CSCS Health, Safety & Environment Test — All Questions

Under COSHH, what should you do before you start using a hazardous substance?

• a.Open all the containers to see what they smell like
• b.Mix it with other chemicals to test it
• c.Nothing special is needed
• d.Check the COSHH assessment and safety data sheet, and use the control measures and RPE specified✓

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations require a COSHH assessment. Read it and the safety data sheet, use the stated controls (ventilation, extraction, RPE) and follow storage and disposal rules.

You are working in an older building and disturb material you think may contain asbestos. What should you do?

• a.Stop work immediately, do not disturb it further, leave the area and report it✓
• b.Keep working but hold your breath
• c.Take a piece home to check it
• d.Sweep it up quickly with a brush

Asbestos fibres cause fatal lung diseases and are most dangerous when disturbed and made airborne. Stop, avoid spreading the fibres, warn others, and report it so licensed specialists can assess it. Do not sweep or dry-brush it.

Cutting, grinding or drilling concrete, stone or brick creates dust that can cause serious lung disease. This dust is:

• a.Harmless once it settles
• b.Good for your health
• c.Only a problem outdoors
• d.Respirable crystalline silica, which can cause silicosis and should be controlled with water suppression or on-tool extraction and RPE✓

Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) is released when cutting or grinding masonry and can cause silicosis and other lung diseases. Control it by cutting with water suppression or on-tool dust extraction and by wearing suitable respiratory protection.

Prolonged skin contact with wet cement or concrete can cause:

• a.A pleasant cooling effect
• b.Chemical burns and dermatitis, so you should wear waterproof gloves and wash it off promptly✓
• c.Nothing at all
• d.Stronger skin

Wet cement is highly alkaline and can cause serious chemical burns and dermatitis. Wear waterproof gloves, keep skin covered, and wash any splashes off the skin quickly with clean water.