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CSCS 360° Excavator study materials
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CSCS 360° Excavator practice questions

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Question 1Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

Under the UK's Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations, what is the primary duty placed on an employer regarding excavators used on site?

  1. Ensure equipment is suitable for its intended use and maintained in safe condition Correct answer.
  2. Provide the machine with the lowest possible purchase price
  3. Allow operators to modify controls to suit personal preference
  4. Delegate all inspection duties to the machine manufacturer

Explanation

PUWER requires work equipment to be suitable for purpose, maintained in an efficient state, and inspected where risks warrant it. The duty rests with the employer and is not transferable to the manufacturer or operator alone.

Question 2Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

What is the main purpose of a daily pre-use inspection on a 360° excavator?

  1. To reset the machine's service interval indicator
  2. To record the machine's fuel consumption for costing
  3. To identify defects before they create a risk during operation Correct answer.
  4. To confirm the operator has completed their timesheet

Explanation

Pre-use checks are a control measure to detect defects such as fluid leaks, damaged tracks or faulty alarms before work begins. Finding and reporting defects early prevents them developing into incidents.

Question 3Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

Under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations, which document must be available for a quick-hitch lifting accessory used to lift loads with an excavator?

  1. A thorough examination report from a competent person Correct answer.
  2. A machine purchase invoice
  3. A valid operator driving licence
  4. A site induction attendance sheet

Explanation

LOLER requires lifting accessories to be thoroughly examined by a competent person at specified intervals and after certain events, with reports kept available. The report evidences that the accessory remains safe to use.

Question 4Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

An excavator is being used to lift a load with a certified lifting eye on the bucket. Which statement best reflects the legal position under LOLER?

  1. Lifting with an excavator is prohibited in all circumstances
  2. The lift must be planned, supervised and carried out by competent people Correct answer.
  3. Any lift is permitted provided the bucket is fully curled
  4. Lifting is allowed only if the load is under 500 kg

Explanation

LOLER requires every lifting operation to be properly planned by a competent person, appropriately supervised and carried out safely. There is no blanket prohibition, but the lift must be within the machine's rated capacity and properly managed.

Question 5Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

Which piece of legislation places a general duty on employers to ensure the health, safety and welfare of employees and others affected by their undertaking?

  1. Environmental Protection Act 1990
  2. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations
  3. Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 Correct answer.
  4. Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations

Explanation

Section 2 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 sets the general duty on employers towards employees, and Section 3 extends duties to others affected by the undertaking. The other instruments deal with specific hazards or reporting.

Question 6Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

An operator suffers a broken wrist after a fall from the excavator cab and is taken to hospital. Under RIDDOR, what is the reporting requirement?

  1. Report only if the operator is absent for more than seven days
  2. No report is needed because the injury was self-inflicted
  3. Report only if the machine was damaged in the incident
  4. Report as a specified injury because the injury resulted from an accident at work Correct answer.

Explanation

Certain fractures, including a broken wrist, are specified injuries under RIDDOR and must be reported when they arise from a work-related accident. The duty applies regardless of absence length for specified injuries.

Question 7Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

What is the purpose of a permit-to-work system when an excavator is to be operated near live overhead power lines?

  1. To guarantee that contact with the lines cannot occur
  2. To replace the need for a site-specific risk assessment
  3. To transfer legal responsibility from the employer to the operator
  4. To formally control and record the agreed safe system of work before the task starts Correct answer.

Explanation

A permit-to-work is an administrative control that documents authorisation, precautions and responsibilities for a high-risk task. It supports, but does not replace, the risk assessment and does not transfer legal duties.

Question 8Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

Which control measure is required first under the hierarchy of control when managing excavator noise exposure on site?

  1. Rotate operators to shorten individual exposure
  2. Issue hearing protection and rely on it alone
  3. Eliminate or reduce noise at source through engineering controls Correct answer.
  4. Display a warning sign at the site entrance

Explanation

The hierarchy of control requires risks to be eliminated or reduced at source before relying on personal protective equipment. Engineering controls such as silenced equipment or acoustic enclosures come before administrative measures and PPE.

Question 9Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

What does the Control of Noise at Work Regulations require when daily noise exposure is likely to reach the upper exposure action value?

  1. Rely on the machine's cab as the sole control measure
  2. Take no action until an employee reports hearing loss
  3. Provide hearing protection only on request from the operator
  4. Reduce exposure by means other than hearing protection and mark hearing protection zones Correct answer.

Explanation

At the upper exposure action value the regulations require exposure to be reduced so far as reasonably practicable by means other than hearing protection, and hearing protection zones must be designated. Hearing protection must also be provided and used.

Question 10Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

Under COSHH, what must an employer do before allowing an excavator to be refuelled on site using diesel stored in an IBC?

  1. Nothing, provided the operator wears gloves
  2. Only record the volume of fuel transferred
  3. Assess the risks and put in place controls such as spill containment and safe transfer Correct answer.
  4. Wait until an incident has occurred before acting

Explanation

COSHH requires a suitable and sufficient assessment of risks from hazardous substances, including diesel, and implementation of appropriate controls. Spill containment, safe transfer methods and fire precautions are typical controls.

Question 11Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

Which legislation specifically governs the management of waste such as excavated spoil and used oil filters from a site?

  1. The waste duty of care under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 Correct answer.
  2. The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992
  3. The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
  4. The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998

Explanation

The duty of care under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 requires waste to be stored, transferred and disposed of safely and only to authorised persons. The other regulations address equipment safety and PPE, not waste.

Question 12Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

What does the waste duty of care require when excavated spoil is transferred from site to a landfill?

  1. The spoil is given to any passing contractor free of charge
  2. The spoil is buried in a corner of the site without record
  3. A written description of the waste accompanies the transfer to an authorised carrier Correct answer.
  4. Only the site manager is told verbally where the spoil went

Explanation

The duty of care requires waste to be described in writing and transferred only to an authorised carrier with appropriate documentation. This ensures the waste is tracked and handled lawfully.

Question 13Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

Which regulation sets out the requirement to prevent or adequately control exposure to hazardous substances such as silica dust generated by excavator work?

  1. The Manual Handling Operations Regulations
  2. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations Correct answer.
  3. The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations
  4. The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations

Explanation

COSHH requires employers to prevent or adequately control exposure to hazardous substances, including respirable crystalline silica. Controls may include water suppression, extraction and respiratory protective equipment.

Question 14Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

What is the primary purpose of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations in relation to plant operations?

  1. To regulate the export of used machinery
  2. To license individual excavator operators
  3. To set the purchase price of construction plant
  4. To manage health and safety through the design and construction process including plant interfaces Correct answer.

Explanation

CDM places duties on clients, designers and contractors to manage health and safety risks throughout a project, including those arising from plant and site interfaces. It does not set prices, license operators or govern exports.

Question 15Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

A 360° excavator must travel across a site where pedestrians also move. Which control best reflects the requirements of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations for managing this interface?

  1. Separate plant and pedestrian routes with physical barriers where reasonably practicable Correct answer.
  2. Allow pedestrians to share the route provided they wear high-visibility clothing
  3. Rely on the operator sounding the horn continuously
  4. Instruct pedestrians to make eye contact with operators

Explanation

CDM and general duties require risks from plant movement to be managed, and physical separation of vehicles and pedestrians is a primary control. Relying only on warnings or PPE is less effective.

Question 16Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

Under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations, which event involving an excavator is a dangerous occurrence that must be reported?

  1. An operator completing a pre-use check with no defects found
  2. A scheduled engine oil change
  3. A routine track adjustment carried out during maintenance
  4. Collapse or overturning of the machine, or contact with overhead lines Correct answer.

Explanation

RIDDOR lists dangerous occurrences including the collapse or overturning of lifting machinery and contact with overhead power lines. Routine maintenance and defect-free checks are not reportable events.

Question 17Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

What does the term 'competent person' mean when applied to an excavator operator under health and safety law?

  1. Any person who holds a valid car driving licence
  2. A person nominated by the site receptionist
  3. A person with sufficient training, experience and knowledge to operate the machine safely Correct answer.
  4. A person who has watched a safety video once

Explanation

Competence combines training, experience and knowledge, and the person must be able to identify and control the risks of the task. Formal qualifications support but do not by themselves define competence.

Question 18Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

Which document should an operator consult to understand the specific hazards and controls for operating an excavator on a particular site?

  1. The machine's warranty certificate
  2. The site-specific risk assessment and method statement Correct answer.
  3. The supplier's delivery note
  4. The operator's employment contract

Explanation

The risk assessment and method statement set out the identified hazards and the controls to be applied for that site and task. Operators must be briefed on their contents before starting work.

Question 19Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

An excavator is fitted with reversing alarms and cameras. Under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations, what must the employer ensure about these devices?

  1. They are disconnected to reduce noise complaints
  2. They are tested only once at the point of purchase
  3. They are maintained in an efficient state and checked as part of the inspection regime Correct answer.
  4. They are operated only when the site manager is present

Explanation

PUWER requires work equipment, including safety devices, to be maintained in an efficient state and inspected as necessary. Disabling safety devices would increase risk and breach the duty.

Question 20Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

What is the key requirement of the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations regarding the excavator operating area?

  1. Appropriate warning signs and signals must be used where risks cannot be avoided or adequately reduced Correct answer.
  2. All signs must be written in at least three languages
  3. Only the site manager may read the signs
  4. Signs replace the need for physical barriers

Explanation

The regulations require safety signs and signals to be provided where risks remain after other controls, to warn and instruct people. Signs support but do not replace physical controls.

Question 21Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

Which control is required under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations when an operator must repeatedly climb into and out of an excavator cab?

  1. Record the number of climbs in a log book only
  2. Avoid the need for manual handling where reasonably practicable and assess the remaining risk Correct answer.
  3. Instruct the operator to move faster to reduce exposure time
  4. Provide gloves and take no other action

Explanation

The Manual Handling Operations Regulations require avoidance of hazardous manual handling so far as reasonably practicable, followed by assessment and reduction of risk. Access arrangements and cab design are relevant controls.

Question 22Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

Under the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations, when must an employer provide PPE to an excavator operator?

  1. Only during the winter months
  2. As the first and only control measure for all risks
  3. When risks cannot be adequately controlled by other means Correct answer.
  4. Only when the operator requests it in writing

Explanation

PPE is a last resort and must be provided when risks remain after other controls have been applied. It must be suitable, maintained and used, and employees must be trained in its use.

Question 23Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

What is the employer's duty under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 regarding the escape of diesel from a site storage tank?

  1. Take reasonable steps to prevent pollution and to contain and clean up any escape Correct answer.
  2. Ignore small leaks as they are not regulated
  3. Report the escape only if it reaches a river
  4. Transfer responsibility to the fuel supplier once delivered

Explanation

The duty of care and pollution prevention principles require reasonable steps to prevent escapes and to contain and remediate any that occur. Small leaks can cumulatively cause significant pollution.

Question 24Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to plant operations

Which requirement applies to the selection of an excavator for work near an embankment where there is a risk of ground collapse?

  1. The operator should work as close to the edge as possible
  2. The heaviest available machine should always be used
  3. Ground conditions need only be considered after a collapse
  4. The machine and working method must be selected and planned to control the risk of instability Correct answer.

Explanation

Health and safety law requires risks from ground instability to be assessed and controlled through machine selection, working methods and exclusion zones. Proximity to edges and ground conditions are central to the planning.

Question 25Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

When must a 360° excavator operator complete a pre-use inspection of the machine?

  1. After the first hour of operation
  2. Only when the machine has been repaired
  3. Once a week on a nominated day
  4. At the start of each shift before operating Correct answer.

Explanation

Pre-use checks are a daily requirement to identify defects such as leaks, damaged tracks, or faulty alarms before work begins. They must be carried out at the start of each shift by the operator.

Question 26Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

What is the primary purpose of a 360° excavator's slew alarm?

  1. To alert the operator that the bucket is overloaded
  2. To warn people nearby that the upper structure is about to rotate Correct answer.
  3. To indicate that the machine's engine is overheating
  4. To signal that the excavator is reversing

Explanation

The slew alarm sounds when the operator initiates rotation, warning ground personnel to stay clear of the slewing radius. It is a key control for the crush hazard created by the rotating upper structure.

Question 27Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

Which factor most increases the risk of a 360° excavator tipping over during lifting operations?

  1. Traveling with the bucket close to the ground
  2. Operating with the boom extended over the side of the tracks Correct answer.
  3. Using a quick-hitch coupler
  4. Keeping the machine on level ground

Explanation

Lifting over the side reduces stability because the machine's tipping axis is closer to the load. Load charts specify lower capacities for side lifts, and exceeding them can cause overturning.

Question 28Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

What is the safest way to manage the hazard of pedestrians entering the working area of a 360° excavator?

  1. Allow pedestrians to cross behind the machine when it is stationary
  2. Establish a segregated pedestrian route and exclusion zone Correct answer.
  3. Instruct pedestrians to make eye contact with the operator before entering
  4. Rely on the operator to stop the machine if someone approaches

Explanation

Physical segregation through barriers and defined walkways removes the hazard at source and is more reliable than behavioural controls. Exclusion zones keep people outside the slewing and travel paths.

Question 29Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

A 360° excavator is working near an overhead power line. What is the minimum action required before work begins?

  1. Confirm the line's voltage and establish a safe clearance distance Correct answer.
  2. Ask the operator to lower the boom when passing underneath
  3. Fit a proximity warning device to the machine and proceed
  4. Schedule the work for a dry day to reduce risk

Explanation

The voltage determines the safe clearance distance; this must be established with the line owner before work starts. Where clearance cannot be maintained, the line should be isolated or diverted.

Question 30Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

What should an operator do if the excavator's travel alarm fails during a pre-use check?

  1. Continue to use the machine but sound the horn when moving
  2. Use a banksman for all movements instead of the alarm
  3. Record the defect in the logbook and continue working
  4. Report the defect and take the machine out of service Correct answer.

Explanation

A failed travel alarm is a safety-critical defect; the machine must be isolated and reported until repaired. Substituting manual methods does not restore the required control.

Question 31Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

Which of the following is the most effective control for the hazard of a 360° excavator working on a slope?

  1. Use the backhoe to pull the machine uphill
  2. Operate with the tracks across the slope and the bucket lowered Correct answer.
  3. Travel at maximum speed to reduce time on the slope
  4. Keep the upper structure slewed to the side

Explanation

Working across the slope with the bucket lowered improves stability and provides a quick lowering point. The manufacturer's slope limits must also be observed.

Question 32Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

What is the main hazard associated with a quick-hitch coupler on a 360° excavator?

  1. It reduces the need for daily inspections
  2. It prevents the use of a slew alarm
  3. It increases the machine's lifting capacity
  4. The attachment may detach unexpectedly if not correctly engaged Correct answer.

Explanation

Incorrectly engaged quick-hitches have caused attachments to fall, striking people nearby. The locking mechanism must be checked and confirmed after every attachment change.

Question 33Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

During a lifting operation with a 360° excavator, who should be in control of the lift?

  1. The operator acting alone to maintain concentration
  2. A appointed banksman or slinger directing the operator Correct answer.
  3. Any nearby worker who can see the load
  4. The site manager from the office

Explanation

Lifting operations require a competent person to direct the operator, ensuring the load is secure and the path is clear. The operator cannot see all blind spots and relies on the banksman.

Question 34Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

What does the load chart of a 360° excavator primarily indicate?

  1. The required track tension for different ground conditions
  2. The fuel consumption at full load
  3. The safe lifting capacity at given radii and configurations Correct answer.
  4. The maximum travel speed on site roads

Explanation

The load chart specifies capacity limits based on boom length, radius, and whether the lift is over the front or side. Exceeding these limits can cause tipping or structural failure.

Question 35Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

Which of the following best describes the blind spot hazard on a 360° excavator?

  1. The area covered by the rear-view camera display
  2. The zone illuminated by the machine's work lights
  3. Areas around the machine that the operator cannot see directly or via mirrors Correct answer.
  4. The area directly beneath the operator's seat

Explanation

Blind spots are zones hidden from the operator's view by machine components or distance. They are a major cause of struck-by incidents and must be managed by segregation and aids.

Question 36Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

What is the correct action when a 360° excavator operator loses sight of the banksman during a lift?

  1. Stop the operation until communication is re-established Correct answer.
  2. Lower the load and wait for a whistle signal
  3. Continue slowly while sounding the horn
  4. Ask another worker to take over signalling

Explanation

Loss of communication means the operator cannot be sure the load path is clear. The safe response is to stop and re-establish contact before proceeding.

Question 37Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

Why is it important to maintain a safe distance from the edge of an excavation when operating a 360° excavator?

  1. The slew alarm is less effective near edges
  2. The bucket cannot reach beyond the tracks
  3. The weight of the machine can cause the edge to collapse Correct answer.
  4. The machine's exhaust may damage the excavation

Explanation

Excavator weight and vibration can trigger edge collapse, especially in loose or wet ground. A setback distance based on ground conditions and depth is required.

Question 38Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

What is the purpose of a lift plan for a 360° excavator lifting operation?

  1. To list the names of all site visitors
  2. To calculate the operator's overtime
  3. To record the machine's service history
  4. To identify hazards, loads, and controls before the lift Correct answer.

Explanation

A lift plan assesses the load, radius, ground conditions, and personnel involved to ensure the lift is safe. It is a proactive risk assessment for the specific operation.

Question 39Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

Which ground condition presents the greatest risk of excavator instability?

  1. Dry, compacted gravel
  2. Recently backfilled ground with unknown compaction Correct answer.
  3. Firm, level clay
  4. Sloping but solid rock

Explanation

Uncompacted backfill can collapse under the machine's weight, causing it to sink or overturn. Ground conditions must be assessed before travel or working.

Question 40Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

What should be done before refuelling a 360° excavator?

  1. Keep the engine running to maintain hydraulic pressure
  2. Shut down the engine and remove the ignition key Correct answer.
  3. Refuel while the machine is slewing
  4. Allow smoking only if a fire extinguisher is nearby

Explanation

Refuelling with the engine off reduces the risk of ignition and accidental movement. Smoking and other ignition sources must be prohibited in the refuelling area.

Question 41Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

How does a 360° excavator's rear counterweight create a hazard during slewing?

  1. It increases fuel consumption
  2. It reduces the machine's lifting capacity
  3. It blocks the operator's forward view
  4. It can strike people or objects in the tail swing radius Correct answer.

Explanation

The counterweight extends beyond the tracks at the rear and can crush anyone in its path during rotation. The tail swing radius must be barriered off.

Question 42Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

What is the first action if a hydraulic hose bursts on a 360° excavator?

  1. Place a bucket under the leak to catch the oil
  2. Continue working until the end of the shift
  3. Attempt to drive the machine to the workshop
  4. Lower the attachment to the ground and shut down the engine Correct answer.

Explanation

A burst hose can cause sudden loss of control and creates a fire and environmental hazard. The machine should be brought to a safe state and the defect reported.

Question 43Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

What is the recommended position for the excavator bucket when the machine is parked?

  1. Resting on the cab roof
  2. Raised to full height
  3. Lowered to the ground Correct answer.
  4. Slewed to the side

Explanation

Lowering the bucket to the ground removes stored hydraulic energy and prevents accidental lowering. It also reduces the machine's footprint and improves stability.

Question 44Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

Which of the following is a suitable control for reducing dust exposure when a 360° excavator is working?

  1. Use water suppression or dust extraction on the machine Correct answer.
  2. Ask workers to hold their breath when the machine passes
  3. Increase engine speed to blow dust away
  4. Work only when the wind is blowing towards workers

Explanation

Water suppression or extraction controls dust at source, protecting operators and nearby workers. Respiratory hazards must be managed by engineering controls first.

Question 45Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

What is the main risk of using a 360° excavator to lift a load that exceeds the load chart capacity?

  1. The tracks will automatically widen
  2. The machine may overturn or suffer structural failure Correct answer.
  3. The hydraulic oil will freeze
  4. The slew alarm will sound continuously

Explanation

Exceeding capacity overloads the boom, cylinders, and tipping stability, potentially causing catastrophic failure. Load charts must be strictly followed.

Question 46Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

Why should an excavator operator avoid working with the machine's tracks parallel to a trench edge?

  1. It reduces the distance from the edge and increases collapse risk Correct answer.
  2. It causes the slew alarm to malfunction
  3. It improves stability but reduces visibility
  4. It prevents the bucket from reaching the trench

Explanation

Tracks parallel to the edge concentrate weight closer to the excavation, raising the likelihood of edge collapse. Working perpendicular with a setback is safer.

Question 47Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

What is the purpose of a daily briefing (toolbox talk) for excavator operations?

  1. To test the operator's driving skills
  2. To communicate site-specific hazards and controls to the team Correct answer.
  3. To record machine hours for billing
  4. To replace the need for pre-use inspections

Explanation

Toolbox talks ensure everyone is aware of the day's hazards, changes, and control measures. They are a communication control, not a substitute for physical checks.

Question 48Site safety awareness, hazard identification and risk assessment

What should be done if a 360° excavator operator experiences a near miss with a pedestrian?

  1. Report it and investigate to identify control failures Correct answer.
  2. Discipline the pedestrian without further action
  3. Continue work and mention it at the end of the project
  4. Ignore it because no one was injured

Explanation

Near misses are free lessons; reporting and investigating them allows control failures to be corrected before a serious incident occurs. They are a key part of a positive safety culture.

Question 49Personal protective equipment, site signage and safe systems of work

What is the primary purpose of a daily pre-use inspection on a 360° excavator?

  1. To identify defects and confirm the machine is safe before work starts Correct answer.
  2. To decide which attachment to fit for the shift
  3. To check the operator's competence card is in date
  4. To record the hours the machine has worked for billing

Explanation

A pre-use check is a safety control: the operator looks for damage, leaks, worn parts and fluid levels so defects are found before the machine is used. It is not a commercial or administrative record.

Question 50Personal protective equipment, site signage and safe systems of work

On a site where the excavator is slewing near pedestrians, which control is the most effective first measure?

  1. Relying on the operator to sound the horn before slewing
  2. Asking pedestrians to wear high-visibility vests
  3. Placing a sign on the machine warning of slewing
  4. Physical separation such as barriers and exclusion zones Correct answer.

Explanation

The hierarchy of control favours eliminating or physically separating people from the hazard over relying on warnings or behaviour. Barriers and exclusion zones keep pedestrians out of the slew radius entirely.