***Useful Information for Apprentices***

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“ General Health and Safety at Work “

Question 1.1
What do the letters CDM stand for ?
A: Control of Demolition and Management Regulations
B: Control of Dangerous Materials Regulations
C: Construction (Demolition Management) Regulations
D: Construction (Design and Management Regulations ) Answer: D )
Question 1.2
Identify one method of enforcing regulations that are
available to the Health and Safety Executive:
A: Health Notice
B: Improvement Notice
C: Obstruction Notice
D: Increasing insurance premiums
Answer: B Improvement notices require action to achieve standards which meet health and safety law :
Question 1.3
What happens if a Prohibition Notice is issued by an
Inspector of the local authority or the HSE ?
A: The work in hand can be completed, but no new work started
B: The work can continue if adequate safety precautions are put in place
C: The work that is subject to the notice must cease
D: The work can continue, provided a risk assessment is carried out,
Answer: C The work covered by a prohibition notice must cease until the identified danger is removed.
Question 1.4
Health and Safety Executive Inspector can ?
A: Only visit if they have made an appointment
B: Visit at any time
C: Only visit if accompanied by the principal contractor
D: Only visit to interview the site manager
Answer: B Inspectors have a range of powers, including the right to visit premises at any time.
Question 1.5
A Prohibition Notice means:
A: When you finish the work you must not start again
B: The work must stop immediately
C: Work is to stop for that day only
D: Work may continue until the end of the day
Answer: B The work activity covered by the prohibition notice must cease, until the identified danger is removed ,
Question 1.6
In what circumstances can an HSE Improvement Notice be issued ?
A: If there is a breach of legal requirements
B: By warrant through the police
C: Only between Monday and Friday on site
Answer: A Improvement notices require action to achieve standards which meet health and safety law .
Question 1.7
What is an “Improvement Notice”?
A: A notice issued by the site principal contractor to tidy up the site
B: A notice from the client to the principal contractor to speed up the work
C: A notice issued by a Building Control Officer to deepen foundations
D: A notice issued by an HSE/local authority Inspector to enforce compliance with health
Answer: D Improvement notices require action to achieve standards which meet health and safety law .
Question 1.8
If a Health and Safety Executive Inspector issues a“ Prohibition Notice”, this means that:
A: the Site Manager can choose whether or not to ignore the notice
B: specific work activities, highlighted on the notice, must stop
C: the HSE must supervise the work covered by the notice
D: the HSE must supervise all work from then on
Answer: B Prohibition notices are intended to Stop activities which can cause serious injury.
Question 1.9
Which one of the following items of information will you find on the Approved Health and Safety Law poster?
A: Details of emergency escape routes
B: The location of the local HSE office
C: The location of all fire extinguishers
D: The identity of the first aiders
Answer: B The poster also lists the persons with health and safety responsibilities, but not first aiders.
Question 1.10
Who is responsible for signing a Company Safety Policy ?
A: Site Manager
B: Company Safety Officer
C: Company Secretary
D: Managing Director
Answer: D The Health and Safety at Work Act requires the most senior member of management to sign the health and safety policy
statement.

Question 1.11
Which one of the following must be in a company’s written Health and Safety Policy:
A: Aims and objectives of the company
B: Organisation and arrangements in force for carrying out the health and safety policy
C: Name of the Health and Safety Adviser
D: Company Director’s home address
Answer: B This requirement appears in the Health and Safety at Work Act.
Question 1.12
Employers have to produce a written Health and Safety Policy statement when:
A: A contract commences
B: They employ five people or more
C: The safety representative requests it
D: The HSE notifies them
Answer: B This is a specific requirement of the Health and Safety at Work Act.
Question 1.13
Companies employing five or more people must have a written Health and Safety Policy because:
A: The principal contractor gives them work on site
B: The HSAWA 1974 requires it
C: The Social Security Act requires it
D: The trade unions require it
Answer: B
Question 1.14
What do the letters HSC stand for ?
A: Health and Safety Contract
B: Health and Safety Consultant
C: Health and Safety Conditions
D: Health and Safety Commission Answer: D
Question 1.15
Which ONE of the following statements is correct ? The Health and Safety Executive is:
A: a prosecuting authority
B: an enforcing authority
C: a statutory provisions authority
Answer: B The Health and Safety Executive enforces health and safety legislation.
Question 1.16
The Health and Safety at Work Act requires employers to provide what for their employees?
A: Adequate rest periods
B: Payment for work done
C: A safe place of work
D: Suitable transport to work
Answer: C This is a specific requirement of Section 2 of the Health and Safety at Work Act.
Question 1.17
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and any regulations made under the Act are:
A: Not compulsory, but should be complied with if convenient
B: Advisory to companies and individuals
C: Practical advice for the employer to follow
D: Legally binding Answer: D
Question 1.18
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which of the following have a duty to work safely?
A: Employees only
B: The general public
C: Employers only
D: All people at work
Answer: D Employers, employees and the self-employed all have a duty to work safely under the Act.
Question 1.19
What is the MAXIMUM penalty that a Higher Court, can currently impose for a breach of the Health and Safety at Work Act?
A: £20,000 fine and two years imprisonment
B: £15,000 fine and three years imprisonment
C: £1,000 fine and six months imprisonment
D: Unlimited fine and two years imprisonment
Answer: D A Lower Court can impose a fine of up to £20,000 and/or up to six months imprisonment for certain offences. The potential fine in a Higher Court, however, is unlimited and the term of imprisonment can be up to 2 years.
Question 1.20
What do the letters ACoP stand for ?
A: Accepted Code of Provisions
B: Approved Condition of Practice
C: Approved Code of Practice
D: Accepted Code of Practice
Answer: C An ACOP is a code of practice approved by the Health and Safety Commission.

Question 1.21
Where should you look for Official advice on health and safety matters?
A: A set of health and safety guidelines provided by suppliers
B: The health and safety rules as laid down by the employer
C: Guidance issued by the Health and Safety Executive
D: A professionally approved guide book on regulations
Answer: C The HSE is the UK enforcing body and its guidance can be regarded as ‘official’
Question 1.22
Regulations that govern health and safety on construction sites:
A: apply only to inexperienced workers
B: do not apply during ’out of hours’ working
C: apply only to large companies
D: are mandatory ( that is, compulsory )
Answer: D The requirements of health and safety law are mandatory, and failure to follow them can lead to prosecutions.
Question 1.23
Which of the following statements is correct ?
A: The duty for health and safety falls only on the employer
B: All employees must take reasonable care, not only to protect themselves but also their colleagues
C: Employees have no responsibility for Health and Safety on site
D: Only the client is responsible for safety on site
Answer: B The responsibility for management of Health and Safety Act at Work rests with the employer
Question 1.25
Which of the following is correct for risk assessment?
A: It is a good idea but not essential
B: Only required to be done for hazardous work
C: Must always be done
D: Only required on major jobs
Answer: C There is a legal requirement for all work to be suitably risk assessed.
Question 1.26
In the context of a risk assessment, what do you understand by the term risk?
A: An unsafe act or condition
B: Something with the potential to cause injury
C: Any work activity that can be described as dangerous
D: The likelihood that harm from a particular hazard will occur
Answer: D Hazard and risk are not the same. Risk reflects the chance of being harmed by a hazard
Question 1.27
Who would you expect to carry out a risk assessment on your working site?
A: The site planning supervisor
B: A visiting HSE Inspector
C: The construction project designer
D: A competent person
Answer: D A risk assessment must be conducted by a 'competent person’.
Question 1.28
What is a HAZARD ?
A: Where an accident is likely to happen
B: An accident waiting to happen
C: Something with the potential to cause harm
D: The likelihood of something going wrong
Answer: C Examples of hazards include: a drum of acid, breeze blocks on an elevated plank; cables running across a floor.
Question 1.29
What must be done before any work begins ?
A: Emergency plan
B: Assessment of risk
C: Soil assessment
D: Geological survey
Answer: B This is a legal requirement of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations.
Question 1.30
Complete the following sentence: A risk assessment
A: is a piece of paper required by law
B: prevents accidents
C: is a means of analysing what might go wrong
D: isn’t particularly useful
Answer: C Risk assessment involves a careful review of what can cause harm and the practical measures to be taken to reduce the risk of harm.

 

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Re: Useful Information for Apprentices

Question 1.31
Why would your supervisor ask you to read the method statement and risk assessment before you start your next job?
A: He thinks you have got nothing better to do
B: They contain information on how to carry out the job in a safe manner
C: He wouldn’t, he thinks they are a waste of time
D: As someone has taken the time and trouble to write them, you might as well read them
Answer: B The supervisor must, by law, keep workers advised of significant risks, and control measures.
Question 1.32
What do the blue and white health and safety signs tell you?
A: Things you must do
B: The nearest fire exit
C: The hazards in the area
D: Things you must not do
Answer: A Blue and white signs show a ‘mandatory’ requirement.
Question 1.33
What colours are fire exit signs ?
A: Green and white
B: Red and yellow
C: Red and white
D: Blue and white
Answer: A The colours are prescribed in the Health and Safety ( Safety Signs and Signals ) Regulations.
Question 1.34
What is the main colour on a safety sign stating that
you must NOT do something?
A: Blue
B: Green
C: Red
D: Yellow
Answer: C Prohibitory signs are round and feature a black pictogram on a white background with red edging and
diagonal line.
Question 1.35
The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations require the colour coding of signs. What
colours are used on a sign indicating a warning, for example "Fork-lift trucks operating”?
A: Blue and white
B: Green and white
C: Yellow and black
D: Red and white
Answer: C Warning signs are triangular and feature a black pictogram on a yellow background with black edging.
Question 1.36
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”?
A: Green and white
B: Red, black and white
C: Blue and white
D: Yellow and black
Answer: B Prohibitory signs are round and feature a black pictogram on a white background with red edging and
diagonal line.
Question 1.37
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 mandatory activity, for example “Safety helmets must be worn
A: Green and white
B: Red, black and white
C: Blue and white
D: Yellow and black
Answer: C Mandatory signs are round and feature a white pictogram on a blue background.
Question 1.38
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 safe condition, for example “First Aid kit”?
A: Red, black and white
B: Blue and white
C: Yellow and black
D: Green and white
Answer: D Emergency escape and first-aid signs are rectangular or square and feature a white pictogram on a green
background.
Question 1.39
Why should regular inspections of the workplace take place ?
A: To check whether the working environment is safe
B: To check that all employees are present
C: To check that everyone is doing their job
D: To prepare for a visit from an HSE Inspector
Answer: A
Question 1.40
How can you help to prevent accidents ?
A: Don’t report them
B: Know how to get help quickly
C: Report any unsafe conditions
D: Know where the first-aid kit is kept
Answer: C Action to improve safety can only be taken if the risk is known about. Employees have a duty of care to other employees.

Electrotechnical
You should have an understanding of:
• The effects of electric current on the body
• The types of socket outlets used on construction sites
• The need for persons working on electrical systems to be competent to do so
• The use of residual current devices for supplementary protection against electric shock
• Safe isolation procedures when working on electrical systems and equipment
• Only working ‘live’ in exceptional circumstances
• Safe working with optical fibres

Question 10.1
In considering whether to work live a responsible person should
A: carry out a risk assessment
B: only work dead
C: only work live
D: do as the client demands
Answer: A To identify and assess the risks involved and the methods of controlling them.
Question 10.2
The normal procedure for working on electrical equipment should be which one of the following?
A: Dead working
B: Wearing insulated gloves
C: Using insulated tools
D: Live working
Answer: A Dead working should be considered as the norm and work on or near live conductors should rarely be permitted
Question 10.3
Test instruments used for working on electrical systems should:
A: be yellow in colour
B: be less than 10 years old
C: have non-insulated test probes
D: have insulated test probes
Answer: D To protect the user from electric shock whilst using the instrument ie handling the probes.
Question 10.4
Under the Electricity at Work Regulations, live working is considered:
A: as entirely acceptable
B: to be normally permitted
C: only to be allowed in exceptional circumstances
D: never to be allowed
Answer: C Extra controls must be employed, including training, supervision and use of suitable tools and protective equipment.
Question 10.5
Which of the following would you use to replace the fuse in a plug if fuses were NOT available ?
A: A nail
B: A piece of silver paper
C: A bit of wire
D: None of the options mentioned
Answer: D A fuse is often the main safety device in an electrical circuit. A blown fuse must only be replaced by a fuse of the correct type and rating.
Question 10.6
To prove a circuit or equipment is dead after isolation what is the FIRST activity in the sequence of events ?
A: Make sure equipment is not working
B: Check between phase and earth
C: Check proving instrument is working on known live source
D: Check between phase and neutral
Answer: C To prove that the voltage detector (such as a two-pole voltage detector, proprietary test lamp or voltmeter with insulated probes and fused leads) is working, i.e. indicating voltage.
Question 10.7
The nominal single phase voltage in the UK is ?
A: 230 volts
B: 240 volts
C: 415 volts
D: 400 volts
Answer: A This is nominal voltage for public electricity supply systems within Europe.

Question 10.8
When is live working permissible?
A: When the person carrying out the work is a competent person
B: When it is unreasonable in all circumstances for the equipment to be made dead and
suitable precautions are taken
C: When the means of isolation cannot be identified
D: When the person working on the equipment is wearing rubber gloves
Answer: B This is a requirement under r.14 of the EAW Regulations. However, it does not mean that live working is then ’safe’
Question 10.9
The FIRST step in the first aid procedure in the event of a person receiving an electric shock is:
A: take steps to remove the person from the live source
B: check airway, breathing and circulation
C: send for help
D: give the person mouth to mouth resuscitation
Answer: A Turn off the power if possible. Do not touch the person. Attempt to separate them from the source with a non-conducting object, such as a stick or broom.
Question 10.10
The specific effects on the human body of a major electric shock are one of the following:
A: dermatitis
B: burns and cardiac arrest
C: broken bones
D: chest pains
Answer: B
Question 10.11
The lowest level of electrical current which can harm the human body is normally measured in:
A: microamps
B: kiloamps
C: amps
D: milliamps
Answer: D Research has shown that a person is in serious danger of a fatal electric shock at, or above, approximately 30 milliamps.
Question 10.12
With regard to the effect of electrical current on the human body, one of the following is correct:
A: a 5 amp circuit breaker should prevent a person receiving a fatal electric shock
B: a 3 amp fuse should prevent a person receiving a fatal electric shock
C: a 30mA Residual Current Device (RCD) should prevent a person receiving a fatal electric shock.
D: a 5 amp rewireable fuse should prevent a person receiving a fatal electric shock
Answer: C 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.
Question 10.13
Where mains voltage is used to supply portable equipment, what additional protection is recommended?
A: Step-down transformer
B: Step-down generator
C: Cable avoidance tool
D: Residual current device
Answer: D A residual current device (RCD) does not guarantee safety and it is possible to suffer an electric shock or injury although it is operating correctly. Reduced low voltage systems (e.g. 110 volt centre point earthed) give more reliable protection against fatal electric shock.
Question 10.14
What colour cable USUALLY signifies 110 volt power supply on site ?
A: Black
B: Red
C: Blue
D: Yellow
Answer: D Yellow is the usual colour of cables, socket outlets, plugs, transformers etc which are used with a 110 volt supply.
Question 10.15
A portable electric generator on site has two power outlets, 110 volts and 230 volts. What colour would the 110 volt outlet be ?
A: Black
B: Yellow
C: Red
D: Blue
Answer: B Yellow is the usual colour of cables, socket outlets, plugs, transformers etc which are used with a 110 volt supply.
Question 10.16
What colour power outlet on a portable generator would supply 110 volts?
A: Black
B: Blue
C: Red
D: Yellow
Answer: D Yellow is the usual colour of cables, socket outlets, plugs, transformers etc which are used with a 110 volt supply.

 

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Re: Useful Information for Apprentices

Question 10.17
What action should you take if a workmate gets an electric shock ?
A: Phone the electricity board immediately
B: Dial 999 and ask for the fire brigade
C: Cut off the power and call for help
D: Try to pull them to safety
Answer: C If you can switch the power off, the electric hazard will be removed. First aid assistance will then probably be required. Do not touch someone who is still in contact with live electrical cables as you could also receive an electric shock.
Question 10.18
A residual current device is designed to operate in the event of one of the following:
A: overload
B: earth fault
C: lightning strike on the supply
D: short-circuit
Answer: B An RCD provides supplementary protection against direct contact of persons or livestock with live parts and reduces the risk of electric shock.
Question 10.19
Electrical installations on construction sites should be periodically inspected and tested:
A: every 3 months
B: every year
C: every 6 months
D: every month
Answer: A 3 monthly inspections of construction site installations are recommended in IEE Guidance Note 3.
Question 10.20
The maximum AC voltage which the human body can withstand without long term physiological effects in dry conditions is:
A: 110 volts
B: 230 volts
C: 50 volts
D: 400 volts
Answer: C Regarded as a non-fatal voltage level.
Question 10.21
Which of the following statements is true with regard to the dangers of electricity ?
A: Electricity is perfectly safe so long as you wear cotton gloves
B: Electricity is only dangerous if you are not wearing wellington boots
C: Electricity is only dangerous in wet weather
D: Electricity is dangerous at any time because you cannot tell by looking at a cable whether or not it is live
Answer: D 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. ←←←
Question 10.22
What is the most serious effect that electric shock can have if you come into contact with a live part ?
A: The electric current can cause a slight tingling in the fingers
B: The electric current can cause burn marks on the fingers
C: The electric current can cause the heart to stop, resulting in death
D: The electric current can cause the finger muscles to twitch
Answer: C Contact with live electrical parts can be fatal. If you do not know otherwise, always assume that electrical parts are live.
Question 10.23
Your job involves you working near to hanging electrical cables which have bare ends. What should you do ?
A: Touch the cables to see if they are live
B: Carry on working, as there shouldn’t be a problem
C: Inform your supervisor and keep well away
D: Attempt to push the cables back into the ceiling void so that you can start work
Answer: C You must always assume that exposed cables are live until you know they are not. Contact with live electrical cables can kill.
Question 10.24
For all live working activities it is necessary to:
A: carry out a risk assessment
B: wear rubber gloves only
C: be accompanied
D: keep your fingers crossed
Answer: A
Question 10.25
An electrical Permit to Work is primarily a statement that:
A: someone else has taken responsibility for the work
B: the circuit or equipment is live
C: certain instructions need to be followed
D: the circuit or equipment has been isolated and is safe to work on
Answer: D Permits to work describe the procedures that prevent a major hazard, such as electricity or moving machinery, from causing harm, usually by isolation to effectively
ensure (in the case of electricity) ’dead’ working with no chance of it going ‘live’.
Question 10.26
Test instrument probes used for live testing on electrical systems should:
A: be manufactured in the UK
B: be accompanied by a calibration certificate
C: be fused
D: be coloured red
Answer: C To protect the instrument from damage by overcurrent while in use, test probes should have suitable high breaking capacity (hbc) fuses with a low current rating (usually not exceeding 500 mA), or a current-limiting resistor and fuse.

Question 10.27
Which of the following does the Electricity at Work (EAW) regulations apply to ?
A: All persons engaged for work purposes
B: Self employed persons only
C: Employees only
D: Employers only
Answer: A The EAW Regulations impose duties on employers employees and the self employed.
Question 10.28
The Electricity at Work Regulations require that:
A: persons working with electricity must have the appropriate level of knowledge and experience
B: a training course is necessary before anyone can work with electricity
C: only electricians can work with electricity
D: anyone supervised can work with electricity
Answer: A Competency is a requirement of r.16 of the EAW Regulations.
Question 10.29
The Electricity at Work Regulations apply to:
A: only low voltage systems
B: only extra-low voltage systems
C: all voltage systems
D: only high voltage systems
Answer: C The EAW Regulations cover the safe use of electricity in work activities, irrespective of voltage.
Question 10.30
Which of the following should not be used to prove a circuit or equipment is dead after isolation?
A: A two-pole voltage detector
B: A proprietary test lamp
C: A suitable voltmeter
D: A multimeter
Answer: D The use of multimeters, which can be incorrectly set, has often caused accidents and should not be used on electrical power systems.
Question 10.31
Which of the following is not a suitable means of isolating a circuit ?
A: Removing a fuse and locking the distribution board
B: Putting insulating tape over the circuit breaker
C: Padlocking the isolating switch
D: Fitting a padlocked circuit breaker lockout
Answer: B The isolating device should be switched off or the fuse removed. The switch, circuit breaker or enclosure should then be locked and the key removed. A notice or label should also be posted to warn that someone is working
on the circuit or apparatus.
Question 10.32
Which of the following work procedures on electrical systems will always require a permit-to-work to be issued ?
A: Dead working on low-voltage systems
B: Live working on low-voltage systems
C: Dead working on high-voltage systems
D: Live working on high-voltage systems
Answer: C An electrical permit-to-work should state what circuit or equipment has been made safe, how that has been achieved and what work is to be done. A permit should not, therefore, be used for live working. Such a permit is
always required for work on high-voltage systems, but can also be used for low-voltage systems.
Question 10.33
Optical fibre cable remnants should not be left lying around on site because:
A: They can be hot and burn upon contact
B: Laser beams still exist in the cut pieces
C: They can pierce the skin or eyes
D: They are toxic
Answer: C Fibre fragments can enter the bloodstream and cause infections in the skin or eyes. All fibre waste, particularly small pieces, should be placed in suitable receptacles.
Question 10.34
Why should the end of an optical fibre cable never be pointed towards your own or anyone else’s eyes ?
A: The beam can transfer a strong electric current
B: The colour of the beam is very hypnotic
C: The beam can bore a hole through the skin
D: The beam can damage the eyes
Answer: D 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.

 

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Re: Useful Information for Apprentices

REPORTING ACCIDENTS
Question 3.1
What should you ensure if you suffer an injury through a manual handling operation?
A: You get paid for the job
B: The injury is recorded
C: You get help and carry on working
D: You take time off work
Answer: B All injuries must be recorded in the Company accident book
Question 3.2
Why should a serious accident be reported?
A: It helps the site find out what caused it
B: It is a legal requirement
C: So that the site manager can see who is to blame
D: So that the company will be held responsible
Answer: B Serious accidents (major injuries or those resulting in an absence of over 3 days) must be reported to the enforcing authority under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (RIDDOR)
Question 3.3
What immediate action should you take if you suffer an injury through carrying a load?
A: Advise your doctor of your injury
B: Tell your supervisor or employer
C: Tell your working companion
D: Carry on working as best you can
Answer: B All injuries must be recorded in the Company accident book
Question 3.4
Under RIDDOR, which one of the following must be reported?
A: Accidents where the injured person wishes to make a claim
B: Fracture other than to fingers, thumbs or toes
C: All ‘near misses’ even if no one was hurt
D: All accidents causing any injury
Answer: B This is classified as a ‘reportable major injury’ and must be reported to the enforcing authority under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (RIDDOR)
Question 3.5
Which one of the following have the power to examine an accident record?
A: The HSE inspector
B: An insurance company
C: A doctor
D: A workmate
Answer: A HSE inspectors have a range of powers, including this one.
Question 3.6
Which of the following should be recorded following an accident?
A: The date and time the accident occurred
B: Your date of birth
C: The weather conditions
D: Your National Insurance Number
Answer: A The information to be entered in an accident book (BI 510) includes when and where the accident happened, the name, address and occupation of the person who had the accident and details of how the accident happened and the injuries suffered. The weather conditions would only be included if they contributed to the accident
Question 3.7
Which one of the following accounts for most accidents each year on construction sites?
A: Struck by moving vehicles
B: Electrocution
C: Trench collapses
D: Slips, trips and falls
Answer: D HSE statistics show clearly that there are more slips, trips and falls than any other type of accident on site.
Question 3.8
Which one of the following is NOT classified as a major injury under RIDDOR?
A: A fractured finger
B: Fractured arm
C: Temporary loss of eyesight
D: Broken wrist
Answer: A RIDDOR excludes fractures to fingers, thumbs or toes from the definition of ‘reportable major injuries’
Question 3.9
Which one of the following should you do if you witness a serious accident on site?
A: Pretend you saw nothing
B: Say nothing in case you get in trouble
C: Discuss what to do with your workmates
D: Tell your supervisor what you saw happening
Answer: D If the supervisor is aware of an accident he can take steps to prevent a recurrence. The employer also has
legal duties to report certain incidents to the enforcing authority.
Question 3.10
A workmate tells you that he witnessed an accident the previous day and the victim was taken to hospital. He
asks you for advice on what he should do. Do you tell him to:
A: speak to the site nurse about what he saw
B: tell his supervisor that he saw what happened
C: telephone the hospital to find out how the injured person is
D: say nothing to anyone in case he gets someone in trouble
Answer: B If the supervisor is aware of an accident he can take steps to prevent a recurrence. The employer also has
legal duties to report certain incidents to the enforcing authority.

Question 3.11
If a person at work suffers an injury (other than a major injury) due to an accident at work, it is reportable under
RIDDOR if they are incapacitated for work for:
A: Over 1 day
B: Over 3 days
C: Over half a day
D: Over 2 days
Answer: B An over-three-day injury is one which is not major but results in the injured person being away from work or
unable to do the full range of their normal duties for more than three days (including any days they wouldn’t
normally be expected to work such as weekends, rest days or holidays) not counting the day of the injury itself.
Question 3.12
What must an employer do with their accident records following completion of a construction project?
A: They are sent to the Health and Safety Executive
B: They are destroyed on site with other non-essential documents
C: They are kept safe by the employer
D: They are sent to the employer’s insurance company
Answer: C Accident records must be kept by an employer for at least three years.
Question 3.13
At work who would you report a dangerous occurrence to?
A: The emergency services
B: Your supervisor or employer
C: Another employee
D: The client for the project
Answer: B Under RIDDOR, an employer has a legal duty to report certain work-related accidents, but to do this they will need to know that an accident has occurred.
Question 3.14
Following a reportable dangerous occurrence when must the enforcing authority be informed?
A: Within 5 days
B: Within 48 hours
C: Without delay
D: Within 24 hours
Answer: C The enforcing authority must be notified forthwith by the quickest practicable means and a report must also be sent to them within 10 days.
Question 3.15
Accidents causing any injury should always be recorded in:
A: The site engineer’s day book
B: Your employer’s accident recording system
C: Your personal diary
D: The main contractor’s diary
Answer: B All accidents should be recorded in the accident book
Question 3.16
Which one of the following is classed as an occupational disease under RIDDOR?
A: Mental disorder
B: Asbestosis
C: Amputation
D: Influenza
Answer: B Asbestosis is a reportable disease under RIDDOR.
Question 3.17
When a person is injured at work, who should enter the details in the accident book?
A: The injured person’s supervisor
B: The injured person or anyone acting for them
C: The site manager or engineer
D: The site safety manager
Answer: B This is the procedure for recording accidents internally in the accident book
Question 3.18
If you are involved in a minor accident at work, whose duty is it to report it to site management?
A: Any witness to the accident
B: The police, fire or ambulance who attend
C: It is your own responsibility
D: The site foreman should report it
Answer: C Employers rely on employees to advise them of occurrences at work.
Question 3.19
You have suffered an accident which has made you incapable of your normal work for over 3 days
Which of the following actions MUST be taken by your. employer?
A: The emergency services are asked to attend the site
B: The local hospital is informed
C: The relevant enforcing authority is informed
D: A deduction is made from your wages for days lost
Answer: C An over-three-day injury is one which is not major but results in the injured person being away from work or
unable to do the full range of their normal duties for more than three days (including any days they wouldn’t normally be expected to work such as weekends, rest days or holidays) not counting the day of the injury itself.
Question 3.20
The collapse of scaffolding is only notifiable as a dangerous occurrence when the scaffolding is which one of the following?
A: Over 15 metres in height
B: Any height
C: Over 10 metres in height
D: Over 5 metres in height
Answer: D This is one of the requirements of RIDDOR.

 

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Re: Useful Information for Apprentices

Question 3.21
If there is a fatal accident on site, when must the Health and Safety Executive be informed?
A: Without delay
B: Within 10 days
C: Within 7 days
D: Within 5 days
Answer: A The enforcing authority must be notified without delay by the quickest practicable means and a report must also be sent to them within 10 days.
Question 3.22
When must an accident be recorded in the site’s accident book?
A: When an accident causes damage to plant or equipment
B: Only when a person is injured and will be off work for more than three days
C: When the injury is serious enough for first aid to be needed.
D: When an accident causes injury to an employee while at work
Answer: D An accident causing an injury to an employee at work should be recorded in the accident book
Question 3.23
Which of the following have to be entered into the accident book?
A: All accidents causing any damage
B: All accidents causing an injury
C: Only accidents causing serious injury
D: Only accidents causing time off work
Answer: B An accident causing an injury to an employee at work should be recorded in the accident book
Question 3.24
When must injury accidents be recorded?
A: Only if you break a bone
B: Only if you have time off work
C: Any time they occur
D: Only if you need to go to hospital
Answer: C An accident causing an injury to an employee at work should be recorded in the accident book
Question 3.25
An entry must be made in the accident book when:
A: the person has been off sick for three days
B: management thinks it is appropriate
C: an accident causes personal injury to an employee
D: the severity of the accident may result in a compensation claim
Answer: C An accident causing an injury to an employee at work should be recorded in the accident book
Question 3.26
Which of the following MUST be recorded in an accident book?
A: Your National Insurance number
B: Your date of birth
C: Your occupation
D: Your phone number
Answer: C The information to be entered in an accident book includes when and where the accident happened
the name, address and occupation of the person who had the accident and details of how the accident happened
and the injuries suffered.
Question 3.27
Which of the following can you learn from an accident?
A: A combination of human error and mechanical failure always causes injury
B: Ideas on how you would prevent it happening again
C: That mechanical failures are most dangerous
D: How human error is always a cause
Answer: B An accident investigation should not only assess the cause, but also howsimilar accidents can be prevented in the future.
Question 3.28
Could making an entry in the accident book help you if you later make a claim for compensation?
A: Only if it is a serious injury
B: No
C: Only in the event of a fatality
D: Yes
Answer: D This is laid down in Social Security Legislation.
Question 3.29
Why is it important to report ’near miss’ accidents to your employer?
A: It’s the law
B: To make the figures look good
C: So lessons can be learned, preventing an accident next time
D: So that someone can be disciplined
Answer: C The HSE advises that ‘near misses’ should be investigated to prevent their recurrence.
Question 3.30
Who should you report serious accidents to?
A: Your workmate
B: Your employer or supervisor
C: The police
D: The ambulance service
Answer: B If the supervisor is aware of an accident he can take steps to prevent a recurrence. The employer also has
legal duties to report certain incidents to the enforcing authority.

Question 3.31
What is the aim of carrying out an accident investigation?
A: To determine the cause(s) and prevent a re-occurrence
B: To establish what injuries were sustained
C: To find out who is at fault
D: To establish the cost of any damage incurred
Answer: A An accident investigation should not only assess the cause, but also how similar accidents can be prevented in the future.
Question 3.32
You have witnessed a serious accident on your site, and are interviewed by an HSE inspector. Should you:
A: tell the inspector what your mates say you should tell him
B: ask your supervisor what you should say to the inspector
C: co-operate fully with the inspector and tell him exactly what you saw
D: don’t tell him anything
Answer: C This is good practice, but it can also be an offence to withhold important information from an inspector.

Personal Protective Equipment at Work
Question 4.1
When working in dusty conditions, what of the following would give the LEAST level of protection?
A: Compressed airline breathing helmet
B: Positive pressure powered respirator
C: Self contained breathing apparatus
D: Half mask dust respirator
Answer: D Protection factors are given in HSE publication HSG53‘Respiratory protective equipment at work – A practical guide’
Question 4.2
In hot weather which one of the following is correct with regard to safety helmets?
A: You can take off your helmet while working inside the building
B: You must continue to wear your helmet
C: You can drill holes in your safety hat for ventilation
D: You do not need to wear your helmet
Answer: B The Construction (Head Protection) Regulations 1989 require suitable head protection to be worn unless there is no foreseeable risk of head injuries other than by the wearer falling, or when directed to do so by their employer or the person who controls their activities on site.
Question 4.3
Which one of the following should you do if your personal protective equipment (PPE) is damaged?
A: Obtain new equipment when available
B: Report to your Supervisor without delay
C: Reduce the amount of time you use it
D: Carry on working
Answer: B Employees are required to report any defective PPE to their employer (PPE at Work Regulations 1992, Regulation 7)
Question 4.4
If personal protective equipment (PPE) is defective, what should you do?
A: Complain to the Health and Safety Inspector
B: Get your work mate to mend it if possible
C: Report it to your supervisor
D: Repair if possible and continue to use it
Answer: C Employees are required to report any defective PPE to their employer (PPE at Work Regulations 1992, Regulation 7)
Question 4.5
In normal use, what item of PPE is NOT essential for the operator of a cartridge-operated tool ?
A: Safety eyewear
B: Hearing protection
C: Wellington boots
D: Safety helmet
Answer: C Wellingtons do not offer protection against the risks associated with the use of a cartridge-operated tool.
Question 4.6
Can you opt out of wearing personal protective equipment (PPE)?
A: Yes, by informing the site supervisor
B: Yes, by writing officially to your employer
C: No, you cannot opt out
D: Yes, if it is uncomfortable
Answer: C You cannot legally “opt out” of being protected from significant risks at work. This includes wearing the necessary PPE.
Question 4.7
What is the most important item of personal protective equipment (PPE) when working on or near a highway?
A: Safety footwear
B: Waterproof clothing
C: Hard hat
D: High visibility vest
Answer: D The other PPE may also be required.
Question 4.8
If you are drilling into concrete with a masonry drill, in which one of the following circumstances will you need to wear eye protection?
A: Always
B: Only when drilling overhead
C: Only if the drill is bigger than 10mm
D: Not if drilling into the floor
Answer: A Suitable eye protection must always be worn when working with power-driven tools where chippings are likely to fly or abrasive materials could be propelled.
Question 4.9
When must you wear all personal protective equipment (PPE) provided by your employer?
A: As instructed by your employer
B: Only if it fits
C: When you want to
D: Only when you need to
Answer: A Under the PPE at Work Regulations 1992, employees must wear PPE as instructed.
Question 4.10
When MUST an employer provide personal protective equipment (PPE)?
A: To protect against a risk of harm that cannot be controlled another way
B: Twice a year
C: If the client or main contractor specifies it in the contract
D: Every 5 years
Answer: A When using a cartridge-operated tool, such as a nail gun, shatter proof goggles should be worn.

 

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Re: Useful Information for Apprentices

Question 4.12
Which of the following must your safety helmet comply with to meet with the requirements of the Construction (Head Protection) Regulations?
A: Be suitable for you
B: Be a good visible colour
C: Be stamped with the maker’s name
D: Be less than 1 year old
Answer: A An assessment of the suitability of head protection would include consideration of whether it can be adjusted to suit the individual who is to wear it, that it is compatible with the work to be done and that is comfortable to wear.
Question 4.13
In which of the following ways should you wear your safety helmet?
A: With the peak raised to deflect falling material
B: With the helmet back to front
C: With the peak raised to give good vision
D: Square on your head, properly adjusted
Answer: D Employees are required to wear head protection properly under the Construction (Head Protection) Regulations 1989.
Question 4.14
When an employee has been issued with eye protection, what are their duties under the Personal
Protective Equipment at Work Regulations?
A: To ensure that they are the right type of protector
B: Not to loan the equipment to other operatives
C: To use the protection in accordance with training and instruction
D: To pay for replacement of lost eye protection
Answer: C Regulation 10(2) requires that every employee shall use any PPE in accordance with the training and instruction received.
Question 4.15
When should you wear safety footwear on site?
A: Only when working on scaffolds
B: When there is a risk of a foot injury
C: Only when working outdoors
D: Only if the site conditions are wet
Answer: B 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.
Question 4.16
With regard to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), which one of the following statements is true?
A: If you do not use the personal protective equipment (PPE) provided you will probably not come to any harm
B: Personal protective equipment (PPE) protects only the user from the dangers present
C: Personal protective equipment (PPE) need only be provided if it is not too expensive
D: Personal protective equipment (PPE) need only be used if it is available
Answer: B PPE is there to protect the individual. Wearing PPE does not protect other people nearby.
Question 4.17
Which of the following statements is TRUE when an employer issues personal protective equipment (PPE)?
A: The employer can charge you for the full cost of it
B: The employer cannot charge you for it
C: The employer can charge you for up to half the cost of it
D: The employer can only charge you for it if you lose or damage it
Answer: B Employers cannot charge for PPE such as hard hats, gloves, required by law (and the bulk of PPE is required by law).
Question 4.18
Which one of the following must apply to any hard hat provided ?
A: It is CE - marked
B: It is less than 5 years old
C: It is less than 1 year old
D: It is less than 2 years old
Answer: A All PPE should be CE – marked, indicating that it meets the basic health and safety requirements
Question 4.19
When using personal protective equipment (PPE) legally you must do which of the following?
A: Not interfere with it or misuse it
B: Replace it at your own expense if it is damaged
C: Return it to the manufacturer when damaged
D: Clean it properly once a week
Answer: A Interfering with or misusing items provided in the interests of health, safety or welfare is an offence under the HSW Act 1974 (section 8)
Question 4.20
If it is necessary for an employee to use personal protective equipment, who has a duty to provide it?
A: The trade union
B: The employee
C: The employer
D: The principal contractor
Answer: C This is a requirement of the PPE at Work Regulations 1992 (Regulation 4 ).
Question 4.21
When should a safety helmet be worn on site?
A: At all times unless there is no foreseeable risk of injury to the head other than by falling.
B: When you are out in the open air
C: When walking to and from a place of work
D: Only when something may fall
Answer: A The circumstances when there is no foreseeable risk of head injury from falling or swinging objects or striking the head against something will be very limited in most construction work.

Question 4.22
A colleague has drilled holes in the top of his safety helmet because the weather is hot. Is this:
A: acceptable if the holes are small
B: his choice
C: acceptable
D: in breach of legal requirements
Answer: D Interfering with or misusing items provided in the interests of health, safety or welfare is an offence under the HSW Act 1974 (section 8).
Question 4.23
Who has a duty to provide PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) for use by an employee?
A: the employer
B: the principal contractor
C: the employee
D: the client
Answer: A This is a requirement of the PPE at Work Regulations 1992 (Regulation 4 ).
Question 4.24
When would it be appropriate to wear a bump-cap instead of a safety helmet?
A: When there is no foreseeable risk of injury from falling or swinging objects
B: In warm weather
C: When working in excavations
D: When working on a ladder
Answer: A Industrial scalp protectors (bump caps) can protect against striking fixed obstacles, scalping or entanglements. They do not provide suitable protection against falling or swinging objects.
Question 4.25
How can you protect your eyesight while working on site?
A: By squinting
B: By not looking directly at what you are doing
C: By wearing the correct type of eye protection
D: By wearing sunglasses
Answer: C
Question 4.26
When should head protection be worn on a construction site?
A: At all times except by those who are self employed
B: Only when you feel like it
C: At all times unless you are working on scaffold
D: At all times unless there is no foreseeable risk of injury to the head other than by falling
Answer: D This is a requirement of the Construction (Head Protection) Regulations
Question 4.27
Why should a high visibility vest be worn when working on roads?
A: So road users and plant operators can see you
B: Because you were told to do so
C: Because it will keep you warm
D: So that your mates can see you
Answer: A Many workers are struck and injured, often seriously, by moving vehicles.
Question 4.28
When considering what measures to take to protect people’s health and safety, PPE should always be regarded as:
A: the last resort
B: the first line of defence
C: the best way to tackle the job
D: the only practical measure
Answer: A Engineering controls and safe systems of work should always be considered first.

 

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Re: Useful Information for Apprentices

Health and Hygiene
Question 5.1
Exposure to asbestos fibres may cause which one of the following ?
A: Dermatitis
B: Asthma
C: Glandular fever
D: Asbestosis
Answer: D Breathing in asbestos fibres can also lead to a number of other diseases, including lung cancer and mesothelioma :
Question 5.2
Asbestos is suspected in the workplace, during renovation do you :
A: Remove it
B: Paint it
C: Ignore it
D: Seek guidance immediately
Answer: D Competent advice must be sought, to prevent exposure to the worker or others, either at the time, or subsequently :
Question 5.3
Which of the following statements about asbestos is TRUE ?
A: Asbestos is not really a hazard to health
B: White asbestos is safe to use
C: All asbestos can be a hazard to health
D: Only brown and blue asbestos are a hazard to health
Answer: C While blue and brown asbestos are most hazardous, white asbestos can also cause fatal diseases.
Question 5.4
While working you discover material you think could be asbestos. What should you do?
A: Clear any dust and fragments, put them in a bin then carry on working
B: Inform the site nurse
C: Stop working immediately and report your suspicions to your supervisor
D: Dampen the material to prevent further dust being created, then carry on working
Answer: C It is essential to stop work if asbestos is found or suspected, and await competent advice on what to do next.
Question 5.5
Can you tell by the smell of a product whether it is likely to cause harm ?
A: No
B: Only within an enclosed space
C: Yes
D: Only if you have been trained
Answer: A Many harmful substances have no smell
Question 5.6
How would you recognise a hazardous substance?
A: By a symbol on the container
B: By its smell
C: The colour of the label on the container
D: It will be in a suitable container
Answer: A The Chemicals (Hazard Information and Packaging for Supply) Regulations (CHIP) requires suppliers to provide information on the hazards of the chemicals they supply
Question 5.7
Which of the following does NOT cause skin problems?
A: Bitumens
B: Solvents
C: Asbestos
D: Epoxy resins
Answer: C Asbestos is potentially very harmful if inhaled, but does not affect the skin significantly.
Question 5.8
When an assessment has been carried out under COSHH Regulations, the risks and control measures
should be explained to:
A: the operatives using the substance
B: all employees on site
C: the accounts department
D: the person in charge of the stores
Answer: A All those working with the hazardous substances in question need to know about any risks.
Question 5.9
If your hands are very dirty, what should you use to get them clean ?
A: White Spirit
B: Paraffin
C: Soap and water
D: Thinners
Answer: C The other substances can remove natural oils from the skin.
Question 5.10
The presence of rats on site creates a risk of catching Weil’s disease. What is the EASIEST PRACTICAL
MEASURE that you can take to discourage the presence of rats ?
A: Avoid leaving scraps of food lying about
B: Lay traps containing rat poison
C: Contact the local Environmental Health Officer
D: Bring a large cat on site
Answer: A The easiest solution is to avoid leaving food around, since this is what attracts vermin.
Question 5.11
Why is personal hygiene so important?
A: So you don’t smell
B: Because the COSHH regulations require it
C: To protect your own and others’ health
D: To stop you catching something nasty
Answer: C

Question 5.12
If you have been handling lead, how is it most likely toget into your blood stream?
A: By not wearing safety goggles
B: By not reporting the matter to the HSE
C: By not using the correct safety footwear
D: By not washing your hands before eating
Answer: D The route into the body is ingestion, normally from lead contamination on the hands.
Question 5.13
The number of toilets provided on site depends on:
A: The type of work being completed
B: The ratio of male and female workers on site
C: The duration of the work on site
D: The number of personnel on site
Answer: D Guidance on the provision of welfare facilities is given in HSE publication ‘Health and Safety in Construction‘.
Question 5.14
Which of the following is not required to be provided under the Construction regulations?
A: Toilet Facilities
B: Washing Facilities
C: Hot Food
D: Drinking Water
Answer: C Guidance on the provision of welfare facilities is given in HSE publication ‘Health and Safety in Construction‘.
Question 5.15
The extended use of powered hand-held tools and equipment may lead to which medical condition?
A: Vibration white finger
B: Weil’s disease
C: Asbestosis
D: Dermatitis
Answer: A 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 .
Question 5.16
What must your employer do if the daily personal noise exposure is at or exceeds 85 dB(A)?
A: Provide hearing protection to those employees who ask for it
B: Issue hearing protection to those exposed and ensure that it is worn
C: Tell employees to buy their own hearing protection
D: Report it to the Health and Safety Executive
Answer: B This is an interim measure under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 when the daily personal noise exposure is at or exceeds the upper exposure action value of 85 dB(A). Exposure should subsequently be reduced by implementing organizational or technical measures.
Question 5.17
What are the lower and upper action values with regard to daily personal noise exposure, as defined in the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005?
A: 85 dB(A) and 90 dB(A)
B: 80 dB(A) and 85 dB(A)
C: 70 dB(A) and 80 dB(A)
D: 75 dB(A) and 85 dB(A)
Answer: B Daily personal noise exposure is the average noise level experienced by an individual over an 8 hour period.
Question 5.18
At or above what level of daily personal noise exposure does an employer have to provide hearing protection if it is requested by an employee?
A: 90 dB(A)
B: 95 dB(A)
C: 80 dB(A)
D: 85 dB(A)
Answer: C This is one of the duties of employers under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 when the lower exposure action value of 80 dB(A) is reached or exceeded.
Question 5.19
The effects of damage to your hearing by long-term exposure to high noise levels:
A: can be corrected by an operation
B: are permanent
C: will be reduced when you change jobs
D: can be reversed to near normal, with time
Answer: B Hearing damage due to long-term noise exposure is irreversible.
Question 5.20
Hearing protection should be worn:
A: in designated areas
B: in noisy internal areas only
C: at any workplace
D: only on building sites
Answer: A Employees must wear hearing protectors when exposed at or above the upper exposure action values and within hearing protection zones.
Question 5.21
Wearing suitable hearing protection:
A: stops you hearing distracting conversations
B: stops you hearing all noise
C: brings noise down to an acceptable level
D: repairs damaged hearing
Answer: C 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.
Question 5.22
Which of the following is one of the recommended means of protecting your hearing?
A: Rolled tissue paper
B: Cotton wool pads
C: Soft cloth pads
D: Ear defenders
Answer: D The others are not considered to be suitable types of hearing protection.

Question 5.23
Which of the following would not reduce the risks from hand-arm vibration when using a hammer-action tool?
A: Selecting the lowest vibration tool that is suitable and which can do the work efficiently
B: Wearing gloves to keep the hands warm
C Working as a team to share the work out
D: Making sure one person does all the work with the tool
Answer: D Where tools require constant or frequent use, rotas will avoid individuals having long exposure to vibration.
Question 5.24
Which of the following animals can carry Weil’s disease?
A: Snake
B: Sheep
C: Rat
D: Pig
Answer: C Weil’s disease is a serious and sometimes fatal infection that can be transmitted to humans by contact with infected rats. Another form of Leptospirosis infection can be transmitted from cattle to humans.
Question 5.25
You are most likely to catch Weil’s disease (Leptospirosis) if you:
A: Work near wet ground, waterways or sewers
B: Work near air conditioning units
C: Fix showers or baths
D: Drink water from a standpipe
Answer: A Anyone who is exposed to rat urine is at risk, particularly sewer workers and farmers. Those in contact with canal or river water are also at risk.
Question 5.26
What should you do if the toilets on your site are continually dirty?
A: Ignore the problem – its normal on a construction site
B: Make sure you tell someone who can sort it out
C: Find some cleaning materials and clean it up yourself
D: Ask in a nearby café or pub if you can use their toilets
Answer: B How often welfare facilities on site require cleaning will depend on the number of people on site and how quickly they get dirty. The person in control of the site should make sure someone is responsible for keeping the facilities clean and tidy.
Question 5.27
Excessive sunlight on bare skin can cause which serious health problem?
A: Dermatitis
B: Rickets
C: Acne
D: Skin cancer
Answer: D Ultraviolet rays in sunlight can cause sunburn and premature ageing of the skin. The most serious effect, however, is an increased chance of developing skin cancer.

 

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“ First Aid After Electric Shock “
Currents of the order of 15 mA at mains frequency passing through the body cause muscular contractions that make it difficult for a person to let go. Currents around 100 mA cause irregular contractions of the heart which are likely to prove fatal :
Do not touch the casualty until the current is switched off. If the current cannot be switched off, stand on some dry insulating material and use a wooden or plastic implement to free the casualty from the electrical source. If breathing has stopped, start mouth-to-mouth respiration and continue until the casualty starts to breathe or until medical help arrives.
“ Mouth-to-Mouth Respiration “
• Lie the casualty flat if possible.
• Ensure no obstructions are present in the mouth ( remove dentures, etc.).
• Ease constriction at the neck, chest and waist.
• Place a rolled jacket or pad under the shoulders to arch the neck.
• Pinch the casualty’s nostrils and draw the chin forward to open the mouth.
• Take a moderately deep breath and breathe steadily into the casualty’s mouth (chest will rise).
• Lift your own head and allow the casualty to exhale (see chest deflate).
• Repeat this cycle at a rate of 6 to 8 per minute.
• Continue until the casualty resumes breathing unaided or until qualified medical services take over, however long this takes.
• If breathing resumes, place casualty in the Open Airway (Recovery) Position and treat as an unconscious casualty.
• Check the casualty for secondary injuries caused by falling or being thrown by the shock.
Emergency Resuscitation : wherever there is a foreseeable risk of an accident resulting in an unconscious casualty due to electric shock.
“ Open Airway (Recovery) Position “ Open Airway (Recovery) Position :
Electrical burns even from minor shocks which may leave only superficial signs of damage, are often deep-seated in the tissue below the skin. Electrical burns should always be examined by a doctor.

 

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HSE information sheet :

Carrying out a risk assessment
To help you identify the precautions that are necessary to carry out electrical testing work safely, you need to do an assessment of the risk of injury posed by the work being done. When assessing the risk, you need to think about the hazards that are present; who may be harmed and how; and the effectiveness of existing precautions. Bear in mind the examples of factors given in this
guidance which might increase the risk of injury.
When carrying out a risk assessment for electrical testing, ask yourself the following questions:
(a) Can the work be done with the equipment dead ?
(b) Is it absolutely necessary for someone to be working on or near equipment that is live at
dangerous voltages or current levels ?
(c) Have suitable precautions been taken to avoid danger and, where necessary, prevent injury ?
(d) Is the person doing the work competent for that type of work, or if not, adequately supervised ?

* The person carrying out the testing should have received adequate training and, if appropriate, be
competent to make an on-site risk assessment. This should take account of the ability of those employed by the customer to heed any warnings that might be given, be given,
in order to prevent unauthorised people from approaching the unit under test.

* Test equipment, leads and cables should be handled carefully to avoid injury. The following precautions are recommended:
(a) All leads and cables which can be energised at dangerous voltages should be robustly insulated
and properly terminated. All connections of conductors which can be energised at dangerous
voltage, should be electrically and mechanically robust to prevent conductors becoming
accidentally exposed. There should be no exposed conductors at dangerous voltages at any purpose built
connectors or jigs into which the product is fixed for testing;
(b) Test equipment connecting leads, probes and connectors should be sufficiently protected to
prevent accidental contact when being applied to and removed from live parts;
(c) Where practicable, place the equipment under test into interlocked enclosures. This allows
connections to be made while the equipment is isolated;
(d) Where practicable, apply test leads while the equipment is isolated and then energise it. To
make sure that the equipment is isolated, a suitable isolating device should be used which must be:
(i) appropriate and convenient for the intended use;
(ii) suitably located;
(iii) readily identifiable (eg by durable marking) as to which circuits or part of the test area is served;
(iv) provided with adequate means to prevent the supply isolator being switched on (either inadvertently, mistakenly, or by an unauthorised person).
What are the legal requirements?
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 are the principal legislation relating to electrical testing activities
and regulation 14 is particularly relevant to live testing activities. In addition, employers are required under
regulation 3 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 to assess the risks to the health and safety of their employees while they are at work, in order to identify and implement the necessary precautions to ensure safety.

(e) Where practicable, the power supplies to the unit under test and to the mains-powered
instrumentation should include a residual current device (RCD) used as supplementary protection.
For personal protection it is recommended that the rated tripping current of the RCD should be no
more than 30mA (milliamps).

Precautions :
Where possible, the work should be done with the equipment dead (this is a requirement of the Electricity
at Work Regulations 19892). Otherwise, adequate precautions, which should be identified in your risk
assessment, must be taken to ensure safety. NB:

 

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Health & Safety Policy Document :
What is a health and safety policy statement ?
Your health and safety policy statement sets out how you manage health and safety in your
organisation. It is a unique document that shows who does what; and when and how they do it.
This is an example of a policy statement that H o w e v e r, you do not have to use this document
or format. You are free to re c o rd and store the i n f o rmation in any form you choose. This form a t
gives you an idea of the kind of information you need to re c o rd .
Why do I need a health and safety policy statement ?
The health and safety policy statement is your starting point to managing health and safety in
the workplace. By law, (Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 section 2(3)) if you employ
five or more people you must have a written health and safety policy. This contains your
statement of general policy on health and safety at work and the organisation and arrangements for putting that policy into practice.
Writing a health and safety policy statement is m o re than just a legal re q u i rement – it is your
commitment to planning and managing health and safety. It is the key to achieving acceptable
s t a n d a rds, reducing accidents and cases of work related ill health and it shows your employees
that you care for their health and safety.
Who should do what ?
With very few exceptions, the responsibility for health and safety rests on you as an employer.
However, many day-to-day tasks may be delegated. Your statement should show clearly how these tasks are allocated, but remember,
you will still have ultimate responsibility. You should consult your employees (through safety representatives, if you have any) about
the policy statement. Everyone should be able to see from the policy statement exactly who is responsible for different things, such as advice,
reporting an accident, and first aid.
When and how should they do it ?
Your policy statement should describe your arrangements, i.e. the systems and procedures
you have in place for ensuring employees’ health and safety. You may wish to refer to other documents,
eg works’ rules, safety checklists, training programmes, emergency instructions, etc. All employees may not need to see all the
other documents, but they must see the policy statement itself.
How often do I need to revise the policy statement ?
It should be reviewed and possibly revised in the light of experience, or because of operational or
organisational changes. It is useful to review the policy regularly (e.g. annually).
Do I have to do anything else ?
Yes, you have other legal duties under other legislation. In particular, under the Management
of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, you have to assess the risks arising from your work activities and record the significant findings
You also have to record your arrangements for health and safety (you can use this document to do that). Depending on your type of work, there may be other specific legislation that will apply. REMEMBER: What you write in the policy
has to be put into practice. The true test of a health and safety policy is the actual conditions in the workplace, not how well
the statement is written.
How to use this guidance :
This guidance is split into three parts. It contains a statement of general policy based on your legal duties under the Health and Safety at Work etc
Act 1974. Then you can re c o rd your org a n i s a t i o n a l responsibilities and your arrangements to ensure
the health and safety of your employees.

Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 :

This is the Health and Safety Policy Statement of
Our statement of general policy is:
* to provide adequate control of the health and safety risks arising from our work activities;
* to consult with our employees on matters affecting their health and safety;
* to provide and maintain safe plant and equipment;
* to ensure safe handling and use of substances;
* to provide information, instruction and supervision for employees;
* to ensure all employees are competent to do their tasks, and to give them adequate training;
* to prevent accidents and cases of work-related ill health;
* to maintain safe and healthy working conditions; and
* to review and revise this policy as necessary at regular intervals.
Signed (Employer) : Date Review : date

Responsibilities :

1 Overall and final responsibility for health and safety is that of
Note 1 : Your name must be insert e d h e re. As the employer (i.e. sole t r a d e r, senior partner or managing director) you have overall responsibility for health and safety
2 Day-to-day responsibility for ensuring this policy is put into practice is delegated to
Note 2 : If you are not always there, or do not have time to manage on
a day-to-day basis, you can delegate this role to someone else, e.g. dire c t o r, manager or
supervisor. You will need to e n s u re that they keep you fully informed of health and safety
matters – it will still be your overall responsibility y.
3 To ensure health and safety standards are maintained/ i m p roved, the following people have responsibility in
the following are as
Note 3 : You may delegate functions to people within your org a n i s a t i o n ,
either by specific areas within the workplace or by topic. You should include their specific
responsibilities in their job responsibilities in their job description (if they have one). You must also ensure that they
a re competent to undertake their health and safety responsibilities and have adequate resources to enable
them to do their job properly. It is important that responsibilities are clearly set out – this will make sure that if
t h e re are any health and safety concerns, they can be reported to the right person, so they can be dealt with.
You may wish to insert a diagram or chart showing your management structure / arrangements .
Name Responsibility
4 All employees have to: l co-operate with supervisors and managers on

* co-operate with supervisors and managers on
health and safety matters;
*not interfere with anything provided to safeguard
their health and safety;
* take reasonable care of their own health and safety; and
* report all health and safety concerns to an appropriate person (as detailed in this policy statement).
Note 4 : Employees have legal responsibilities to take care of
the health and safety of themselves and others, and to co-operate with you to help you comply with the law.
E q u a l l y, if employees have any concerns over health and safety issues, they should be
clear about whom they should tell, so that the concerns can be addressed .

 

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The new Health and Safety (Offences) Act 2008
January 2009 saw one of the most significant changes to UK law for electrical duty holders coming into force, placing them firmly in the firing line in the event of health and safety breaches. The implications of the Health and Safety (Offences) Act 2008 are severe for those in the industry, below we examine how you can reduce risk for yourself at a time when many companies are searching for ways to trim budgets.
What is it?
New legislation came into force on 16th January 2009 that has increased the penalties and provided courts with greater sentencing powers for individuals and dutyholders (that is, employees & employers) who breach health and safety laws. More specifically in the case of electrical legislation, non compliance with 'The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989'. The Act amends Section 33 of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, and raises the maximum penalties available to the courts in respect of certain health and safety offences.
The maximum Magistrates' court fine for most safety breaches has risen from £5,000 to £20,000. It is now also possible to jail offenders for up to 12 months for more offences than ever before.
Why has it been introduced?
It is generally accepted that the level of punishment for some health and safety offences does not fit the crime. These changes will ensure that sentences can now be more easily set at a level to deter businesses that do not take their health and safety management responsibilities seriously and further encourage employers and employees to comply with the law. HSE enforcement policy is to:
"target those who cut corners, gain commercial advantage over competitors by failing to comply with health and safety law and who put workers and the public at risk.
Around 1,000 electrical accidents are reported to the HSE every year.
The Act aims to free-up the legal system by giving Magistrates the power to appropriately handle the more serious health and safety breaches. Previously it would have been costly to take these cases to the Crown Court and in many instances the plaintiff would settle with the minimal Magistrates fines.
The reduction in costs for plaintiffs in a Magistrates Court may mean that we witness a rise in the number of prosecutions so firms should be extra vigilant when it comes to their health and safety policies.
Will it affect me as an individual?
If, even as an employee, you are responsible for electrical safety and breach the law by not providing a safe working electrical environment, then in the eyes of the law you are most certainly culpable and therefore exposed to the penalties listed below.
How easy will it be to implement?
More cases will be resolved in the lower courts and justice will be faster, less costly and more efficient. Jail sentences for particularly blameworthy health and safety offences committed by individuals, can now be imposed reflecting the severity of such crimes, whereas there were more limited options in the past.
What are the penalties?
• The maximum fine which may be imposed in the lower courts is £20,000 for most health and safety offences. There are unlimited fines in the higher courts.
• Imprisonment is an option for individuals prosecuted for health and safety offences in both the lower and higher courts - up to 12 months in a Magistrates Court and 2 years in a Crown Court.
• Certain offences, which are currently triable only in the lower courts, will be triable in either the lower or higher courts.
What action can I take in order to defend myself?
Compliance with Health & Safety Laws, i.e. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, will go a long away to ensure you do not commit an offence under the new Act. More specifically:
• Documented evidence of a well maintained electrical system, i.e. inspect & Test Records, Electrical Drawings.
• Competent workforce. That is, appropriately experienced and trained personnel kept abreast of current electrical standards (17th Edition).
• Safe working procedures which are both current and clearly documented.
Remember
Good employers, good managers and responsible employees with documented evidence of electrical compliance have nothing to fear.

 

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The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989


The Secretary of State, in exercise of the powers conferred on him by sections 15(1), (2), (3)(a) and (b), (4)(a), (5)(b), (6)(b), (8) and (9) and 82(3)(a) of, and paragraphs 1(1)(a) and (c), (2) and (3), 6(2), 9, 11, 12, 14, 15(1), 16 and 21(b) of Schedule 3 to, the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974[1] ("the 1974 Act"), and of all other powers enabling him in that behalf and for the purpose of giving effect without modifications to proposals submitted to him by the Health and Safety Commission under section 11(2)(d) of the 1974 Act, after the carrying out by the said Commission of consultations in accordance with section 50(3) of that Act, hereby makes the following Regulations:

PART I : INTRODUCTION

Citation and commencement
1. These Regulations may be cited as the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and shall come into force on 1st April 1990.
Interpretation
2.—(1) In these Regulations, unless the context otherwise requires-
"approved" means approved in writing for the time being by the Health and Safety Executive for the purposes of these Regulations or conforming with a specification approved in writing by the Health and Safety Executive for the purposes of these Regulations;
"circuit conductor" means any conductor in a system which is intended to carry electric current in normal conditions, or to be energised in normal conditions, and includes a combined neutral and earth conductor, but does not include a conductor provided solely to perform a protective function by connection to earth or other reference point;
"conductor" means a conductor of electrical energy;
"danger" means risk of injury;
"electrical equipment" includes anything used, intended to be used or installed for use, to generate, provide, transmit, transform, rectify, convert, conduct, distribute, control, store, measure or use electrical energy;
"firedamp" means any flammable gas or any flammable mixture of gases occurring naturally in a mine;
"injury" means death or personal injury from electric shock, electric burn, electrical explosion or arcing, or from fire or explosion initiated by electrical energy, where any such death or injury is associated with the generation, provision, transmission, transformation, rectification, conversion, conduction, distribution, control, storage, measurement or use of electrical energy;
"safety-lamp mine" means-
(a) any coal mine; or
(b) any other mine in which-
(i) there has occurred below ground an ignition of firedamp; or
(ii) more than 0.25% by volume of firedamp is found on any occasion at any place below ground in the mine;
"system" means an electrical system in which all the electrical equipment is, or may be, electrically connected to a common source of electrical energy, and includes such source and such equipment.
(2) Unless the context otherwise requires, any reference in these Regulations to-
(a) a numbered regulation or Schedule is a reference to the regulation or Schedule in these Regulations so numbered;
(b) a numbered paragraph is a reference to the paragraph so numbered in the regulation or Schedule in which the reference appears.

Persons on whom duties are imposed by these Regulations
3.—(1) Except where otherwise expressly provided in these Regulations, it shall be the duty of every-
(a) employer and self-employed person to comply with the provisions of these Regulations in so far as they relate to matters which are within his control; and
(b) manager of a mine or quarry (within in either case the meaning of section 180 of the Mines and Quarries Act 1954[2]) to ensure that all requirements or prohibitions imposed by or under these Regulations are complied with in so far as they relate to the mine or quarry or part of a quarry of which he is the manager and to matters which are within his control.

(2) It shall be the duty of every employee while at work-
(a) to co-operate with his employer so far as is necessary to enable any duty placed on that employer by the provisions of these Regulations to be complied with; and
(b) to comply with the provisions of these Regulations in so far as they relate to matters which are within his control.

 

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PART II
GENERAL :

Systems, work activities and protective equipment
4.—(1) All systems shall at all times be of such construction as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, danger.

(2) As may be necessary to prevent danger, all systems shall be maintained so as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, such danger.

(3) Every work activity, including operation, use and maintenance of a system and work near a system, shall be carried out in such a manner as not to give rise, so far as is reasonably practicable, to danger.

(4) Any equipment provided under these Regulations for the purpose of protecting persons at work on or near electrical equipment shall be suitable for the use for which it is provided, be maintained in a condition suitable for that use, and be properly used.
Strength and capability of electrical equipment
5. No electrical equipment shall be put into use where its strength and capability may be exceeded in such a way as may give rise to danger.
Adverse or hazardous environments
6. Electrical equipment which may reasonably foreseeably be exposed to-
(a) mechanical damage;
(b) the effects of the weather, natural hazards, temperature or pressure;
(c) the effects of wet, dirty, dusty or corrosive conditions; or
(d) any flammable or explosive substance, including dusts, vapours or gases,
shall be of such construction or as necessary protected as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, danger arising from such exposure.
Insulation, protection and placing of conductors
7. All conductors in a system which may give rise to danger shall either-
(a) be suitably covered with insulating material and as necessary protected so as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, danger; or
(b) have such precautions taken in respect of them (including, where appropriate, their being suitably placed) as will prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, danger.
Earthing or other suitable precautions
8. Precautions shall be taken, either by earthing or by other suitable means, to prevent danger arising when any conductor (other than a circuit conductor) which may reasonably foreseeably become charged as a result of either the use of a system, or a fault in a system, becomes so charged; and, for the purposes of ensuring compliance with this regulation, a conductor shall be regarded as earthed when it is connected to the general mass of earth by conductors of sufficient strength and current-carrying capability to discharge electrical energy to earth.
Integrity of referenced conductors
9. If a circuit conductor is connected to earth or to any other reference point, nothing which might reasonably be expected to give rise to danger by breaking the electrical continuity or introducing high impedance shall be placed in that conductor unless suitable precautions are taken to prevent that danger.
Connections
10. Where necessary to prevent danger, every joint and connection in a system shall be mechanically and electrically suitable for use.
Means for protecting from excess of current
11. Efficient means, suitably located, shall be provided for protecting from excess of current every part of a system as may be necessary to prevent danger.
Means for cutting off the supply and for isolation
12.—(1) Subject to paragraph (3), where necessary to prevent danger, suitable means (including, where appropriate, methods of identifying circuits) shall be available for-
(a) cutting off the supply of electrical energy to any electrical equipment; and
(b) the isolation of any electrical equipment.

(2) In paragraph (1), "isolation" means the disconnection and separation of the electrical equipment from every source of electrical energy in such a way that this disconnection and separation is secure.

(3) Paragraph (1) shall not apply to electrical equipment which is itself a source of electrical energy but, in such a case as is necessary, precautions shall be taken to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, danger.
Precautions for work on equipment made dead
13. Adequate precautions shall be taken to prevent electrical equipment, which has been made dead in order to prevent danger while work is carried out on or near that equipment, from becoming electrically charged during that work if danger may thereby arise.
Work on or near live conductors
14. No person shall be engaged in any work activity on or so near any live conductor (other than one suitably covered with insulating material so as to prevent danger) that danger may arise unless-
(a) it is unreasonable in all the circumstances for it to be dead; and
(b) it is reasonable in all the circumstances for him to be at work on or near it while it is live; and
(c) suitable precautions (including where necessary the provision of suitable protective equipment) are taken to prevent injury.
Working space, access and lighting
15. For the purposes of enabling injury to be prevented, adequate working space, adequate means of access, and adequate lighting shall be provided at all electrical equipment on which or near which work is being done in circumstances which may give rise to danger.
Persons to be competent to prevent danger and injury
16. No person shall be engaged in any work activity where technical knowledge or experience is necessary to prevent danger or, where appropriate, injury, unless he possesses such knowledge or experience, or is under such degree of supervision as may be appropriate having regard to the nature of the work.

 

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Earthing or other suitable precautions :

PART II :
GENERAL ,

Systems, work activities and protective equipment
4.—(1) All systems shall at all times be of such construction as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, danger.

(2) As may be necessary to prevent danger, all systems shall be maintained so as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, such danger.

(3) Every work activity, including operation, use and maintenance of a system and work near a system, shall be carried out in such a manner as not to give rise, so far as is reasonably practicable, to danger.

(4) Any equipment provided under these Regulations for the purpose of protecting persons at work on or near electrical equipment shall be suitable for the use for which it is provided, be maintained in a condition suitable for that use, and be properly used.
Strength and capability of electrical equipment
5. No electrical equipment shall be put into use where its strength and capability may be exceeded in such a way as may give rise to danger.
Adverse or hazardous environments
6. Electrical equipment which may reasonably foreseeably be exposed to-
(a) mechanical damage;
(b) the effects of the weather, natural hazards, temperature or pressure;
(c) the effects of wet, dirty, dusty or corrosive conditions; or
(d) any flammable or explosive substance, including dusts, vapours or gases,
shall be of such construction or as necessary protected as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, danger arising from such exposure.
Insulation, protection and placing of conductors
7. All conductors in a system which may give rise to danger shall either-
(a) be suitably covered with insulating material and as necessary protected so as to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, danger; or
(b) have such precautions taken in respect of them (including, where appropriate, their being suitably placed) as will prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, danger.
Earthing or other suitable precautions
8. Precautions shall be taken, either by earthing or by other suitable means, to prevent danger arising when any conductor (other than a circuit conductor) which may reasonably foreseeably become charged as a result of either the use of a system, or a fault in a system, becomes so charged; and, for the purposes of ensuring compliance with this regulation, a conductor shall be regarded as earthed when it is connected to the general mass of earth by conductors of sufficient strength and current-carrying capability to discharge electrical energy to earth.
Integrity of referenced conductors
9. If a circuit conductor is connected to earth or to any other reference point, nothing which might reasonably be expected to give rise to danger by breaking the electrical continuity or introducing high impedance shall be placed in that conductor unless suitable precautions are taken to prevent that danger.
Connections
10. Where necessary to prevent danger, every joint and connection in a system shall be mechanically and electrically suitable for use.
Means for protecting from excess of current
11. Efficient means, suitably located, shall be provided for protecting from excess of current every part of a system as may be necessary to prevent danger.
Means for cutting off the supply and for isolation
12.—(1) Subject to paragraph (3), where necessary to prevent danger, suitable means (including, where appropriate, methods of identifying circuits) shall be available for-
(a) cutting off the supply of electrical energy to any electrical equipment; and
(b) the isolation of any electrical equipment.

(2) In paragraph (1), "isolation" means the disconnection and separation of the electrical equipment from every source of electrical energy in such a way that this disconnection and separation is secure.

(3) Paragraph (1) shall not apply to electrical equipment which is itself a source of electrical energy but, in such a case as is necessary, precautions shall be taken to prevent, so far as is reasonably practicable, danger.
Precautions for work on equipment made dead
13. Adequate precautions shall be taken to prevent electrical equipment, which has been made dead in order to prevent danger while work is carried out on or near that equipment, from becoming electrically charged during that work if danger may thereby arise.
Work on or near live conductors
14. No person shall be engaged in any work activity on or so near any live conductor (other than one suitably covered with insulating material so as to prevent danger) that danger may arise unless-
(a) it is unreasonable in all the circumstances for it to be dead; and
(b) it is reasonable in all the circumstances for him to be at work on or near it while it is live; and
(c) suitable precautions (including where necessary the provision of suitable protective equipment) are taken to prevent injury.
Working space, access and lighting
15. For the purposes of enabling injury to be prevented, adequate working space, adequate means of access, and adequate lighting shall be provided at all electrical equipment on which or near which work is being done in circumstances which may give rise to danger.
Persons to be competent to prevent danger and injury
16. No person shall be engaged in any work activity where technical knowledge or experience is necessary to prevent danger or, where appropriate, injury, unless he possesses such knowledge or experience, or is under such degree of supervision as may be appropriate having regard to the nature of the work.

 

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Legal Requirements :

The legislation of specific relevance to electrical maintenance is:
The Heath & Safety at Work Act : 1974 ,
The Management of Heath & Safety at Work Regulations : 1999 ,Every employer shall make suitable and sufficient The Electricity at Work Regulations : 1989 , The Workplace ( Heath & Safety and Welfare ) Regulations : 1992 , The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations : 1998 ,
The Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 puts the duty of care upon both the employer and the employee to ensure the safety of all persons using the work premises. This includes the self employed.

The Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999 states:
'Every employer shall make suitable and sufficient assessment of:

(a) the risks to the health and safety of his employees to which they are exposed whilst at work, and

(b) the risks to ensure the health and safety of persons not in his employment arising out of or in connection with the conduct by him or his undertaking.'

The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 states:

'Every employer shall ensure that work equipment is maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair.'

The PUWER 1998 covers most risks that can result from using work equipment. With respect to risks from electricity, compliance with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 is likely to achieve compliance with the PUWER 1998.The Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999 states:
PUWER 1998 only applies to work equipment used by workers at work. This includes all work equipment (fixed, transportable or portable) connected to a source of electrical energy. PUWER does not apply to fixed installations in a building. The electrical safety of these installations is dealt with only by the Electricity at Work Regulations.

The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 states:

'All systems shall at all times be of such construction as to prevent, so far as reasonably practicable, such danger.'

'As may be necessary to prevent danger, all systems shall be maintained so as to prevent, so far as reasonably practicable, such danger.'

'System' means an electrical system in which all the electrical equipment is, or may be, electrically connected to a common source of electrical energy and includes such source and such equipment'

'Electrical Equipment' includes anything used, intended to be used or installed for use, to generate, provide, transmit, transform, rectify, convert, conduct, distribute, control, store, measure or use electrical energy.'

Scope of the legislation

It is clear that the combination of the HSW Act 1974, the PUWER 1998 and the EAW Regulations 1989 apply to all electrical equipment used in, or associated with, places of work. The scope extends from distribution systems down to the smallest piece of electrical equipment.

It is clear that there is a requirement to inspect and test all types of electrical equipment in all work situations. at work, and

(b) the risks to ensure the health and safety of persons not in his employment arising out of or in connection with the conduct by him or his undertaking.'

The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 states:

 

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-&- 2330
Syllabus for the Level 2 Certificate in Electrotechnical Technology :

Introduction to Electrical Installation Work

This Chapter describes safe systems of working and the principle of operation of some electrical machines, equipment and systems.

Health and Safety Applications Avoiding Accidents in the Workplace
The Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 places a statutory and common law obligation on employers to take
reasonable care of the health and safety of their workers. The Management of Health & Safety at Work
Regulations 1999 places an obligation on employers to carry out “risk assessments” and, where necessary, to
take action to eliminate or control risks. The Workplace(Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 and the
Construction Health, Safety and Welfare Regulations1996 cover all aspects of the workplace and construction
sites respectively. They include the requirement that all areas where people could fall from a height of two metres or above, are properly guarded. The latest HSE Regulations “Working at Height” were introduced in April 2005. The aim of these Regulations is to avoid working at height, if possible, but where this cannot be avoided, to use the best practicable means of ensuring the safety of those working at height. However, despite all the legislation, we know from the HSE statistics that accidents still occur in the workplace. The most common causes of accidents in the workplace are:
◆ slips, trips and falls
◆ manual handling, that is, moving objects by hand

Healthy and Safety Application and Electrical Principles :

Slips, trips and falls are the most common causes of accidents in the workplace

◆ using equipment, machinery or tools
◆ storage of goods and materials which then become unstable and fall on someone
◆ fire
◆ electricity
◆ mechanical handling To control the risk of an accident we usually:
◆ eliminate the cause, that means, do not do the job or procedure in an unsafe way

Introduction to Electrical Installation Work :

◆ substitute a procedure or product with less risk, that means finding a safer way to complete the job or procedure
◆ enclose the dangerous situation, that means fitting guards or screening off an area and only allowing trained and competent people into a potentially dangerous area
◆ put guards around a hazard, for example, placing guards in front of cutting and grinding wheels
◆ use safe systems of work, that means establishing written procedures for work that is potentially dangerous. These written procedures are sometimes called ‘permits to work’
◆ supervise, train and give information to staff which leads to a ‘competent’ workforce
◆ if a hazard cannot be removed or minimised, then the employer must provide PPE. However, providing personal protective equipment to staff must be a last resort when the hazard cannot be removed in any other way. The PPE must be provided at the employer’s expense

A Hazard is something with the potential to cause harm; for example, electric tools, working above ground level, wet or uneven floors, rotating parts. A Risk is the possibility of harm actually being

A Risk is the possibility of harm actually being done. Is it a high, low or medium risk ? Who is at risk,
done. Is it a high, low or medium risk? Who is at risk the office staff, electricians, the public ? Is the risk adequately controlled ?

A positive, personal attitude to safety reduces accidents at work. Always work and act responsibly

Healthy and Safety Application and Electrical Principles :

and safely to protect yourself and others. Be aware of the hazards around you, the protection available to you and the means of preventing accidents.

Risk Assessment, the Process
We have already said that an employer must carry out risk assessments as a part of a robust Health and
Safety policy. The HSE recommends five steps to any risk assessment.

Step 1

Look at what might reasonably be expected to cause harm. Ignore the trivial and concentrate only on significant hazards that could result in serious harm or injury. For example:
◆ Slipping, tripping or falling hazards, e.g. from poorly maintained or partly installed floors and stairs
◆ Fire, e.g. from flammable materials you might be using such as solvents
◆ Rotating parts of hand tools, e.g. drills
◆ Accidental discharge of cartridge operated tools
◆ Manual handling, e.g. lifting, moving or supporting loads

Step 2
Decide who might be harmed, do not list individuals by name. Just think about groups of people

Healthy and Safety Application and Electrical Principles

LEVEL 3 - UNIT 1 - MOCK EXAMINATION, Application of health and safety and electrical principles:

What does fire legislation require all public buildings, factories and hospitals to have ?
** fire warning systems and fire fighting equipment
fire marshals in each department
first aid posts on all floors
fire proof clothing and equipment on site

In order to prevent the risk of electric shock when working on a control panel, what action should be taken ?
** isolate and lock-off the supply
operate the emergency stop
disconnect the entire installation
switch off the supply at the switch

Under what conditions is increased profitability most likely to occur ?
** if customer satisfaction is sustained
if higher purchase prices are charged
if retail profits are reduced
if employer salaries are reduced

What is the effect of an inductive load on an AC supply ?
power factor lead
power factor unity
no effect
** power factor lag

What is the primary function of a fuse ?
to protect against motor start-up currents
** to protect circuit conductors from damage
to protect appliances connected in the circuit
to protect against electric shock

How can the direction of rotation be changed on a single phase capacitor start induction motor ?
add a capacitor in parallel to the supply
reverse the supply connections to the motor
reverse the capacitor connections
** reverse the connections to the start winding

How can accidents in the workplace be reduced ?
supply more fire fighting equipment
clearly mark all exit signs
** provide safety education and publicity
supply more first aid posts

Which electronic component has the function of detecting changes in light levels ?
thyristor
** photo transistor
fibre optic cable
opto coupler

What type of safety sign is displays a white pictogram on a blue coloured background ?
** mandatory
safe condition information
warning
prohibition

Minimum wage payment and claims for unfair dismissal are rights under which act ?
data protection act
human rights act
** employment rights act
race relations act

What does the development of new technology in the electrotechnical sector require ?
moving employees into less technical roles
preparing employees for possible redundancy
a need to employ younger members of staff
** a need for continual retraining and development

What cable type is used for underground power distribution ?
HOFR
MIMS
LSF
*** PILCSWA

A work colleague has suffered an electric shock, and has no pulse. The appropriate action is to...
place the victim in the recovery position and dial 999
** perform chest compressions and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation
loosen the victims clothing and call 99
perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation

An inductive load with 10 ohms inductive reactance is connected to a 100v 50 Hz AC supply. Calculate the power dissipated in the circuit ( ignoring any conductor resistance.)
** 0kW
1kW
1W
100W

How are the electrical connections made to the rotor of a 3-phase wound rotor induction motor ?
direct connection
commutator
via magnetic connection
** slip rings

What term is used to describe the ability of a capacitor to store a charge ?
volume
charge
capacitive reactance
** capacitance

What does the development of new technology in the electrotechnical sector require ?
a need to employ younger members of staff
** a need for continual retraining and development
preparing employees for possible redundancy
moving employees into less technical roles

The HASAW 1974 act details the basis for how ?
** employers safeguard the health and safety of their employees
employers can reduce any responsibility regarding health and safety in the workplace
how to work in a hazardous work situation without the need for PPE
employees can gain compensation for any accident in the workplace

Which one of the following gases is heavier than air and can cause asphyxiation ?
** methane
helium
hydrogen
nitrogen

By what method are small 3-phase cage rotor induction motors started ?
star/delta starter
** DOL starter
rotor resistance starter
autotransformer starter

Which one of the following is the most common earthing system in the UK ?
** TN-S
TT
TNC-S
TN-C

What is the name given to a person in a company who represents other workers on matters of safety ?
health and safety officer
** safety representitive
safety officer
company nurse

What is the term used to describe the satisfactory performance of systems or equipment ?
fit and performs well
** fit for purpose
performs with minimal maintenance
performs well at all times

What type of machine is a capacitor start capacitor run motor ?
wound rotor machine
3-phase machine
** single phase machine
synchronous machine

The current in a coil changes from 5 amperes to 2 amperes in 50mS and induces a voltage of 30v into the coil. Calculate the value of the inductance of the coil. ?
3H
1.1H
** 0.5H
0.1H

Minimum wage payment and claims for unfair dismissal are rights under which act ?
race relations act
** employment rights act
data protection act
human rights act

 

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Calculate the synchronous speed of the rotating magnetic field in a 4-pole synchronous motor ?
750rpm
3000rpm
1200rpm
** 1500rpm

What are the running characteristics of a 3-phase cage-rotor induction motor under constant load ?
it runs above synchronous speed
it runs at various speeds
** it runs at constant speed
it runs at synchronous speed

Calculate the inductive reactance of a coil with inductance of 0.1H, connected to a 50Hz AC supply. ?
314.2 ohms
3.142 ohms
0.3142 ohms
** 31.42 ohms

A 3-phase 4-wire balanced load is connected to a 3-phase 4-wire supply. Each phase draws 65A from the supply. Calculate the neutral current ?
6.15A
195A
65A
** 0A

A transformer has 1000v (V pri) and 200v (V sec). If current (pri) is 5A, calculate the secondary current ?
** 25A
10A
5A
1A

If a fault occurs in electrical equipment and has the potential to cause harm to employees, what term describes this ?
industrial malfunction
equipment danger
** dangerous occurance
maintenance fault

To what process do the terms storming, norming, forming and performing apply ?
** problem solving
staff organisational restructuring
company manufacturing processes
staff training


Who issues a permit to work ?
a qualified first aider
the tradesperson doing the work
** suitable responsible person
HSE


How is the primary earth connection made on a TT earthing system ?
combined earth/neutral conductor
metallic sheath of the supply cable
utilisation of water and gas pipes
** earth rod into the ground

When should loose clothing or ties not be worn by an employee ?
** when operating rotating machinery
when performing safe isolation
when disconnecting electrical supplies
when working with toxic materials

What is the process of preparing a report on potential health and safety hazards called ?
accident assessment
risk survey
** risk assessment
health survey

Under what fault conditions does a RCD operate ?
phase to neutral fault
** phase to earth fault
open circuit in an earth conductor
open circuit fault in a phase conductor



PPE is provided by an employer, however, it is the responsibility of the employee to ?
report any damaged PPE to the HSE
not to use damaged PPE whilst doing the job
continue to use damaged PPE until it can be replaced
** inspect all PPE before and after use

The peak-to-peak voltage of a sinusoidal waveform is ?
peak
4 x peak
0.5 x peak
** 2 x peak

manual handling regulations

More than a third of all accidents formally reported each year relate to manual handling legislation, the vast majority being ‘over three day’ injuries, most commonly sprains or strains, often of the back. Risks from workplace manual handling tasks are linked to many factors.

Manual handling regulation covers transporting a load and supporting a load in a static posture using the hands or any other part of the body, such as the shoulder. It also includes the intentional dropping or throwing of a load, whether into a container or from one person to another.

Good practice for manual handling health and safety requires employers to avoid manual handling as far as reasonably practicable. They should make a manual handling risk assessment of any hazardous operations that cannot be avoided and reduce risk as far as reasonably practicable and employers need to be up to date with the latest manual handling legislation

Accidents in the workplace

Industrial accident safety information
Workplace accidents are unplanned events (possibly resulting from management failure) that can cause death, injury, pain and suffering to employees, their families, work colleagues and sometimes members of the public.

According to the HSE, over 200 workers and over 300 members of the public die as a result of workplace accidents, over 150,000 injuries to employees are reported under RIDDOR (nearly 6 in every 1,000 employees) of which 40 per cent of these accidents occurred during activities related to manual handling.

Safety in the workplace is a priority because, as well as the human cost, the financial cost associated with accidents in the workplace can be considerable for both the injured person and the employer. Employers are obliged to anticipate danger that could lead to an industrial accident. Safety will be increased if companies follow workplace accident advice by systematically assessing risks and recording the findings.

Incidents (accidents which do not cause injury) are an important learning opportunity and understanding why they occurred can help prevent injury accidents taking place. Understanding and rectifying what causes accidents is an important part of health and safety management.

slips trips and falls

Over a third of all major injuries reported each year are caused as a result of a slip, trip or fall.

Injuries caused by slips, trips and falls are the single most common cause of injuries at work and these accidents cost employers over £500 million a year in lost production and other costs. The risks of employees slipping, tripping or falling should therefore be assessed as part of your general risk assessments.

noise and vibration

Noise affects a wide variety of businesses. When noise is too loud, for too long, it can damage the delicate mechanism of the inner ear, destroying sensitive nerve cells. If you find it difficult to hold a conversation in the workplace, without shouting when standing 2m away from another person, you are likely to have a noise problem.


Hand-arm vibration (HAV) is vibration transmitted from work processes into the hands and arms. It can be caused by operating hand-held power tools, or by holding materials being processed by machinery. Regular and frequent exposure to high levels of vibration can lead to permanent injury. Regular exposure to HAV can cause a range of permanent injuries to hands and arms, collectively known as hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS).

working environment

Health and safety in the day-to-day working environment
Workplace safety encompasses everyone from office to factory workers, whether you’re sat at a desk all day or working out in the fields. We spend longer at work than in almost any other situation and location, and how we work can have a huge impact on our own wellbeing.

Health and safety in the workplace is of paramount importance, not only because health and safety at work legislation places obligations on employers and employees, but because you will optimise productivity if you identify and deal with risks before they cause an adverse impact on any individual in the workplace.

Health and safety regulations require you to take action in response to particular hazards such as working at height, the potential for musculo-skeletal disorders, and the risk of slips, trips and falls.

A clear health and safety policy, backed up by effective procedures, will show your employees you have a genuine emphasis on workplace health and safety. A proactively-managed workplace will enable you to minimise the risk, whether it’s an office or a factory, and maximise the opportunities for your employees.

 

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The impact of the amended Work at Height Regulations : May 2008

With the amended Work at Height Regulations now beginning to bite, employers, employees and contractors can no longer just reach for the nearest set of ladders or steps to gain access at height - they must now carry out risk assessments, a method statement and consider whether an alternative form of access would be safer.

Let's make one thing clear - the regulations do not ban ladders, but they do oblige you to ensure that ladders are not an automatic choice and that alternatives should always be considered.
The choice of access equipment will be determined by the height to be negotiated, the site conditions, the duration and extent of work, and the frequency of required access.

Where a risk assessment highlights the need for a powered access platform, hirers will find them to be quick, convenient to use and easily manoeuvrable - increasing productivity for companies.

The Work at Height regulations bring together all existing work at height regulations and state the minimum requirements for the use of equipment. Although previous regulations applied primarily to work over two metres, the new regulations even cover standing on the bottom rung of a small step ladder.
Employers have a duty of care to ensure that work at height is properly planned, appropriately supervised and carried out in a safe manner. All employers, the self-employed and any other person who controls the work of others should be fully up to date with the new legislation. This includes site managers, contract managers, contractors, and even the building owner who contracts others to work at height.
Employers should particularly note two key areas in the Work at Height Regulations, regulation four and regulation six. Regulation four covers organisation and planning. It states that every employer shall ensure that work at height is:
** Properly planned. You should carry out a risk assessment and have a written system of work. This will only prevent accidents, however, if it is passed on to the employees.
** Appropriately supervised. What experience do your employees have? Are your apprentices competent?
**Carried out in a manner which is, so far as is reasonably practicable, safe. Common
** sense has to be used here - cost or history will never be an acceptable excuse.

Regulation 6 - the avoidance of risks from work at height - ensures that the areas above are complied with. It states: "In identifying the measures required by this regulation, every employer shall take account of a risk assessment under regulation three of the Management Regulations. Every employer shall ensure that work is not carried out at height where it is reasonably practicable to carry out the work safely otherwise than at height."
It is essential to ensure that you take time in the planning and conformity of future works. To assist us in compliance with this regulation the British Standard Institute has published a code of practice (BS 8437:2005) for selection, use and maintenance of personal fall protection systems and equipment for use in the workplace. It brings together best practice in personal fall protection.

Requirements on employers

Most importantly, employers must follow all that is reasonably practicable to prevent anyone from falling. To do so, the regulations define a hierarchy of requirements that duty holders must follow. Duty holders must:
• Avoid work at height where they can.
• Use work equipment or other measures to prevent falls where they cannot avoid working at height.
• Where the risk of a fall cannot be eliminated, use work equipment or other measures to minimise the distance and consequences of a fall should one occur.
Concretely, dutyholders must ensure that:
• All work at height is properly planned and organised.
• Weather conditions are taken into consideration.
All those involved in work at height are trained and competent. This includes that those who will be working at height are trained how to avoid falling, and how to avoid or minimise injury should they fall.
• Equipment is properly inspected.
• The risks from fragile surfaces are properly controlled.
• The risks from falling objects are properly controlled (e.g. nothing should be thrown or tipped from height if it can injure anyone).
• Each individual place at which work at height is done is checked every time before that place is used. This includes that any platform used for or for access to construction work from which a person could fall more than two meters is inspected in place before it is used.

Requirements on employees

Note that also employees have to contribute to minimising the risk from working at height. All employees and all those working under someone else’s control must:
• Report any safety hazards to them.
• Use the equipment supplied to them properly and follow any training and instruction.
• If you think that following some instructions is unsafe, do seek further advice before continuing. Also bring the situation to the attention of your UCATT safety rep.

What is Work at Height ?

There is a quite simple definition for what working ‘at height’ means: a place is ‘at height’ if a person could be injured falling from it.

Advice for workers: ladder safety
In the construction industry numerous falls take place in conjunction with ladders and scaffolding. It therefore is of major importance that contractors, designers and clients make efforts at a very early stage of a project in order to reduce the time that workers need to use access equipment like ladders or scaffolding.
Note that ladders can be used where a risk assessment shows a low risk and where the duration of usage is short, i.e. not more than 15-30 minutes depending on the task, as well as where a situation requires its usage.
If you have to use a ladder, follow the below guidance which helps you to reduce the most common types of falls.

Check the ladder before using it
It is important that the condition of a ladder is checked before using it. Detailed information on how to check leaning and step ladders are contained at the .
In order not to fall off a ladder:
• Keep your body centered within the ladder.
• Always keep three points of contact with the ladder.
• Wear non-slip footwear, clean the soles of shoes if dirty.
• Keep the rungs clean and in good condition.

In order to prevent the ladder wobbling, slipping and falling:
• Position the ladder correctly on a firm, level surface.
• Check the feet of the ladder daily.
• Fasten the ladder at top and bottom.
• Rest the ladder on a firm surface at the top.

In order to prevent the ladder from breaking:
• Do not exceed the maximum weight limit on the ladder.
• Position the ladder properly at an angle of 75 degree (equivalent to the “1 in 4 rule”: feet of the ladder must be one unit away from hold for every 4 units up)
• Only carry light materials or tools (up to 10kg).
Always speak to your supervisor, employer or safety rep if you think it is not right to use a ladder for the job.

Safe use of ladders and stepladders :

An employers’ guide

* know when to use a ladder;

* decide how to go about selecting the right sort of ladder for the particular job;


* understand how to use it;


* know how to look after it; and


* take sensible safety precautions.


2 HSE believes that misuse of ladders at work can be partly explained by the way they are used in the home. As with all work equipment, users need adequate information and training to be able to use ladders and stepladders safely. Adequate supervision is needed so that safe practices continue to be used.


3 This guidance does not apply to fixed ladders (on buildings, plant or vehicles), other types of fixed access (step irons etc), specialist rescue ladders used by the fire service, roof ladders, step stools, warehouse steps/mobile stairs, or temporary or permanent stairs.


When is a ladder the most suitable access equipment ?


4 This selection process has to take into account the hierarchy of controls:1

* firstly to avoid work at height where possible;
* then to prevent falls from height; and, failing that,

* to reduce the consequences of a fall.


5 Where work at height is necessary you need to justify whether a ladder or stepladder is the most suitable access equipment compared to other access equipment options. You do this by using risk assessment and the hierarchy of controls.

6 When considering whether it could be appropriate to use a ladder or stepladder, you need to consider the following factors.

 

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Is it a suitable activity?
7 This refers to the type of work and its duration. As a guide, only use a ladder or stepladder: * in one position for a maximum of 30 minutes; * for ‘light work’ - they are not suitable for strenuous or heavy work. If a task involves a worker carrying more than 10 kg (a bucket of something) up the ladder or steps it will need to be justified by a detailed manual handling assessment;
* where a handhold is available on the ladder or stepladder; * where you can maintain three points of contact (hands and feet) at the working position. On a ladder where you cannot maintain a handhold, other than for a brief period of time, other measures will be needed to prevent a fall or reduce the consequences of one. On stepladders where a handhold is not practicable a risk assessment will have to justify whether it is safe or not (see paragraph 10 for details).
8 On a ladder or stepladder do not: * overload it - the person and anything they are taking up should not exceed the highest load stated on the ladder; * overreach - keep your belt buckle (navel) inside the stiles and both feet on the same rung throughout the task

9 When working on stepladders you should avoid work that imposes a side loading, such as side-on drilling through solid materials (e.g. bricks or concrete), by having the steps facing the work activity , Where side-on loadings cannot be avoided you should prevent the steps from tipping over, for example by tying the steps to a suitable point. Otherwise a more suitable type of access equipment should be used.

10 You should also avoid holding items when climbing (for example by using tool belts): * on a ladder where you must carry something you must have one free hand to grip the ladder; * on a stepladder where you cannot maintain a handhold (e.g. putting a box on a shelf), the use of a stepladder will have to be justified by taking into account:

- the height of the task;
- a safe handhold still being available on the stepladder;
- whether it is light work
- whether it avoids side loading
- whether it avoids overreaching
- whether the user’s feet are fully supported; and
- whether you can tie the stepladder

> Is it a safe place to use a ladder or stepladder ?

13 This covers the specific place where you are going to set up and use it. As a guide, * only use a ladder or stepladder: on firm ground or spread the load (e.g. use a board); * on level ground - for stepladders refer to the manufacturer’s instructions, for ladders the maximum safe ground slopes on a suitable surface (unless the manufacturer states otherwise) are as follows:
- side slope 16o – but the rungs still need to be levelled
- back slope 6º * on clean, solid surfaces (paving slabs, floors etc). These need to be clean (no oil, moss or leaf litter) and free of loose material (sand, packaging materials etc) so the feet can grip. Shiny floor surfaces can be slippery even without contamination; * where it has been secured.
14 The options for securing a ladder are as follows: * tie the ladder to a suitable point, making sure both stiles are tied, * where this is not practical, use a safe, unsecured ladder or a ladder supplemented with an effective ladder stability device * if this is not possible, then securely wedge the ladder, e.g. against a wall; * if none of the above can be achieved, foot the ladder. Footing is the last resort and should be avoided, where reasonably practicable, by the use of other access equipment.
15 Ladders used for access to another level should be tied . Stepladders should not be used for access to another level unless they have been designed for this.
16 Consider tying a stepladder where possible and advantageous to the task (e.g. side-on working or where two free hands are needed).

 

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17 You should only use ladders or stepladders: * where they will not be struck by vehicles, by protecting them with suitable barriers or cones; * where they will not be pushed over by other hazards such as doors or windows, by securing doors (not fire exits) and windows where possible. If this is impractical, have a person standing guard at a doorway, or inform workers not to open windows until they are told to do so; * where pedestrians are prevented from walking under them or near them, by using barriers, cones or, as a last resort, a person standing guard at the base; * where ladders can be put up at the correct angle of 75o. To judge the angle use the angle indicator marked on the stiles of some ladders or the 1 in 4 rule (1 unit out for every 4 units up , * where the restraint devices on stepladders can be fully opened. Any locking devices must also be engaged.
18 On a ladder or stepladder: * don’t work within 6 m horizontally of any overhead power lines, unless the line owner has made them dead or protected with temporary insulation. If this is a regular activity, find out if the lines can be moved; * always use a non-conductive ladder or steps for any necessary live electrical work; * don’t rest ladders against weak upper surfaces (e.g. glazing or plastic gutters). Alternatively, you can use effective spreader bars or effective stand-offs ,
Is the ladder or stepladder safe to be used ? 19 Establish the ladder or stepladder is in a safe condition before using it. As a guide, only use ladders or stepladders that: * have no visible defects. They should have a pre-use check each working day; * have a current detailed visual inspection. These should be done in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Ladders that are part of a scaffold system still have to be inspected every seven days; * are suitable for work use. Use Class 1 or EN 1314 ladders or stepladders at work because domestic (Class 3 ) ones are not normally suitable for use at work; * have been maintained and stored in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
> What are pre-use checks and detailed visual inspections ? 20 Both are looking for obvious visual defects, they only differ in detail. Both can be done in-house (pre-use checks should be part of a user’s training). Detailed visual inspections should be recorded. Ladder stability devices and other accessories should be pre-use checked and inspected in accordance with the , manufacturer’s instructions. Ladder and stepladder feet must be part of the pre-use check. Ladder feet are essential for preventing the base of the ladder slipping. Missing stepladder feet cause it to wobble. The feet should be: * in good repair (not loose, missing, splitting, excessively worn, secure etc); and * clean – the feet should be in contact with the ground.

21 Ladder feet should also be checked when moving from soft/dirty ground (e.g. dug soil, loose sand/stone, a dirty workshop) to a smooth, solid surface (e.g. paving slabs), to ensure the foot material and not the dirt (e.g. soil, embedded stones or swarf) is making contact with the ground.
Do my ladder-users know how to use them safely ?
22 These are common issues about setting up and using ladders under the direct control of the user. Users should also be aware of the limitations covered in the other headings. People should only use a ladder, stepladder or stability device if:

* they are competent - users should be trained and instructed to use the equipment safely; * the ladder or stepladder is long enough -
for ladders:
- don’t use the top three rungs);
- ladders used for access should project at least 1 m above the landing point and be tied; alternatively a safe and secure handhold should be available;
for stepladders:
- don’t use the top two steps of a stepladder, unless a suitable handrail is available on the stepladder ;
- don’t use the top three steps of swing-back or double-sided stepladders, where a step forms the very top of the stepladder * the ladder or stepladder rungs or steps are level. This can be judged by the naked eye. Ladders can be levelled using specially designed devices but not by using bits of brick or whatever else is at hand; * the weather is suitable - do not use them in strong or gusting winds (follow the manufacturer’s safe working practices); * they are wearing robust, sensible footwear (e.g. safety shoes/boots or trainers). * Shoes should not have the soles hanging off, have long or dangling laces, or be thick with mud or other slippery contaminants; * they know how to prevent members of the public and other workers from using them; * they are fit - certain medical conditions or medication, alcohol or drug abuse could stop them from using ladders. If you are in any doubt, speak to an occupational health professional; * they know how to tie a ladder or stepladder properly.

23 On a ladder or stepladder, don’t:
* move them while standing on the rungs/steps;
* support them by the rungs or steps at the base;
* slide down the stiles;
* stand them on moveable objects, such as pallets, bricks, lift trucks, tower * scaffolds, excavator buckets, vans, or mobile elevating work platforms;
* extend a ladder while standing on the rungs.

Ladders guidance

* Prevented from slipping,
* Prevented from moving before it is stepped on,
* Long enough to do the job safely,
* Have a handhold available to allow the worker to maintain 3 points of contact where possible,
* Used without overreaching,
* Inspected and checked regularly where necessary.