and PASMA. Checks should also be made that there are no obstructions overhead, the ground is firm, level and free from potholes, it is not too windy and there are no people or materials on the tower.
20. What do the letters SWL stand for? Give one answer
A Safe working level
B Safe working load
C Satisfactory weight limit
D Satisfactory working limit
Correct Answer: B Safe working load
Explanation: Machinery and accessories for lifting loads should be clearly marked to indicate their safe working loads.
21. Your workmate suddenly gets a foreign body in the eye. What should you do? Give one answer
A Send someone for the first-aider
B Take your workmate to the supervisor
C Use a clean handkerchief to try and remove it
D Wash your hands before touching your mate's face
Correct Answer: A Send someone for the first-aider
Explanation: Competent first-aid treatment is essential, and should be summoned immediately.
22. 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.
23. A ladder giving access to a scaffold can generally be safely used, provided that: Give one answer
A Any broken rungs are clearly marked
B It does not move when you climb up it
C It is tied and extends at least 1 metre above the platform
D The foot of the ladder is firmly wedged
Correct Answer: C It is tied and extends at least 1 metre above the platform
Explanation: Access ladders should extend at least 1 metre above the landing point to provide a safe handhold.
24. When can you work from a ladder? Give one answer
A For short periods and then only if it is safe to do so
B When it is available
C When it is long enough
D When not being used for access
Correct Answer: A For short periods and then only if it is safe to do so
Explanation: Ladders are primarily means of access, not workplaces. They can be worked from, but only if the use of other, more suitable, work equipment is not appropriate and the task is of low risk and of short duration.
25. A black-labelled fire extinguisher contains: Give one answer
A Carbon dioxide
B Dry powder
C Foam
D Water
Correct Answer: A Carbon dioxide
26. What is a blue-labelled fire extinguisher filled with? Give one answer
A Carbon Dioxide
B Dry powder
C Foam
D Water
Correct Answer: B Dry powder
27. What colour is a water filled fire extinguisher, or its label? Give one answer
A Black
B Cream
C Green
D Red
Correct Answer: D Red
28. A red-labelled fire extinguisher should NOT be used: Give one answer
A On burning clothes
B On burning furniture
C On wood fires
D Where there is a risk of electrocution
Correct Answer: D Where there is a risk of electrocution
Explanation: Red denotes water. Liquids should not be used on electrical fires, since they can conduct electricity.
29. 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
30. The extended use of powered hand-held tools and equipment may lead to which medical condition? Give one answer
A Asbestosis
B Dermatitis
C Vibration white finger
D Weil's disease
Correct Answer: C Vibration white finger
Explanation: Hand-arm vibration can cause a range of conditions (including vibration white finger) collectively known as hand-arm vibration syndrome, as well as diseases such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
31. Wearing suitable hearing protection: Give one answer
A Brings noise down to an acceptable level
B Repairs damaged hearing
C Stops you hearing all noise
D Stops you hearing distracting conversations
Correct Answer: A Brings noise down to an acceptable level
Explanation: Hearing protection still allows some noise to reach the ear, but, if it has been correctly chosen, will reduce noise levels to an acceptable level.
32. What action should you take if you discover a fire? Give one answer
A Carry on working if it is safe to do so
B Extinguish the fire without raising the alarm
C Leave it because you will get the blame
D Raise the alarm
Correct Answer: D Raise the alarm
Explanation: Raising the alarm will reduce the risk to others, particularly if the fire spreads.
33. When is head protection required to be worn on a construction site to comply with the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations? Give one answer
A At all times except by those who are self employed
B At all times unless there is no foreseeable risk of injury to the head other than by falling.
C At all times unless you are working on scaffold
D Only when you feel like it
Correct Answer: B At all times unless there is no foreseeable risk of injury to the head other than by falling.
Explanation: If there is no risk of injury to the head, then hard hats are not required by law. However, on construction sites, despite controls being in place, there will almost always be situations where a risk of head injury remains and require head protection to be worn. Site rules will also require the wearing of head protection other than in any designated safe areas.
34. Which of the following does NOT cause skin problems? Give one answer
A Asbestos
B Bitumens
C Epoxy resins
D Solvents
Correct Answer: A Asbestos
Explanation: Asbestos is potentially very harmful if inhaled, but does not affect the skin significantly.
35. In hot weather which one of the following is correct with regard to safety helmets? Give one answer
A You can drill holes in your safety hat for ventilation
B You can take off your helmet while working inside the building
C You do not need to wear your helmet
D You must continue to wear your helmet
Correct Answer: D You must continue to wear your helmet
Explanation: On construction sites, despite controls being put in place, there will always be situations where a risk of head injury remains. Taking off your helmet would put you at a much greater risk of a head injury and any unauthorised modification would be in breach of legal requirements and could render the helmet next to useless.
36. In which of the following ways should you wear your safety helmet? Give one answer
A Square on your head, properly adjusted
B With the helmet back to front
C With the peak raised to deflect falling material
D With the peak raised to give good vision
Correct Answer: A Square on your head, properly adjusted
Explanation: Any item of personal protective equipment must be used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, which will include how to correctly fit and wear it and what its limitations are.
37. When should you wear safety footwear on site? Give one answer
A Only if the site conditions are wet
B Only when working on scaffolds
C Only when working outdoors
D When there is a risk of a foot injury
Correct Answer: D When there is a risk of a foot injury
Explanation: Suitable safety footwear should be worn if there is a risk of injury from objects falling onto the foot or sharp objects, such as nails, penetrating the sole.
38. If you are involved in a minor accident at work, whose duty is it to report it to site management? Give one answer
A Any witness to the accident
B It is your own responsibility
C The police, fire or ambulance who attend
D The site foreman should report it
Correct Answer: B It is your own responsibility
Explanation: Employers rely on employees to advise them of occurrences at work.
39. An entry must be made in the accident book when: Give one answer
A an accident causes personal injury to an employee
B management thinks it is appropriate
C the person has been off sick for over seven days
D the severity of the accident may result in a compensation claim
Correct Answer: A an accident causes personal injury to an employee
Explanation: An accident causing an injury to an employee at work should be recorded in the accident book (BI 510).
40. Which is the correct way to lift a load? Give one answer
A Keep feet apart and bend back
B Keep feet together and bend back
C Squat near load, bend back and use leg muscles
D Squat near to the load, keeping the back as straight as possible and using leg muscles
Correct Answer: D Squat near to the load, keeping the back as straight as possible and using leg muscles
Explanation: Handling techniques which allow the use of relatively strong leg muscles rather than those of the back are preferable.
41. Which of the following is NOT classified as a specified injury to a worker under RIDDOR? Give one answer
A A broken wrist
B A fractured arm
C A fractured finger
D Amputation of a finger
Correct Answer: C A fractured finger
Explanation: Amputation of an arm, hand, finger, thumb, leg, foot or toe are classified as specified injuries, as are bone fractures other than to fingers, thumbs or toes.
42. Which is the part of your body MOST LIKELY to be injured during a manual handling activity which involves moving a heavy load? Give one answer
A Back
B Chest
C Forearms
D Knees
Correct Answer: A Back
Explanation: HSE statistics show that most manual handling injuries are to the back.
43. What is the most common type of injury resulting from lifting loads from the floor? Give one answer
A Back injuries
B Grazes to the knees
C Head injuries
D Vibration white finger
Correct Answer: A Back injuries
Explanation: As shown by HSE statistics.
44. 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.
45. In the context of a risk assessment, what do you understand by the term risk? Give one answer
A An unsafe act or condition
B Any work activity that can be described as dangerous
C Something with the potential to cause injury
D The likelihood that harm from a particular hazard will occur
Correct Answer: D The likelihood that harm from a particular hazard will occur
Explanation: Hazard and risk are not the same. Risk reflects the chance of being harmed by a hazard
46. 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.
47. The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations require the colour coding of safety signs. What colours are used on a sign indicating a prohibited activity, for example "No access for pedestrians"? Give one answer
A Blue and white
B Green and white
C Red, black and white
D Yellow and black
Correct Answer: C Red, black and white
Explanation: Prohibitory signs are round and feature a black pictogram on a white background with red edging and diagonal line.
48. In what circumstances can an HSE Improvement Notice be issued? Give one answer
A By warrant through the police
B If there is a breach of legal requirements
C Only between Monday and Friday on site
D Through the prosecution office
Correct Answer: B If there is a breach of legal requirements
Explanation: Improvement notices require action to achieve standards which meet health and safety law.
49. Which one of the following must be in a company's written Health and Safety Policy: Give one answer
A Aims and objectives of the company
B Company Director's home address
C Name of the Health and Safety Adviser
D Organization and arrangements in force for carrying out the health and safety policy
Correct Answer: D Organization and arrangements in force for carrying out the health and safety policy
Explanation: This is a specific requirement of the Health and Safety at Work Act.
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.