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IOSH Working Safely practice questions

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Question 1Introducing working safely

Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, which duty applies to every employee at work?

  1. To take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others affected by their acts or omissions Correct answer.
  2. To provide free personal protective equipment to all visitors on site
  3. To write the company health and safety policy and review it annually
  4. To report every near miss to the enforcing authority within 24 hours

Explanation

Section 7 of the Act places a personal duty on employees to take reasonable care of themselves and of other people who may be affected by what they do or fail to do at work. It also requires them to cooperate with their employer on health and safety matters. Writing the policy and providing equipment are employer duties, not employee duties.

Question 2Introducing working safely

What is the main purpose of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974?

  1. To set out a framework of general duties to protect people at work and others affected by work activities Correct answer.
  2. To replace all workplace risk assessments with a single national checklist
  3. To prescribe the maximum fine for each individual workplace accident
  4. To list every hazardous substance and its safe exposure limit

Explanation

The Act is enabling legislation that sets broad goals and general duties rather than detailed rules. Specific hazards, exposure limits and procedures are covered by later regulations and approved codes of practice made under it. This is why it is described as a framework of goals rather than a rulebook.

Question 3Introducing working safely

A worker notices a damaged electrical cable on a portable drill. What is the most appropriate first action?

  1. Wrap the damaged section in tape and continue using the drill until the shift ends
  2. Stop using the drill, isolate it and report the defect so it can be repaired or replaced Correct answer.
  3. Continue working but stand on a rubber mat to reduce the shock risk
  4. Put the drill back in the cupboard so someone else can deal with it later

Explanation

Damaged cables are a foreseeable cause of electric shock and fire, so the equipment should be taken out of use and reported. Isolating it prevents anyone else from plugging it in and using it. Reporting allows the employer to arrange repair or replacement and to check whether other equipment is affected.

Question 4Introducing working safely

Why is it important for workers to report near misses?

  1. They are only useful for statistics and have no practical safety value
  2. They remove the need for the employer to carry out risk assessments
  3. They reveal weaknesses in controls before someone is actually harmed Correct answer.
  4. They automatically transfer legal liability to the person who reports them

Explanation

A near miss is an unplanned event that did not cause harm but had the potential to do so. Reporting it lets the organisation investigate why the controls failed and fix the problem before a more serious incident occurs. Near-miss reporting is therefore a proactive learning tool, not just a numbers exercise.

Question 5Introducing working safely

Which statement best describes the term 'hazard'?

  1. A legal penalty imposed after an accident
  2. A documented procedure for evacuating a building
  3. The likelihood that harm will occur and how severe it would be
  4. Something with the potential to cause harm Correct answer.

Explanation

A hazard is a source or situation with the potential to cause harm, such as a trailing cable, a chemical or a moving machine part. Risk is different: it combines the likelihood of harm with its severity. Keeping these two ideas separate is central to working safely.

Question 6Introducing working safely

What does the 'hierarchy of control' tell a worker to do when eliminating a risk is not practicable?

  1. Ignore the hazard until an accident shows whether it matters
  2. Go straight to issuing personal protective equipment because it is the most reliable option
  3. Rely on training and warning signs as the first choice for every hazard
  4. Work down the ranked options, such as substitution, engineering controls and then administrative controls, before relying on PPE Correct answer.

Explanation

The hierarchy ranks controls from most to least effective: eliminate, substitute, engineering controls, administrative controls and finally PPE. You work down the list and use the highest practicable option, often combining measures. PPE sits at the bottom because it protects only the wearer and depends on correct use.

Question 7Introducing working safely

A worker is asked to carry out a task they believe is unsafe. What is the most appropriate response under the principles of working safely?

  1. Stop, raise the concern with their supervisor and do not proceed until the risk is resolved Correct answer.
  2. Complete the task quickly to minimise the time spent exposed to the risk
  3. Ask a colleague to do the task instead so the work still gets done
  4. Carry out the task because a supervisor's instruction always overrides safety concerns

Explanation

Workers have a duty to take reasonable care and to cooperate with their employer, and they should not carry out work they reasonably believe is unsafe. Raising the concern allows the employer to reassess and put proper controls in place. Passing the task to a colleague simply transfers the risk to another person.

Question 8Introducing working safely

What is the key purpose of a workplace risk assessment?

  1. To identify hazards, evaluate the risks and decide on suitable controls Correct answer.
  2. To allocate blame to individual workers after an incident
  3. To replace the need for worker training and supervision
  4. To provide a written record that satisfies insurers regardless of content

Explanation

A risk assessment is a systematic process: spot the hazards, decide who might be harmed and how, evaluate the risks and put controls in place. It should be recorded where significant and reviewed when circumstances change. Its purpose is prevention, not paperwork or blame.

Question 9Introducing working safely

Which of the following is an example of a safe system of work?

  1. A documented sequence of steps, controls and checks agreed for a task before it starts Correct answer.
  2. A poster on the wall listing the company's disciplinary rules
  3. An informal habit passed between experienced workers over time
  4. A verbal instruction given once to a new starter during induction

Explanation

A safe system of work sets out the agreed method for carrying out a task, including the sequence of steps, the controls required and any checks or permits. It is planned in advance and communicated to those doing the work. Informal habits and one-off verbal instructions are not reliable substitutes.

Question 10Introducing working safely

Why should personal protective equipment be considered the last line of defence?

  1. It is illegal to use PPE in most workplaces
  2. It removes the hazard at source rather than isolating people from it
  3. It protects only the wearer and relies on correct selection, fit and consistent use Correct answer.
  4. It is always more expensive than engineering controls

Explanation

PPE sits at the bottom of the hierarchy because it does not remove the hazard; it only reduces exposure for the person wearing it. Its effectiveness depends on the right item being selected, fitting properly, being maintained and being worn all the time. Engineering controls protect everyone affected, including those who forget their equipment.

Question 11Introducing working safely

A worker sees a colleague about to enter a clearly signed restricted area without authorisation. What should the worker do?

  1. Follow the colleague in to check whether the area is really dangerous
  2. Wait until the end of the shift and mention it in passing
  3. Warn the colleague and alert the person in charge of the area Correct answer.
  4. Say nothing because it is the colleague's personal choice

Explanation

Everyone has a duty to take reasonable care of others affected by their acts or omissions, so intervening early can prevent harm. Warning the colleague and informing the person responsible allows the situation to be controlled promptly. Following them in would add a second person to the danger.

Question 12Introducing working safely

What is the main role of a workplace safety representative?

  1. To act as the enforcing authority for the site
  2. To carry out all risk assessments personally and sign them off
  3. To discipline workers who breach safety rules
  4. To represent workers' interests on health and safety matters and raise concerns with the employer Correct answer.

Explanation

Safety representatives are appointed by recognised trade unions or elected by workers to represent their interests on health and safety. They can raise concerns, inspect the workplace and consult with the employer. They do not replace management's responsibility for risk assessment or enforcement.

Question 13Introducing working safely

Which of these is an example of an unsafe act rather than an unsafe condition?

  1. A missing guard on a bench saw
  2. A badly lit stairway
  3. Running across a wet workshop floor Correct answer.
  4. A frayed cable left on a walkway

Explanation

An unsafe act is something a person does that creates or increases risk, such as running on a wet floor. Unsafe conditions are features of the workplace, equipment or environment, such as missing guards, damaged cables or poor lighting. Recognising both helps target the right kind of control.

Question 14Introducing working safely

Why do organisations need a health and safety policy?

  1. It states the organisation's commitment, responsibilities and arrangements for managing health and safety Correct answer.
  2. It is only required by insurance companies and has no legal basis
  3. It is a list of every accident that has ever happened on site
  4. It replaces the need for individual risk assessments

Explanation

Employers with five or more employees must have a written health and safety policy under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The policy sets out the general statement of intent, the organisation of responsibilities and the arrangements for controlling risks. It guides day-to-day decisions but does not replace task-specific risk assessments.

Question 15Introducing working safely

A worker is unsure how to use a new piece of equipment safely. What is the best course of action?

  1. Use the equipment carefully and learn from any mistakes as they occur
  2. Read the manufacturer's manual at home and begin using it the next day
  3. Ask for training and instruction before using the equipment Correct answer.
  4. Ask a colleague to show them once and then start work

Explanation

Employers must provide adequate information, instruction, training and supervision, and workers should not operate unfamiliar equipment without it. Asking for training ensures the worker understands the controls and the risks. Learning through mistakes on live equipment risks injury to the worker and others.

Question 16Introducing working safely

What is the purpose of consultation with workers on health and safety matters?

  1. To draw on workers' practical knowledge so risks are identified and controls work in practice Correct answer.
  2. To delay decisions until everyone agrees unanimously
  3. To transfer the employer's legal duties to the workforce
  4. To create a written record for use in disciplinary hearings

Explanation

Workers often know best how tasks are really done and where controls break down. Consultation uses that knowledge to improve risk assessments and make controls realistic. It does not remove the employer's legal duties or require unanimous agreement.

Question 17Introducing working safely

What is the primary reason for keeping a workplace tidy and free from obstructions?

  1. To improve the speed at which work can be completed
  2. To make the site look presentable to visitors
  3. To reduce slips, trips and falls and to keep escape routes usable Correct answer.
  4. To reduce the amount of cleaning staff required

Explanation

Good housekeeping removes the everyday causes of slips, trips and falls, which are among the most common workplace injuries. Clear walkways and exits also ensure people can escape quickly in an emergency. Appearance and efficiency may improve as a side effect, but the primary reason is safety.

Question 18Introducing working safely

Which of these best describes a 'competent person' in the context of health and safety?

  1. A manager who holds the budget for safety equipment
  2. A worker who has never had an accident
  3. Someone with sufficient training, experience and knowledge to carry out the task safely Correct answer.
  4. Anyone who has worked for the company for more than five years

Explanation

Competence combines the training, experience and knowledge needed to perform a task safely and to recognise when to stop. Length of service alone does not make someone competent, and neither does a clean accident record. Competence must be relevant to the task being carried out.

Question 19Introducing working safely

Why is it important to record and investigate accidents and incidents at work?

  1. To satisfy curiosity about how often equipment fails
  2. To identify underlying causes and prevent similar events recurring Correct answer.
  3. To build a case for dismissing the workers involved
  4. To avoid the need to report incidents to the enforcing authority

Explanation

Investigation looks beyond the immediate event to find the root causes, such as poor design, missing controls or inadequate training. Correcting those causes prevents recurrence and improves the safety management system. Recording also supports legal reporting duties, but it does not remove them.

Question 20Introducing working safely

A worker is asked to sign a risk assessment they do not understand. What is the appropriate action?

  1. Rewrite the assessment personally and put it into use
  2. Sign it anyway because understanding is the manager's responsibility
  3. Refuse to sign and walk off site without explanation
  4. Ask for the assessment to be explained before signing or working to it Correct answer.

Explanation

Workers need to understand the hazards and controls that affect their work, so asking for an explanation is reasonable and supports safe working. Signing without understanding defeats the purpose of the assessment. Walking off site or rewriting documents without authority does not resolve the issue.

Question 21Introducing working safely

Which of the following is the best example of an engineering control?

  1. Issuing ear defenders to machine operators
  2. Training staff in the correct lifting technique
  3. Displaying a warning sign at the workshop entrance
  4. Fitting a fixed guard around a rotating shaft Correct answer.

Explanation

Engineering controls physically change the equipment or environment to reduce exposure, such as guards, interlocks and local exhaust ventilation. They rank above administrative controls and PPE in the hierarchy because they protect everyone affected without relying on individual behaviour. Signs, training and PPE all depend on people acting correctly.

Question 22Introducing working safely

What does the term 'safety culture' refer to in a workplace?

  1. The shared attitudes, values and behaviours that shape how safety is actually treated day to day Correct answer.
  2. The total number of risk assessments held on file
  3. The number of safety posters displayed around the site
  4. The size of the health and safety department

Explanation

Safety culture is about what people actually believe and do, not just what documents say. A positive culture encourages reporting, learning and challenge without fear of blame. Posters, headcount and document counts are visible artefacts but do not by themselves demonstrate culture.

Question 23Introducing working safely

A worker has a reasonable belief that a task presents an imminent and serious danger. What protection does UK health and safety law give them if they stop work?

  1. They should not be subjected to detriment for taking appropriate action to protect themselves or others Correct answer.
  2. They can be dismissed immediately for refusing a reasonable instruction
  3. They must continue working until a formal written complaint is investigated
  4. They lose their right to raise the concern again in future

Explanation

Employees who take appropriate action in the face of serious and imminent danger are protected from detriment under the Employment Rights Act 1996. This supports the principle that no one should be forced to work in conditions they reasonably believe are unsafe. Raising the concern does not remove their right to raise it again if the problem persists.

Question 24Introducing working safely

Why is a written risk assessment alone insufficient to control risk?

  1. Because assessments become invalid as soon as a new worker joins
  2. Because only external consultants can produce valid assessments
  3. Because written assessments are not recognised in UK law
  4. The controls it describes must be implemented, communicated and reviewed to be effective Correct answer.

Explanation

A risk assessment is only a plan; the actual protection comes from putting the controls into practice and keeping them up to date. Workers must know and understand the controls, and the assessment must be reviewed when the work, equipment or people change. A document sitting in a folder does nothing to reduce harm.

Question 25Introducing working safely

A supervisor tells a worker to skip a safety check 'just this once' to meet a deadline. What does this situation most clearly illustrate?

  1. A conflict between production pressure and safety controls that must be challenged Correct answer.
  2. A minor issue that only matters if an accident occurs
  3. A reasonable adjustment because deadlines always override procedures
  4. An example of good teamwork under pressure

Explanation

Pressure to meet deadlines is a common source of unsafe acts, and shortcuts on safety checks can remove the barriers that prevent harm. Workers should challenge the instruction and escalate the concern if necessary. Good safety culture treats controls as non-negotiable, not as optional extras to be traded for speed.

Question 26Introducing working safely

Under UK health and safety law, who has the primary duty to ensure the health, safety and welfare of employees at work?

  1. The equipment supplier
  2. The employee
  3. The safety representative
  4. The employer Correct answer.

Explanation

The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 places the main general duty on the employer to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of employees. Employees also have duties, but these are secondary and limited to their own conduct and cooperation.

Question 27Introducing working safely

What does the phrase 'so far as is reasonably practicable' mean when applied to controlling a workplace hazard?

  1. The employer may ignore the risk if workers accept it
  2. The risk must be reduced unless the cost is grossly disproportionate to the benefit Correct answer.
  3. The control must be applied only if it costs nothing
  4. The control is required only after an accident has occurred

Explanation

Reasonably practicable requires weighing the risk against the time, trouble and cost of controlling it. A control is expected unless the sacrifice is grossly disproportionate to the reduction in risk achieved. Cost alone does not justify inaction where the risk is serious.

Question 28Introducing working safely

Which statement best describes the difference between a hazard and a risk?

  1. A hazard is always visible; a risk is always invisible
  2. A hazard is the likelihood of harm; a risk is the source of harm
  3. A hazard is a source of potential harm; a risk is the chance of harm occurring with its severity Correct answer.
  4. A hazard only exists in factories; a risk exists in offices

Explanation

A hazard is anything with the potential to cause harm, such as a trailing cable or a chemical. Risk combines the likelihood of that harm occurring with how severe the outcome could be. Keeping the two ideas distinct is central to assessing and controlling workplace danger.

Question 29Introducing working safely

A worker notices that a guard on a bench saw is loose and reports it to the supervisor. Which type of control does the guard represent?

  1. Personal protective equipment
  2. An administrative control
  3. An engineering control Correct answer.
  4. A permit to work

Explanation

A machine guard is a physical, engineered barrier that separates the worker from the moving part, so it is an engineering control. Engineering controls sit high in the hierarchy because they protect everyone without relying on individual behaviour. Reporting the loose guard allows it to be repaired before someone is injured.

Question 30Introducing working safely

What is the main purpose of the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) in the UK?

  1. To replace the employer's duty to assess risk
  2. To require certain serious incidents at work to be reported to the enforcing authority Correct answer.
  3. To require every worker to hold a safety certificate
  4. To set the maximum fine for safety offences

Explanation

RIDDOR requires employers and others in control of work premises to report specified serious injuries, occupational diseases and dangerous occurrences to the relevant enforcing authority. The reports help regulators investigate and identify wider trends. RIDDOR does not set fines, certify workers or replace risk assessment.

Question 31Introducing working safely

A worker is new to a site and has not yet received an induction. What is the most appropriate action before starting work?

  1. Read the safety policy at home that evening
  2. Start work and ask questions later if problems arise
  3. Ask a colleague to demonstrate the job once
  4. Attend the site induction and confirm understanding before starting Correct answer.

Explanation

A site induction gives newcomers essential information about site hazards, emergency arrangements and local rules before they are exposed to risk. Confirming understanding ensures the information has been received correctly. Starting work without induction leaves the worker and others exposed to unknown hazards.

Question 32Introducing working safely

Which of the following is the best example of a permit-to-work system?

  1. A signed authorisation controlling high-risk work such as hot work in a confined space Correct answer.
  2. A record of annual leave requests
  3. A list of workers who have joined the company
  4. A poster showing the location of fire extinguishers

Explanation

A permit-to-work is a formal documented system that authorises specific high-risk tasks under defined conditions and confirms precautions are in place before work starts. It is used for activities such as confined space entry, hot work and work on live systems. Ordinary records or posters do not control risk in this way.

Question 33Introducing working safely

Why does the law require employers to consult workers on health and safety matters?

  1. To transfer legal liability to the workforce
  2. To avoid the need to provide training
  3. To draw on workers' practical knowledge and gain commitment to controls Correct answer.
  4. To satisfy insurers only

Explanation

Consultation brings workers' hands-on knowledge of the job into decisions about risk control and helps ensure measures are workable and accepted. It also supports a positive safety culture because people are more likely to follow arrangements they helped shape. It does not transfer liability or replace training.

Question 34Introducing working safely

What is the key difference between an 'accident' and a 'near miss'?

  1. An accident only involves machinery
  2. A near miss causes harm; an accident does not
  3. An accident causes harm; a near miss did not but could have Correct answer.
  4. Both terms mean the same thing

Explanation

An accident is an unplanned event that results in injury, ill health or damage. A near miss is an incident where harm did not occur but the potential was there. Reporting near misses is valuable because they reveal weaknesses before someone is hurt.

Question 35Introducing working safely

A worker is offered a task that requires a licence they do not hold. What is the correct response?

  1. Carry out the task carefully without the licence
  2. Proceed if the task is quick
  3. Decline the task and inform the supervisor that the required competence is missing Correct answer.
  4. Ask another unlicensed colleague to do it

Explanation

Some tasks legally require a specific licence or competence, and carrying them out without it endangers the worker and others. The correct action is to decline and raise the gap with the supervisor so a competent person can be arranged. Speed or care do not replace the required qualification.

Question 36Introducing working safely

Which of the following best describes a 'hazardous substance' under COSHH?

  1. A substance or mixture that could harm health, such as a toxic or irritant chemical Correct answer.
  2. Only substances labelled with a skull symbol
  3. Any substance stored in a metal container
  4. Any substance used in a kitchen

Explanation

COSHH covers substances and mixtures that could harm health, including toxic, harmful, irritant, corrosive and sensitising materials, as well as dusts and fumes. It is not limited to the most severe label or to particular containers. The assessment must reflect how the substance is actually used.

Question 37Introducing working safely

What should a worker do first if they discover a small fire in a waste bin?

  1. Raise the alarm and follow the emergency procedure Correct answer.
  2. Attempt to fight it regardless of training
  3. Finish the current task before acting
  4. Open windows to clear the smoke and continue

Explanation

The first priority is to raise the alarm so others can respond and evacuate if needed, then follow the emergency procedure. Fighting a fire should only be attempted if trained and it is safe to do so. Delaying action or ignoring smoke puts people at risk.

Question 38Introducing working safely

Why is it important to follow a safe system of work even when a task feels routine?

  1. Because familiarity can lead to shortcuts that reintroduce risk Correct answer.
  2. Because routines are always dangerous
  3. Because it reduces the need for training
  4. Because supervisors watch every task

Explanation

When tasks become routine, people may skip steps or overlook hazards because the risk feels familiar. Safe systems of work are designed to control identified risks and depend on being followed consistently. Following them does not reduce the need for training, and supervision is not the reason.

Question 39Introducing working safely

What does the term 'reasonably foreseeable' mean when identifying hazards?

  1. Only hazards that have already caused an injury
  2. Hazards that only managers can see
  3. Hazards that a sensible person could anticipate arising from the activity Correct answer.
  4. Hazards that are impossible to imagine

Explanation

Reasonably foreseeable hazards are those a sensible person could anticipate from the nature of the work and its surroundings. Risk assessment should focus on these realistic possibilities rather than only past incidents. Imagined or impossible events are not the basis for prioritising controls.

Question 40Introducing working safely

A worker develops a skin rash after handling a cleaning product without gloves. Which category of occupational ill health does this represent?

  1. A physical injury from an accident
  2. A work-related skin condition caused by a hazardous substance Correct answer.
  3. A near miss with no health effect
  4. A dangerous occurrence under RIDDOR

Explanation

Contact dermatitis and similar rashes are work-related skin conditions caused by exposure to hazardous substances. They are examples of occupational ill health rather than a sudden accidental injury. Reporting the condition allows the cause to be investigated and controls improved.

Question 41Introducing working safely

Which of the following is an example of a workplace hazard that is not easily seen?

  1. A trailing cable across a walkway
  2. A stack of boxes blocking a doorway
  3. Excessive noise from machinery Correct answer.
  4. A wet floor with a warning sign

Explanation

Noise is a hazard that cannot be seen and may cause hearing damage gradually without obvious warning. Visible hazards such as cables, wet floors and blocked doorways are more readily noticed. This is why noise assessments and hearing protection programmes are needed.

Question 42Introducing working safely

What is the main reason for providing health surveillance to workers exposed to certain hazards?

  1. To satisfy visitors' curiosity
  2. To detect early signs of work-related ill health so action can be taken Correct answer.
  3. To decide who should be dismissed
  4. To replace the need for exposure controls

Explanation

Health surveillance checks for early signs of work-related ill health, such as hearing loss or dermatitis, so that controls can be reviewed and harm prevented from worsening. It supports, but never replaces, measures to control exposure. It is not a tool for dismissal or entertainment.

Question 43Introducing working safely

A worker is asked to work alone at night in a remote area. Which factor most increases the risk in this situation?

  1. The colour of the worker's clothing
  2. The worker's preference for night shifts
  3. Delayed help if an incident occurs Correct answer.
  4. The length of the worker's lunch break

Explanation

Lone working in a remote area at night increases risk because help may be delayed if the worker is injured or becomes unwell. Employers should assess lone working and put arrangements in place such as check-in systems and communication. Clothing colour and break length are not the main risk factor.

Question 44Introducing working safely

What is the purpose of a workplace 'near miss' reporting scheme?

  1. To replace the need for risk assessment
  2. To capture warning signs so underlying causes can be corrected before harm occurs Correct answer.
  3. To reduce the number of accident reports
  4. To punish workers who make mistakes

Explanation

Near miss reporting captures events that could have caused harm, revealing weaknesses in controls before an actual injury happens. Investigating these reports allows underlying causes to be corrected. The scheme is not for blame, and it does not replace risk assessment.

Question 45Introducing working safely

Which of the following best describes the role of a 'safety committee' in a workplace?

  1. To provide a forum for workers and management to discuss and improve health and safety Correct answer.
  2. To replace the enforcing authority
  3. To carry out all risk assessments personally
  4. To discipline workers who breach safety rules

Explanation

A safety committee brings together worker representatives and management to discuss safety concerns, review arrangements and agree improvements. It supports consultation and does not replace the employer's duty to assess risk. Discipline and enforcement remain separate functions.

Question 46Introducing working safely

What does 'risk control' aim to achieve?

  1. To eliminate or reduce risk to as low a level as is reasonably practicable Correct answer.
  2. To increase productivity regardless of safety
  3. To remove all paperwork from the workplace
  4. To transfer risk to workers

Explanation

Risk control aims to eliminate hazards where possible and otherwise reduce risk to as low a level as is reasonably practicable. It uses the hierarchy of control, starting with elimination and substitution before relying on administrative measures or PPE. It does not mean transferring risk to workers.

Question 47Introducing working safely

A worker is using a ladder for a short task at height. Which practice best reflects safe ladder use?

  1. Maintaining three points of contact and keeping the ladder secure Correct answer.
  2. Standing on the top step to gain extra height
  3. Overreaching to complete the task faster
  4. Using the ladder as a work platform for heavy lifting

Explanation

Safe ladder use includes securing the ladder, maintaining three points of contact and avoiding overreaching. Ladders are suitable only for short-duration, low-risk work where a safer alternative is not justified. Standing on the top step or carrying heavy loads increases the risk of falls.

Question 48Introducing working safely

Why should an employer keep a record of risk assessments?

  1. To replace consultation with workers
  2. To satisfy only the fire service
  3. To avoid the need to review them
  4. To provide evidence that risks have been identified and controls planned Correct answer.

Explanation

Written records provide evidence that significant risks have been identified and controls planned, and they help with review and communication. They do not remove the need to review assessments when circumstances change. Records also support consultation and shared understanding.

Question 49Introducing working safely

A worker sees a colleague repeatedly bypassing a machine guard to speed up production. What is the most appropriate first action?

  1. Join in so production is not delayed
  2. Intervene to stop the unsafe practice and report it to the supervisor Correct answer.
  3. Report it only if an injury occurs
  4. Ignore it because it is not their task

Explanation

Bypassing a guard is a serious unsafe act that exposes the operator to entanglement and other injuries. The worker should intervene to stop the practice where safe to do so and report it so the cause can be addressed. Waiting for an injury or joining in would be irresponsible.

Question 50Introducing working safely

What is the main purpose of a workplace emergency plan?

  1. To replace fire drills
  2. To record staff holidays
  3. To list the company's annual profits
  4. To describe how people should respond to and evacuate safely from an emergency Correct answer.

Explanation

An emergency plan sets out how people should respond to incidents such as fire, chemical release or medical emergencies, including evacuation routes and assembly points. It must be practised through drills and kept up to date. It is not a financial or holiday record.