NEBOSH International General Certificate

Paper II Workplace hazards and Control

Question and Answers

1. (a) Identify FOUR sources of ignition that may lead to a fire in the workplace.

(4)
(b) Outline methods of reducing the risk of a fire in the workplace.
(8)
(c) Outline the measures that should be in place for a successful evacuation of a workplace in the event of a fire.

(8)

Answer
(a) The main sources of ignition which lead to fire such as incorrectly installed electrical equipment; machinery and plant
which was badly maintained such as friction caused by inadequate lubrication; chemical reactions that may give off heat;
hot work such as welding or cutting; smoking materials which are discarded in an unsafe manner; hot surfaces such as
those on cooking or heating appliances; sparks from cold working such as grinding; and static electricity arising from the
incorrect transfer of flammable liquids.
(b) The ways of reducing the risk of a fire starting in a workplace include the control of smoking and smoking materials; good
housekeeping to prevent the accumulation of waste paper and other combustible materials; regular lubrication of
machinery to prevent sparks; regular inspection of electrical equipment for damage; ensuring that electrical systems are not
overloaded and isolating equipment that is not in use; ensuring ventilation outlets on equipment are not obstructed;
controlling hot work by permits or by the creation of designated areas; providing proper storage facilities for flammable
liquids away from sources of ignition; segregating incompatible chemicals and implementing security procedures to reduce
the risk of arson.
(c) The measures include: the provision of means for detecting the fire and for raising the alarm; an acceptable distance to the
nearest available exit; escape routes of sufficient width and fire protected; clear signing of escape routes; the provision of
emergency lighting; escape routes kept clear of obstructions with fire doors closed to prevent the spread of smoke; the
provision of fire fighting equipment; the appointment and use of fire marshals; procedures for the evacuation of those with
a physical impairment (in relation to hearing, sight or mobility); the identification of a safe assembly point and the need to
practice the evacuation plan at regular intervals.
2

(a) Identify FOUR mechanical hazards associated with the use of a pedestal drill.(4)
(b) Outline FOUR control measures to reduce the risk of injury to operators of pedestal drills. (4)

Answer
(a) Mechanical hazards associated with the use of a pedestal drill include: entanglement of clothes or hair with the drill bit
or chuck; stabbing injuries from the end of the drill
bit; contact with the drill chuck resulting in abrasions; and ejection of, or impact by, unclamped work pieces, made
worse by the fact that the work piece may be spinning at fast speed on the bit. Cutting hazards may also be presented
by metal swarf produced by the drilling process.
(b) Control measures which could reduce the risk of injury to operators include ensuring stop/start controls, emergency
stop devices and isolator switches are operative; the fitting of robust and adjustable guarding around the chuck and
drill bit; ensuring the regular removal of swart round the drill bit to prevent build up; the removal of the chuck key
before putting the drill into motion; ensuring the operators are trained and competent and are not wearing items of
loose clothing and/or jewellery; the provision of personal protective equipment such as eye and face protection and
introducing procedures for the regular maintenance of the machine.
3.

Identify the main hazards associated with demolition work. (8)

The main hazards associated with this type of work include working at height; falling debris and premature collapse; use of
explosives; contact with and noise from equipment and heavy plant; the presence of dust which might possibly include
asbestos; the presence of flammable substances or hazardous materials from previous uses of the building; the presence of
cellars or vaults affecting the stability of adjoining premises; the possible presence of services such as electricity, gas and
water; biological hazards arising from the presence of vermin and stagnant water; the presence of sharps such as nails and
glass and hazards arising during manual handling operations.

4.

A recent increase in work-related ill-health has been noticed amongst workers who use a solvent for which a workplace
exposure limit (WEL) has been set.
a.

Explain the meaning of the term 'workplace exposure limit'. (2)

b.

Give possible reasons for the increase in work-related ill-health amongst the workers. (6)

Answer
(a) The term "workplace exposure limit" (WEL) is concerned with concentrations of hazardous substances in the air that
people breathe averaged over a specified period of time and referred to as a time weighted average.
Two time periods are used: long term (8 hours) intended to control effects by restricting the total intake by inhalation
over one work shift and short term (usually 15 minutes) to control effects that may be seen after a brief exposure.
(b) Important reason for the increase in work related ill-health might have been the inadequacy of the original risk
assessment carried out for the operation or a subsequent increase in the frequency and duration of the exposure of
employees. Additionally, the original degreasing solvent might have been replaced by a new solvent for which no risk
assessment had been carried out. Other reasons would include a failure to carry out health screening of new employees
or to give them adequate training on the precautions to be observed; an increase in the quantity or concentration of the
solvent used; an inadequate or poorly maintained local exhaust ventilation system; a failure to carry out regular
monitoring to ensure the work exposure limit was not being exceeded and a poor standard of personal hygiene on the
part of the workers.
5.

Repair work is to be carried out on the roof of a school.

(a) Identify control measures to reduce the risks to roof workers. (6)
(b) Identify TWO control measures to reduce the risks to other persons. (2)

Answer
(a) The work activity and initially an assessment should be made to gauge the condition of the roof and to check for the
presence of fragile materials. It would then be necessary to provide safe means of access, normally by the erection of a
scaffold; to use roof ladders or crawling boards; to erect edge protection with guard rails and toe boards to prevent the
fall of persons and materials and either to provide barriers and signage round areas on the roof containing fragile
materials or to cover them to prevent persons falling through. Other precautions would include provision for
transporting tools and materials to the roof and the removal of waste; the use of appropriate personal protective
equipment such as hard hats and footwear and the employment of competent personnel.
(b) Control measures that would reduce the risks to others include the provision of barriers at ground level to prevent
access to the working area by children, teachers or members of the public; scheduling the work so that the more
hazardous operations are carried out when the school was unoccupied; the prevention of unauthorized access to the
roof by removing or blocking off ladders; introducing a high standard of monitoring and supervision and paying a
good will visit to the school to advise on the potential hazards associated with the operation and the precautions that
should be taken by staff and pupils.
6.

Outline prevention strategies an organisation could consider to reduce the risk of violence towards workers. (8)

Answer
The prevention strategies include, the completion of initial risk assessments by a competent person; the design of the
workplace and public areas to restrict access and the use of security equipment such as CCTV, alarm systems and personal
alarms and panic buttons; secure areas with coded locks and physical barriers and the use of check-in and check-out
procedures; job design with a reduction in cash holdings and the introduction of by appointment systems and team working
where practicable; the use of trained security staff; procedures for lone and out of hours working and for home and off-site
visits; introducing procedures for the reporting of incidents and providing employees with training in confrontation
management and stress reduction techniques. Although the risk of violence is a particularly current problem, candidates
showed little evidence in their answers that they had considered the problem and were in a position to suggest appropriate
prevention strategies.
7.

Workers are employed to carry out ground maintenance on a large area of land containing grass, bushes and trees. Outline
the hazards to which they may be exposed. (8)

Answer
Hazards such as those connected with the use of tractor units, mowing machines and hand held strimmers including the
possible exposure to noise and vibration; those involved with the manual handling of machinery and refuse; slips, trips and
falls including falls from a height when carrying out tree surgery; hazards associated with the handling of fuel, pesticides
and other chemicals; the possibility of being bitten by animals and/or insects or coming into contact with animal faeces or

discarded drugs paraphernalia; and hazards involving prolonged exposure to the sun or conversely to adverse weather
conditions.

(a) Identify FOUR forms of hazardous substance for which respiratory protective
equipment could be used to reduce the risk of harm. (4)
(b) Outline factors that could reduce the effectiveness of the respiratory protective
equipment. (4)

Answer
(a) The forms of hazardous substances such as dusts, gases, vapours, mists, fume and micro-organisms. Instead of "forms" of
hazardous substances, however, some candidates offered specific examples such as asbestos.
(b) The factors include a reduction in battery power; the fitting of incorrect cartridges or a failure to replace them before
saturation; equipment incorrectly fitted, perhaps due to facial characteristics, or incompatibility with other personal
protective equipment being worn; the level of the hazard and the work rate of the individual; inadequate training in its use;
poor maintenance and inadequate facilities for storage; damage occurring during use and a failure to provide the level of
monitoring and supervision to ensure the equipment was always used when required.

(a) Identify the effects on the human body from a severe electric shock. (4)
(b) Identify FOUR factors that could affect the severity of injury resulting from contact with electricity. (4)

Answer
(a) The effects include the interference with nervel muscle action, leading to involuntary grip; cardiopulmonary effects, in
particular the risk of fatal injury due to disruption of heart rhythm; and tissue burns - but should have added to this by
referring to the main sites of damage as being the entry and exit points and to the possibility of damage to internal organs.
(b) The factors such as the voltage and the type and size of the current involved; the path taken through the body by the current;
the length of contact time; the general health and age of the person involved; the electrical resistance of the skin and the
internal body resistance; factors associated with the footwear and clothing being worn by the person; environmental issues
such as the floor surface and the possibility of secondary sources of injury particularly if the person affected is working at a
height.

10 A worker is manually loading boxes of components onto metal shelves.

(a) Identify FOUR types of injury that the worker could suffer while carrying out this task. (4)
(b) Identify factors in relation to the task that will increase the risk of injury. (4)
(c) The identifying potential injuries such as spinal disc compression or a prolapsed disc; strains to tendons, muscles or
ligaments; hernia; dislocation or fracture of bones; cuts and abrasions; crushing or impact injuries and work related
upper limb disorders (WRULDs).
Answer
(a) The four types of injuries include spinal disc compression or a prolapsed disc; strains to tendons, muscles or ligaments;
hernia; dislocation or fracture of bones; cuts and abrasions; crushing or impact injuries and work related upper limb
disorders (WRULDs).
(b) The identification of factors related to the task which could have increased the risk of injury. Examiners were looking for the
identification of task related factors such as the manipulation of the load at a distance from the trunk; the work rate and
periods allowed for rest and recovery; excessive carrying distances; excessive lifting or lowering distances; and the need to
adopt unsatisfactory body positions because of space restrictions.

11 Identify the control measures that could be implemented to reduce the risks to pedestrians in areas where vehicles are
manoeuvring. (8)
Answer
The control measures are such as the management of traffic movement including the introduction of one way systems and
the designation of specific traffic routes; segregation of pedestrians from transport with the demarcation of walkways and

the provision of barriers and refuges; maintaining good visibility by means of mirrors, transparent doors and the provision
of lighting; the enforcement of site rules covering speed restrictions and limited areas of access for vehicles; the fitting of
visual and audible alarm devices to vehicles; ensuring that workers wore high visibility clothing; ensuring that floors were
regularly cleaned and kept free from spillages and introducing procedures for the regular maintenance of vehicles with
particular reference to the condition of steering, brakes and tyres.

12 An organisation uses small quantities of toxic chemicals.

(a) Identify FOUR possible routes of entry of toxic substances into the body. (4)
(b) Explain the difference between acute and chronic health effects. (4)
(c) Identify the sources of information which could be used in the assessment of risk of toxic substances. (4)
(d) Outline the control measures that might be required in order to minimise risks to workers. (8)
Answer
(a) The possible routes of entry of toxic substances into the body as inhalation, ingestion, injection and through the skin
particularly if an open wound was present.
(b) The difference between acute and chronic health effects. in the case of acute health effects, the adverse effects appear
after a single or short term exposure to the agent, and the response is invariably rapid or immediate. In most cases,
acute effects recede on cessation of exposure. Chronic health effects, on the other hand, usually result from prolonged
or repeated exposure to the agent. The response is normally gradual, often progressive and irreversible, and may go
unrecognized for long periods of time.
(c) The sources of information such as product labels, published limit values such as work exposure limits, material safety
data sheets, the results of internal inspections and audits and monitoring and health surveillance data. Most answers
referred only to data sheets and labels.
(d) Control measures such as the use of suitable containers for the chemicals carrying warning signs as to their danger; the
methods used for handling the chemicals; procedures for the clearing up and containment of spillages; the provision of
adequate ventilation for the working areas and the use of personal protective equipment such as chemical proof gloves,
eye protection and overalls; site rules setting out the hygiene procedures to be followed and prohibiting eating or
smoking in the working areas; setting up emergency procedures including first aid provision; providing employees
with instruction, information and training on the handling of toxic substances and ensuring the provision of adequate
supervision and monitoring to check that control measures were being followed.

13 (a) Identify FOUR hazards that cause slips and trips. (4)
(b) For the hazards identified above, outline measures that can be used to control the risk.(4)
Answer
(a) There are many reasons people slip or trip, including the floor being poorly maintained, changes in level caused by
ramps, slopes or kerbs, slippery surfaces caused by oil or water, other spillages being left in place and not cleaned up,
inadequate lighting, the wearing of inappropriate footwear, general obstructions in walkways such as trailing cables,
pipes and air hoses and miscellaneous rubbish being allowed to accumulate and block pedestrian routes.
(b) Control measures such as improved work layout with designated walkways; using non-slip flooring; highlighting
changes in level with hazard warning strips; providing good lighting; introducing procedures for reporting defects and
for dealing with spillages; and ensuring high standards of housekeeping to keep floors clear of obstructions.

14 Outline the precautions that should be taken when using mobile cranes. (8)
Answer
The precautions include the crane and its attached lifting gear are suitable for the task; that the ground on which the crane
is to be sited is flat and firm and that the outriggers of the crane are always correctly positioned; that the driver and slinger
to be used in the operation are competent; that there are no obstructions such as overhead power lines or buildings in the
vicinity of the lift and that warning signs and barriers are erected to ensure that the area where the lift is to take place is
kept clear of personnel not directly involved in the lift. The actual lift should involve carrying the load smoothly at an
appropriate height and ideally to an arranged lifting plan though few candidates did refer to this precaution. A maintenance
worker regularly uses a hand held grinder, and is exposed to vibration.

15 A maintenance worker regularly uses a hand held grinder, and is exposed to vibration.
(a) Identify the symptoms that the worker may experience due to this exposure. (2)
(b) Outline SIX control measures that can be used to reduce the risk from vibration. (6)
Answer
(a) The symptoms include tingling, numbness and blanching of the fingers and swollen and painful joints in addition to a
reduction in dexterity, strength and sensory perception.
(b) The control measures include substituting the tools in use with equipment with lower vibration characteristics; reducing
the exposure time of the workers by for example using equipment that will complete the work more quickly or
introducing job rotation; introducing a planned maintenance programme for the tools to avoid increased vibration
caused by faults or general wear; fitting anti vibration grips to the equipment; providing personal protective equipment
such as gloves, hats and waterproofs to keep the operators warm and dry and encouraging workers to maintain a good
blood circulation by giving up or cutting down on smoking and massaging and exercising fingers during work breaks.

16 Identify EIGHT common causes of fires in the workplace. (8)

Answer
The common causes of fires are faulty or incorrectly used electrical equipment; machinery and plant which was either
incorrectly used or badly maintained such as friction caused by inadequate lubrication; chemical reactions that may give
off heat; hot work such as welding or cutting; smoking materials which are discarded in an unsafe manner; hot surfaces
such as those on cooking or heating appliances; sparks from cold working such as grinding; static electricity arising from
the incorrect transfer of flammable liquids and arson.

17 Outline the hazards that a worker could be exposed to when using a petrol driven chainsaw to cut down a tree. (8)
Answer
The hazards associated with the task include contact with the moving parts of the chainsaw; exposure to fumes and dust;
hazards arising from manual handling operations; exposure to noise and vibration; falls from a height; handling lubricating
oils which might lead to dermatitis; flying particles such as tree bark and sawdust; uneven ground or wet grass which could
lead to slips and falls; falling objects such as branches or the tree itself; contact with overhead services and hazards arising
from adverse weather conditions.

18 (a) Outline the possible effects on health from exposure to high levels of noise. (6)
(b) Outline TWO noise control techniques that would benefit all workers. (2)
Answer
(a) The possible effects from exposure of noise levels include noise induced hearing loss (caused by damage to the hair
cells of the inner ear with reduced hearing capacity at particular frequencies) and tinnitus and temporary effects such
as temporary threshold shift, acute tinnitus, stress and fatigue. They also referred to the possibility of acute trauma
such as a burst eardrum caused by exposure to sudden loud noise.
(b) The noise control techniques are absorption, using porous material such as foam or mineral wool; damping using metal
or plastic to absorb energy; isolation by the use of rubber mounts and insulation using brick walls or double skinned
enclosures. There was the occasional reference to the use of hearing protection that might not be considered to be a
control technique that would benefit all workers.

19 Excavation work is being carried out on a construction site. Identify the control measures needed to reduce the risk to
workers. (8)
Answer
Control measures that should have been identified include: the detection of underground services by using plans or
cable/pipe detectors; supporting the sides of the excavation by shoring or benching; storing materials and spoil away from
edge of the excavation; providing means to prevent vehicles falling into the excavation such as stop blocks; providing
guard-rails and barriers to prevent people falling into the excavation; providing means of support for adjacent structures to
prevent collapse; providing safe means of access/egress into the excavation; .for noxious fumes and providing ventilation if

necessary; using pumps to protect against flooding; taking precautions to safeguard the workers from biological hazards or
those caused by the presence of contaminated ground and arranging for the excavation to be inspected at regular intervals
by a competent person.

20 (a) Identify the hazards associated with the use of a cement mixer. (4)
(b) For the hazards identified above, outline control measures that can be used to reduce the risk. (4)
Answer
(a) Refer to hazards such as manual handling; the corrosive and irritant properties of cement; inhalation of the cement dust;
machinery hazards such as moving parts, ejection of materials and noise and hazards connected with the power supply
to the mixer.
(b) Control measures include the use of mechanical means for manual handling or if this was not possible, training the
worker in correct lifting techniques and allowing adequate rest breaks; the provision and use of personal protective
equipment such as gloves and overalls to reduce contact with cement; the provision and use of respiratory protective
equipment such as dust masks to prevent the inhalation of cement dust; fitting guards to the mixer to prevent contact
with its moving parts and to prevent the ejection of materials and wearing hearing protection to reduce the effect of
noise; prohibiting the mixer from operating in confined areas if run on petrol or diesel together with the provision of
storage facilities for the fuel to protect against the risk of fire or if electrically operated, the use of residual current
devices to minimise the risk of shock.

21 (a) List FOUR specific types of injury that could be caused by the incorrect manual handling of loads. (4)
(b) Identify factors in relation to the load that will affect the risk of injury. (4)
Answer
(a) The injury that might be caused by the incorrect manual handling of loads and these would include spinal disc
compression or prolapsed disc, torn ligaments or sprained tendons, hernia, dislocation and fractures, muscular strain,
cuts and abrasions and crushing and impact injuries. This part of the question was poorly answered with candidates
writing in vague and general terms of "back pain or "musculoskeletal injuries" which were insufficient to gain marks
since a list of specific types of injury was required.
(b) The nature of a load can present a risk of injury during manual handling activities. They should have identified factors
such as the size and weight of the load, the possibility that the contents might move and the load become unbalanced,
the centre of gravity not in the centre of the load, difficulty in securing a firm grasp of the load and the presence of
sharp edges.

22 Forklift trucks are operating in a busy workplace. Identify suitable control measures to reduce the risk of collision with
workers. (8)
Answer
Identified control measures including the management of traffic movement such as the introduction of one way systems
and the designation of specific traffic routes; segregation of pedestrians from transport with the demarcation of walkways;
the enforcement of site rules covering speed restrictions and limited areas of access for trucks; the fitting of visual and
audible alarm devices to the trucks; the provision of adequate lighting, mirrors and transparent doors; ensuring that workers
wore high visibility clothing; ensuring that floors were regularly cleaned and kept free from spillages and introducing
procedures for the regular maintenance of the trucks with particular reference to the condition of steering, brakes and tyres.

23 (a) Identify FOUR types of hazards for which local exhaust ventilation (LEV) would be an appropriate control measure
giving an example in EACH case of the harmful effect that might be produced. (8)
(b) Outline the factors that may reduce the effectiveness of a local exhaust ventilation system (LEV). (12)
Answer
(a) The hazards such as dust which could cause coughing, sneezing and possible damage to the lung; chemicals which
might cause irritation and have toxic effects; allergens which might aggravate an asthmatic condition; microbiological
substances which could cause various diseases; asphyxiates with their ability to cause respiratory effects and exposure
to heat often leading to heat exhaustion. Apart from dust, many candidates were unable to identify any additional types
of hazard.

(b) There is a range of factors that might reduce the effectiveness of a local exhaust ventilation system. They include
damage to the system such as splits or holes in the ducting; blocked or incorrect filters; fan inefficiency as a result of
blade wear or corrosion; initial design issues; process changes; unauthorized alterations such as an increase in the
number of outlets; incorrect use such as a failure to position the hood close enough to the source of emission; a build
up of dust in the ducting; blocked or obstructed outlets and a failure to provide a system of regular maintenance,
inspection and testing.

24 Identify the factors that could contribute towards the development of work-related upper limb disorders (WRULDs)
amongst workers at a supermarket checkout. (8)
Answer
The identify factors such as space constraints resulting in employees being forced to adopt fixed and static positions; nonadjustable equipment such as chairs and the design of the scanning equipment; over reaching often during the handling of
bulky and heavy articles; a high pace of work and high levels of repetition; environmental conditions such as temperature
and humidity; a lack of job rotation and a failure to provide adequate breaks; the age of the workers with some having preexisting conditions and a lack of appropriate training and supervision.

25 (a) In relation to the classification of fires, give an example of a material (fuel) that falls within EACH of the classes A, B,
C and D. (4)
(b) Identify TWO methods of heat transfer AND explain how EACH method contributes to the spread of fire. (4)
Answer
(a) Some examples of fuel sources for the classes of fire such as for Class A, solids usually of an organic nature such as
wood, paper or plastic; for Class B, liquids or liquefiable solids such as petrol, oil, paint or wax; for Class C, gases
such as LPG, natural gas and acetylene; and for Class D, finely divided metals such as zinc and magnesium.
(b) The methods of heat transfer such as conduction involving the molecule to molecule transfer of heat through
conducting solids such as metal beams or pipes to other parts of the building and igniting combustible or flammable
materials; radiation involving the emission of heat in the form of infra red radiation which can raise temperatures of
adjacent materials so that they reach their ignition temperatures or flash points; convection which allows hot gases to
rise and either become trapped beneath a ceiling or travel through voids and ducts to remote parts of a building, in both
cases raising temperatures; and finally direct burning where heat comes into direct contact with combustible material
and causes ignition.

26 Outline the main hazards associated with excavation work. (8)

Answer
This question considered all aspects of excavation work and not just the situation of a person within an excavation who
might be harmed by a collapse of the sides, contact with buried services, ingress of water, build-up of fumes or being
struck by falling materials. Broader answers also included the hazards associated with the use of machinery, the effect of
the excavation work on adjacent structures, the possibility of vehicles or people falling into unprotected excavations,
biological hazards such as leptospirosis, coming into contact with contaminated land and even at this late stage the possible
presence of an unexploded bomb.

27 Outline the specific hazards associated with the use of battery-powered forklift trucks and state the precautions necessary
in EACH case. (8)
Answer
The hazards include that relating to battery charging leading to the generation of hydrogen gas which may be ignited by
electrical arcing, causing explosion or fire. This calls for the provision of a dedicated charging station with adequate
ventilation, free from ignition sources and well signed to warn persons of the potential danger. There is also the possibility
of employees being burned by battery acid when carrying out maintenance work on the truck so that they would need to be
provided with and wear personal protective equipment such as gloves and eye protection.
The batteries themselves are heavy and consequently suitable lifting facilities and arrangements would have to be provided.
There is always the possibility of electric shock and burns through the shorting of battery leads and to protect against this
possibility, adequate insulation, a correct connection procedure and the wearing of gloves would be needed. Finally there
are the hazards associated with the actual use of the trucks and the potential for collision with pedestrians since the trucks

are virtually silent when running. This calls for the delineation of traffic routes, the wearing of high visibility clothing by
pedestrians and the sounding of the truck's warning device by drivers when personnel are being approached.

28 Identify the electrical hazards that could be discovered by a visual inspection. (8)
Answer
Electrical hazards that might be discovered during a visual inspection include: evidence of bare wires and conductors; cuts,
abrasions and cracks in inner and outer cable insulation; damage to plugs and sockets and a failure to cord grip the cable; a
lack of circuit protection such as the absence of an appropriate fuse or a failure to use a residual current device; evidence of
incorrect, unsafe or unauthorised repairs; overloaded circuits and sockets; damage to the outer case of an appliance and the
absence of effective operating controls; appliances in a dirty or wet condition with vent holes filled with dust; no evidence
of the provision of an adequate earth; the incorrect choice of an appliance for the task to be carried out; and portable
appliance tests which were out of date.

29

(a) Identify THREE forms of biological agents. (3)

(b) Identify THREE possible routes of entry into the body for a biological agent. (3)
(c) Give TWO control measures to reduce the risk of exposure to a biological agent. (2)

Answer
(a) Biological agents that could have been identified include bacteria, viruses, fungi.
(b) Possible routes of entry into the body for a biological agent include inhalation, injection, ingestion, inoculation and/or
injection and absorption through the skin or mucosal membranes.
(c) Control measures such as cleaning, sterilization and disinfection; the use of personal protective equipment such as
gloves, respiratory and eye protection and an overall; containment of the agent in a microbiological safety cabinet; the
use of spill trays; the prohibition of smoking and eating/drinking in the work area; a good standard of personal hygiene
and immunization.

30 Identify the control measures to prevent slip and trip hazards in an engineering workshop. (8)
Answer
Control measures such as: the initial design and layout of the workplace with designated walkways and non-slip floors; a
system of maintenance which ensures the prompt repair of floor defects such as holes and bumps; procedures for avoiding
and dealing with spillages particularly those associated with the filling and draining of machinery and its maintenance; the
provision of adequate lighting and highlight strips to warn of a difference in levels; the provision of hand rails and edge
protection on stairways; a good standard of housekeeping (including the proper management of cables and hoses) and
procedures for reporting defects and incidents.

31 Outline the factors that may lead to occupational stress amongst workers. (8)
Possible causes of increased stress levels could usefully have been divided into those relating to the organisation of the
work or task and those relating to workplace interactions. Job factors might include the existence of a poor health and
safety culture within the organisation; a lack of commitment by and support from management and a failure to provide
adequate information, instruction and training; work patterns such as shift work or unsocial hours; excessive overtime;
repetitive or monotonous work; a lack of adequate breaks; a lack of control over the job with the allocation of too much or
too little responsibility; work loads too high or too low; the task not matched to the skills of the person; environmental
factors such as noise, temperature and ventilation and job insecurity and the fear of redundancy particularly at times of
organizational change. Interactions involve such issues as harassment, bullying, discrimination, fear of violence, poor
communication and general relationships with management and work colleagues. There are also a range of personal and
social factors such as illness financial worries and family commitments that could increase an employee's level of stress at
work, even if some may not be work related.

32

Identify the mechanical hazards shown in the diagrams below AND for EACH give ONE workplace example.

Answer
The
mechanical
hazards
including
appropriate workplace examples would
have been as follows:
(a) Entanglement - with a spindle or the
chuck of a drill.
(b) Crushing - between the moving table of
a planning machine and a fixed structure.
(c) Drawing in - into meshing gears or the feed rolls of a paper making machine.
(d) Shear - as might occur in a scissor lift.

33 Describe FOUR types of guard used on machinery AND give an appropriate application of EACH. (8)
Answer
The four guards include a fixed guard, describing it as a physical barrier which was not linked to the machine operation
and required a special tool for its removal. This kind of guard is often used on belt and pulley drives to machines. The
second one is interlocked guard, which is linked to the machine operation and prevents access when the machine is in a
dangerous condition while also preventing operation of the machine until the guard is in position. An appropriate
application of this type of guard would be on a power press. A third category of guard, the trip device, stops movement of
the machine when approach is detected and is often found as a means of protection on drilling machines whilst finally, an

automatic or self acting guard such as a push away guard on a guillotine, is linked to the machine mechanism and
physically moves the operator away from the danger zone.

34 (a) Identify the possible indications of a dust problem in a workplace. (4)

(b) Describe how the body may defend itself against the harmful effects of airborne dust. (6)
(c) Outline, using practical examples where appropriate, the control measures that may be used to reduce levels of dust in a
work environment. (10)
Answer
(a) Identifying indications of a dust problem that might include: fine deposits on surfaces, people and products; dust
particles visible in the air, plant issues such as blocked filters; complaints from the workforce of discomfort and
irritation; and cases of ill-health reported or detected by health surveillance.
(b) Harmful effects of airborne dust. The majority mentioned coughing and sneezing but only the better informed referred
to the filtering effect of nasal hairs and to the role of mucus in the respiratory tract and bronchi, which allows dust
particles to be trapped and then carried upwards by tiny hairs (cilia). Fine dust particles reaching the bronchiotes may
be subject to the engulfing action of scavenging cells (macrophages) and absorbed into the bloodstream. Damage to
the eyes may be prevented by the action of tear ducts, causing the eyes to 'water' and dust particles to be removed.
(c) The control hierarchy and referred to control measures such as: elimination (eg by introducing pre-formed components
or outsourcing the dusty operation); substitution (eg of powder ,by granules, liquid or paste); isolation of the process in
a separate room; enclosure (in a glove box, for instance); the provision of local exhaust ventilation; and suppression by
damping down and carrying out cleaning operations by vacuuming rather than sweeping.

35 (a) Outline the main factors to be considered in the fitting of fire extinguishers. (4)
(b) Outline suitable arrangements for the inspection and maintenance of fire extinguishers in the workplace. (4)
Answer
(a) Typical factors mentioned included accessibility, visibility, proximity to exits and escape routes, travel distances from
the extinguisher to the possible location of a fire, the means of supporting the equipment off the ground and without
causing obstruction, and the need to protect extinguishers from the weather and other sources of damage.
(b) The arrangements include outlining procedures to ensure that fire extinguishers remain operational. Frequent visual
inspection of fire extinguishers is required to ensure that they are in place, they have not lost pressure and free from
damages. Frequent inspections should be done to ensure safety clips are functioning and that there are no signs of
corrosion.
Maintenance usually involves an annual examination and test by a competent person according to the manufacturer's
instructions in order to ensure the integrity of the extinguisher, with the date of the examination recorded on the
extinguisher and the replacement of equipment found to be faulty. An extinguisher should be discharged and refilled at
regular intervals. At greater intervals an extinguisher should undergo complete overhaul or replacement.

36 Outline the issues that should be addressed by an organization when developing a system for the safe collection and
disposal of its waste. (8)
Answer
The issues include the identification of waste by its hazardous properties (eg general, biological or special waste) and by its
nature (eg solid or liquid); the quantity produced; the need for separation of incompatible wastes; the means for containing
waste and its marking and labelling; the provision of safe storage on site and the methods of transportation to and from the
storage facility; the appointment of a competent and/or licensed' waste contractor; possible pollution issues arising from
spillages; the competence and training of staff; and the keeping of the necessary records.

37 A person is employed to lay carpet tiles using a solvent-based adhesive. In relation to the use of the adhesive in such
circumstances:
(a) Identify the possible effects on health (4)
(b) Outline the control measures that should be considered. (4)

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Answer
(a) The possible health effects include skin and eye irritation, dermatitis, headaches, nausea and dizziness, together with
other possible, and more serious, effects such as narcosis and loss of consciousness.
(b) The control measures should include the possible substitution of the adhesive for a less toxic or volatile one, using the
minimum amount of the substance for the job, the use of a respirator and other personal protective equipment (eg
overalls and gloves), good personal hygiene, and the provision of information, instruction and training to the fitter.
Ventilation to work area.

38 Outline the FOUR main categories of guards and safeguarding devices that may be used to minimize the risk of contact
with dangerous parts of machinery. (8)
Answer
The first one is fixed guards, described as a physical barrier held in place at all times, not linked to the machine operation and
requiring a special tool for its removal. Next, interlocked guards could have been described as a guard linked mechanically,
electrically, hydraulically or pneumatically to the machine operation and preventing access when the machine is in a dangerous
condition, while also preventing operation of the machine when the guard is open. The adjustable or self-adjusting guard, is
essentially a fixed guard that has elements that can be adjusted (or which adjust themselves) to allow for the material being
processed. Typical examples can be found on circular saws and drill chucks. Lastly, the trip device (for example, a pressure
mat, probe or photo-electric system) stops movement of the machine when approach is detected.

39 (a) Give FOUR reasons why accidents may occur on stairs. (4)
(b) Outline ways in which accidents on stairs may be prevented. (4)
Answer
(a) Reasons such as poor design of the staircase (inadequate handrails, steep, poor tread/riser ratio, etc) , slippery condition
of the stairs. (highly polished, icy, oily, etc) , a poor state of repair (eg worn steps or loose coverings), obstructions on
the stairs, a poor standard of lighting, and bad practice (including the carrying of loads, rushing, improper footwear,
etc).
(b) The ways to prevent accidents on stairs include the removal of obstructions and the provision of non-slip surfaces,
reflective edging and adequate lighting. maintenance of the stairs, together with the safe design and construction of the
staircase, including the provision of handrails. The introduction and monitoring of site rules and procedures for using
stairs could also have been included.

40 Identify FOUR different types of hazard that may necessitate the use of special footwear, explaining in EACH case how the
footwear affords protection. (8)
Answer
Different types of hazards that include: falling objects (steel toe-caps); sharp objects (steel insoles); chemicals (chemical
resistant); hot materials (heat resistant boots with gaiters); slippery surfaces (non-slip soles); cold environments (insulated
boots); wet environments (rubberised boots or we/lingtons); spread of contamination (washable boots); flammable
atmospheres (anti-static footwear); and electricity (non-conducting soles).

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Outline the practical measures to reduce the risk of injury from electricity when using a portable electrical appliance
on a construction site. (8)

Answer
Relevant measures include: the appropriate selection of equipment such as battery-operated appliances or those operating
at a reduced voltage (typically 110v); cables connected to the power supply with proper connectors; the use of residual
current devices; the training of operators in the checking procedures to be followed before use; the introduction of a regular
appliance inspection and testing procedure; and the avoidance of using the appliance in wet conditions.

42 Mobile tower scaffolds should be used on stable, level ground. List EIGHT additional points that should be considered to
ensure safe use of mobile tower scaffold. (8)
Answer

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The additional points considered to ensure safe use of scaffold include, ensuring the correct ratio between height and base
dimensions of the tower, the use of diagonal bracing, stabilizers and locking wheels, the provision of toe boards and
handrails, ensuring that the platform is fully boarded, the prevention of overloading, taking account of overhead
obstructions and power lines; the provision of suitable means of access; the need to ensure the tower is not moved when
loaded with equipment and/or people.

43 An organization is about to purchase a fork-lift truck. With reference to its possible intended use and working environment
outline the particular features of the vehicle that should be taken into account when determining its suitability for the job.
(8)
Answer
The salient features such as the power source of the truck, its size and capacity, the height of the mast, the type of tyres and
waming systems fitted, and the protection provided for the operator, the power source, the choice of battery, diesel or LPG
would depend partly on whether the truck was to be operated indoors or outdoors, while in the case of tyres, the choice of
solid or pneumatic would depend on the nature of the terrain over which the truck was to run, competency of the drivers
etc.

44 (a) Identify the persons that an employer may need to appoint in order to comply with the Ionizing Radiations Regulations
1999. (2)
(b) Outline the means of controlling exposure to ionizing radiation. (5)
Answer

(a) The persons would be radiation protection supervisors and radiation protection advisers. Credit could also be given to
references to 'classified persons', perhaps a little generously since they are designated rather than appointed.
(b) The means of controlling exposure are enclosures (ranging from a concrete and/or lead encasement to a glove box);
shielding by barriers or screens; segregation by distance; reducing the exposure time of the employees involved; the
use of personal protective equipment such as respirators, aprons and full body suits; environmental or personal
monitoring with, for example. the use of film badges; the correct disposal of waste; and issues relating to training,
supervision and personal hygiene, Information, instruction and supervision.

45 Outline EIGHT rules to follow when a fork-lift truck is left unattended during a driver's work break. (8)
Answer
The rules to follow include returning the fork-lift truck to a designated area; parking on firm, level ground; leaving the
truck with the mast tilted slightly forward and the forks resting on the floor, isolating the power with the ignition key
removed and retained by a responsible person; and parking the truck away from other vehicles and in a position that does
not cause obstruction to traffic routes, fire points or emergency exits.

46 Outline the precautions that might be taken in order to reduce the risk of injury when using stepladders. (8)
Answer
The precautions include the need to ensure that the stepladder is inspected for defects before use; that it is correctly erected
on level ground with its chain or rope fully extended; that it is suitable for the task to be performed and does not involve
carrying out work from the top step; that it is footed by a second person when necessary; that it is correctly positioned to
avoid over-reaching; and that it is not overloaded.
47 (a) Explain, using a suitable sketch, the significance of the 'fire triangle' . (4)
(b) List FOUR types of ignition source that may cause a fire to occur, giving a typical workplace example of EACH type.
(4)
Answer
(a) Each side of the fire mangle represents one of three elements - namely, fuel, oxygen and a source of ignition - all three
of which must be present for combustion to occur.
(b) The four types of ignition source together with an example include electricity (eg arcing or overheating due to faulty
wiring, poor connections or excess current); chemical reactions (any reaction between chemicals that giVes off heat);
operations involving hot work or sparks (eg welding, cutting, grinding); naked flame or burning material (eg discarded
smoking materials); friction caused by, for instance, inadequate lubrication of machinery; and hot surfaces, such as
those on cooking or heating appliances.

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