Past Exam Papers

December 2005 A2               December 2005 A1

December 2006 A1               December 2006 A2

NCC1 2007                           NCC1 Dec 2007                      NGC1 Dec 2007

Past Exam Paper INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATE IN CONSTRUCTION

INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATE IN CONSTRUCTION HEALTH AND SAFETY
UNIT ICC1: MANAGING AND CONTROLLING HAZARDS IN INTERNATIONAL CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES

Download available from http://www.nebosh.org.uk/shop

Typical Examination Questions based on Element 8

``1.	Outline the factors that may affect the efficiency of a local exhaust ventilation (LEV) system.	(8)
	Factors can include: Blocked filters. Hood placed too far from source of contaminant. Lack of maintenance and testing. Unauthorised alterations. Wear or corrosion of fan blades. Incorrect settings. System overwhelmed by increase in contaminant. Inadequate design
2.	Identify the information that should be included on a hazard data sheet supplied with a hazardous substance.	(8)
	Information should include: The name of the substance. It's chemical properties and composition. The nature of hazards. Relevant standards (e.g. Occupational exposure limits). Precautions to be observed in its transport, handling and use. Measures to take in an emergency (e.g. spillage or accidental exposure) including first-aid treatment and disposal requirements.
3.	a) List the elements of a hierarchy for the control of airborne contaminant (b) Outline TWO reasons why a cartridge-type respirator may in practice fail to provide a sufficient level of protection.	(6) (2)
	Control measures in correct order of use are: Elimination of the substance or its substitution with something less harmful. Possibility of reducing exposure by introducing changes in working methods (e.g. use of brush instead of spray or, pellets instead of dust), or to work patterns. Segregation or enclosure of the process and provision of LEV). Lastly, the provision of PPE. Reasons include: Poor fit of the respirator, either because of the use of other PPE at the same time or facial hair. The use of incorrect cartridge. The cartridge not being properly fitted. Failure to change the cartridge at appropriate intervals. Inadequate storage facilities leading to respirator being damaged or contaminated.
4.	(a) Describe the typical symptoms of occupational dermatitis. (b)State the factors that could affect the likelihood of dermatitis occurring in workers handling dermatitic substances. (6)	(2) (6)
	Symptoms are reddening, blistering and cracking of the skin with a possibility of infection and ulceration. Factors include; the nature of the agent, concentration levels and the duration and frequency of exposure when dermatitis substances are handled. Additional factors that could increase the risks include cuts and abrasions that would allow the chemical to be absorbed more readily. Existing skin conditions, the type of skin and its sensitivity, the specific site of skin contact, poor personal hygiene and the misuse of protective measures are other factors
5.	Outline the Factors to be considered in the selection of respiratory equipment for persons carrying out welding activities
	Factors to be considered include: The nature and concentration of contaminants released from the welding process. The material to be welded including any surface coatings (eg lead paint) and the constituents of the filler materials must all be assessed. Once this has been done a range of suitable respiratory protective equipment that would offer adequate protection can be considered. In doing so consideration would be given to the compatibility of the equipment with the work to be done and any other PPE, ergonomic considerations (Bulkiness, comfort etc.), the level of training required, the duration and use, the ease of maintenance and the costs
6.	(a) Define the term 'target organ' within the context of occupational health. (b) Outline the personal hygiene practices that should be followed to reduce the risk of ingestion of a hazardous substance.	(2) (6)
	(a)Target organs are , the organs of the human body upon which a toxic material exerts it effort. (b) Personal hygiene practices would include, washing hands before eating , the avoidance of eating or drinking and smoking in the workplace, utilising facilities for contaminated clothing, appropriate use of gloves and avoiding hand to mouth contact

Typical Examination Questions based on Element 7

1.	(a) Explain the methods of heat transfer that can cause the spread of fire. (b) Outline the main requirements of a safe means of escape from a building.	(8) (12)
	(a) Methods are Conduction (e.g. through a plastic coffee cup), convection (e.g. up a chimney), radiation (e.g. from a fire) and direct burning (e.g. of any fuel such as wood) (b) Emphasis on fire resistant materials for escape route walls, ceilings and doors. Easy exit provisions with doors opening in direction of travel and self-closing. Notices identifying, and lighting of, escape routes. Good housekeeping on routes to ensure no obstacles and no flammable substances on routes. Distances form workstations into an escape route. A safe assembly point. Fire alarm and extinguisher stations on route towards safe routs.
2.	(a) Outline the main factors to be considered in the siting of fire extinguishers. (b) Outline the inspection and maintenance requirements for fire extinguishers in a workplace.	(4) (4)
	(a) Accessibility, proximity to exits, travel distances, situated at fire points, protection when required from weather or other sources of damage. (b) Inspection should be routinely carried out to ensure extinguishers are in place, have not been discharge, damaged, have pins missing or, because of a change in local conditions or work are unsuitable for the fires they are meant to deal with. Maintenance is something more extensive and usually involves annual tests by a competent person according to the manufacturer's instructions in order to ensure the integrity of the extinguisher, with the removal and replacement of equipment found faulty.
3.	List EIGHT features of a safe means of escape from a building in the event of a fire.	(8)
	Issues include; at least two escape routes available in two directions from work-areas taking account of escape distances from workplace to protected zone. The fire resistant integrity of escape routes. The ability of fire doors to be easily opened in direction of escape and to self close. The need to ensure escape routes are kept free from obstructions. Appropriate siting and marking of assembly points. Fire escape notices of the appropriate type. Lighting of escape routes. Suitability for people with special needs.
4.	(a) Outline TWO advantages and TWO disadvantages of using hose reels as a means of extinguishing fires. (b) Outline the main factors to consider in the siting of hose reels.	(4) (4)
	(a) Advantages – (i) A continuous supply of water that is of a greater force and quantity than an extinguisher has. (ii) User does not need to be close to the fire. Disadvantages – Effort required to position and use a hose, The hose can compromise smoke barriers by keeping doors ajar and water is not suitable for use on all fires. (b) Issues are; accessibility (should be on, or adjacent to, an escape route e.g. on a stairwell). Recessing where possible into walls to avoid blocking escape routes. Possible sealed hole from hose to pass from stairwell into offices etc. Positioned to give maximum coverage in terms of the length of hose, where frost will not cause the water to freeze and they will not be subject to misuse or vandalism.
5.	(a) With reference to the fire triangle, outline TWO methods of extinguishing fires. (b) State the ways in which persons can be harmed by fire in work premises.	(4) (4)
	(a) Examples: starvation (removing the fuel). Smothering (Eliminating oxygen). Cooling (pouring water on to the fire) or by interfering chemically with the combustion process. (b) Harmed by being burnt, inhaling smoke, by depleted oxygen supply, falling parts of a building or by being crushed or suffering some other injury in trying to escape.
6.	(a) Identify FOUR types of ignition sources that may lead to a fire in the workplace. (b) Outline ways of controlling each of the ignition points identified in (a).	(4) (4)
	(a) Ignition sources include: Smoking, hot work and surfaces, electricity, reactive chemicals, and arson. (b) Control could include: Smoking - ban or restriction on smoking. Hot work and surfaces -ensuring no combustible materials are in the vicinity of hot work. Electricity - ensuring no over-loading of circuits and proper care and maintenance of electrical equipment. Reactive chemicals - control through work practices and procedures including storage. Arson - having good security arrangements including restriction of strangers in building and diligent supervision.

Typical Examination Questions based on Element 6

1.	a) Describe the possible effects of electricity on the body. b) Outline FOUR factors that may affect the severity of injury from contact with electricity.	(4) (4)
	Affects such as interference with nerve/muscle action, tissue burns and cardio-respiratory effects, in particular the risk of fatal injury due to disruption of heart rhythm. As far as tissue burns are concerned, candidates should have identified as the main sites of damage the entry and exit points and warned of the possibility of damage to internal organs. Better responses included reference to secondary injuries such as head injuries caused by falls following electric shock. Factors such as the voltages involved the length of contact time, the route taken through the body, and the general health and age of the person involved. Additional factors that might affect the severity of the injury include the dryness of the skin, natural body resistance, ground conditions and the type of footwear being worn at the time.
2.	Outline the measures to be taken to minimize the risk of shock from the use of electric hand tools.	(8)
	Measures include: The use of reduced low voltage trough a transformer centre-tapped to earth The use of residual current devices or earth leakage protection. The protection and safe positioning of supply cables Using double-insulated equipment Using cordless (battery operated) equipment Ensuring the correct rating of fuses Introducing a system for routine visual inspection and testing of cables and equipment
3.	HSG65 Electricity at Work-Safe Working Practices gives guidance on the frequency of inspection for such equipment. State frequencies for the inspection and testing of electrical hand held tools and associate equipment used on a construction site and support your answers with appropriate examples.	(8)
	A hand held tool and equipment should be visually inspected before use, including cables, cord grips, casings and plugs. 230 volt equipment should be tested before first use and then at monthly intervals while a formal weekly inspection is also required. 110 volt equipment should be tested before first use and then at three monthly intervals while a formal monthly inspection is also required. Extension leads should have an initial test before first use followed and then at monthly intervals while a formal weekly inspection is also required
4.	List the items that should be included on an inspection checklist designed to ensure the safety of portable electrical hand-tools.	(8)
	Items on list could include: Equipment appropriate for the task and environment, equipment tested, plugs, connectors and cables free from damage or defect, correct wiring and sound connections, fuses and other means of preventing excess current in place and of correct rating, accessibility and appropriate means of isolation and system not overloaded.
5.	In relation to the use of electrical cables and plugs in the workplace: (i) Identify FOUR examples of faults and bad practice that could contribute to electrical accidents. (ii) Outline the corresponding precautions that should be taken for each of the examples identified in (i).	(4) (4)
	Examples include: Failure to select right equipment for the environment (armoured or heat resistant cables may be require). Incorrect rating of fuses. Ineffective or discontinuous earthing. Overload of Socket outlets. Cables unnecessarily long (or too short). The use of coiled extension leads. Poorly wired plugs (wires under tension or outer protective sheath not clamped). The use of defective cables and plugs. (ii) Precautions should have followed automatically from the deficiencies listed in (i)

Typical Examination Questions based on Element 5:- Work equipment - hazards and control

1.	A leaking underground concrete reservoir has been emptied in order that it can be visually inspected prior to its subsequent repair. Describethe health risks faced by those repairing the reservoir when pneumatic tools are to be used to remove defective concrete and epoxy resin material used to effect repairs.	(10)
	Risks from excessive noise, the possibility of hand-arm vibration syndrome, and respiratory sensitisation and dermatitis from the use of epoxy materials, musculoskeletal problems due perhaps to the constraints of the working environment or the weight of the equipment. The repair task would also give rise to the possibility of respiratory problems associated with exposure to concrete dust
2.	Hand-held electric drills are commonly used on construction sites. Other than electricity. Outline FOUR hazards associated with the use of such equipment.	(8)
	Other hazards include entanglement with chuck or bit, stabbing or puncture by the drill bit, noise, vibration, dust and hazards associated with trailing cables.
3.	On a long-term contract, joiners are working with medium density fibreboard using hand-held circular saws and portable electric planers in a temporary site unit. Explainhow you would ensure that the joiner's health is not put at risk during this activity.	(8)
	Measures that include: assessment of the levels of dust, noise and vibration; the provision of efficient dust extraction equipment or respirators with the appropriate protection factor; the provision of hearing protection and the need to manage vibration by the use of lower vibration tools or job rotation.
4.	(a) Describe when a fixed guard would be an appropriate means of providing protection against mechanical hazards. (b) Outline the features of fixed guards designed to minimise the risk of injury or ill health from dangerous parts of machinery	(2) .(6)
	(a) Appropriate when providing protection against mechanical hazards when infrequent or no access is required to dangerous parts of a machine during its normal operation. (b) Factors such as; the material of construction, which should be sufficiently robust and be able to contain any ejected material, but still allow sight of the process when required; the method of fixing, usually requiring the use of a special tool for the guards removal; the need to ensure that any necessary openings in guards are such that they do not allow access to the dangerous parts and the need to address the possibility of the guard reverberating and exacerbating a noise problem

Manual Handling Quiz

from www.healthandsafetytips.co.uk

1.	When is a manual handling risk assessment required?
	Before the task is carried out and no other option is available
2.	What are the FOUR Elements of a Manual Handling Risk Assessment?
	T…………….Task I……………..Individual L…………….Load E…………….Environment
3.	What should you do when confronted by a large or awkward load that has to be manually handled?
	Stop and assess whether there is an alternative method Assess the load to see if it can be handled safely, Ask for assistance
4.	Name 2 of an EMPLOYER'S Duties?
	Tasks should be assessed with a view to using alternative methods where possible Ensure personnel requested to complete the task have had adequate training and capable of completing the task without injury
5.	Name 2 of an EMPLOYEE'S Duties?
	To ensure that the correct methods of manual handling techniques are adopted
6.	Name 2 parts of the body you may injure during Manual Handling Activities
	Spine , Abdomen / groin
7.	List 3 Key points of KINETIC lifting
	The load should be lifted whilst keeping the back straight , feet correctly placed, and perform a clean lift without twisting
	Manual Handling Questions Model Answers
1.	When it is not reasonably practical to avoid an activity that may result in injury to the employee. When it is not reasonably practical to use mechanical means for the operation.
2.	Task, Individual, Load, Environment.
3.	Seek Assistance and Use team Lifting Methods.
4.	Safe Appliances and Equipment Safe Handling of Materials Information, Instruction and Training A SAFE Place of Work and Safe Working Equipment A Safe Means of Access and Egress A Suitable and Sufficient Risk Assessment for all Work Activities
5.	Take reasonable care of their own safety and that of others. Co-operate with their employer to enable him to meet their legal obligations. Bring to the attention of the employer any concerns regarding health and safety standards. To use equipment provided for your health and safety.
6.	Back, Hands, Knees, Arms, Legs.
7.	Position and Plant Feet, Bend Knees, Straight Back, Arms Close to Body, Good Grip of the Load, Chin In, Head Up, No jerking or twisting, clean lift.

Typical Examination Questions based on Element 4 Manual and mechanical handling hazards and control

1.	Identify the main items to be checked by the person appointed to have overall control of a lifting operation which is to be carried out with the use of a crane hired for the purpose.	(8)
	Items such as; the need to carry out an overall assessment of the operation to take account of the ground conditions for the proposed site of the crane and the presence of any overhead obstructions such as power lines; the suitability of the lifting appliance and associated equipment selected with particular reference to their safe working loads; the documentary evidence to prove that the required examinations, inspections and maintenance had been carried out; the competence of all personnel involved in the operation such as the crane driver, slinger and banksmen and their familiarity with the hand signals or other means of communication that were to be used.
2.	List the range of defects that might be observed in a wire rope sling during routine inspection prior to use.	(8)
	Defects such as kinking, broken wires ('needles'), ovalling caused by external wear or stretching, corrosion, damage to thimbles and ferrules, 'birdcaging' and the lack of any identification or indication of the sling's safe working load.
3.	Concrete building blocks are to be moved on a construction site. Outline the key issues to be addressed if the blocks are to be moved by mechanical and manual means. Give practical examples within your answer.	(8)
	A manual handling assessment would have to be carried out to determine if mechanical or manual means were to be used. The assessment would consider the issues relating to the load (number and weight of blocks to be moved), the task (horizontal and vertical distances to be moved), the environment (ground conditions, lighting and space to maneuver), and the individual (physical characteristics and training in manual handling). If the decision was then taken to use mechanical means the key issues include the selection of suitable equipment, the competence of operators, and issues connected with ensuring safe stacking and storage. Provision of adequate access routes that are free from obstruction is an important issue for both manual and mechanical handling
4.	Outline the measures required to ensure the safe operation of an inclined hoist used to raise and lower roofing materials.	(8)
	Measures such as the importance of the hoist being in good state of repair, well maintained and with its controls marked to indicate their functions; inspected when in use by a competent person; positioned on stable ground and erected according to the manufacturers' instructions; protected with barriers at both top and bottom levels; attended at all times whilst in use, with care being taken to ensure that the load was secured and not in excess of the safe working load of the hoist
5.	Outline the factors that might cause a mobile crane to overturn during use.	(8)
	Factors such as the failure to set the crane on a level footing, siting it on poor and unstable ground and failing to distribute the weight of the crane by providing adequate timber beneath outriggers would be likely to cause it to overturn. Additional factors affecting the stability would be overloading, incorrect slinging resulting in an unstable load, operating when winds are too strong and driver error such as slewing too quickly or causing an abrupt movement of the jib.

Typical Examination Questions based on Element 3

1.	Outline the measures to be taken to prevent falls associated with stairwells and other holes in floors during the construction of a multi-storey building.	(8)
	The provision of guard rails for stairwells and lift shafts, hand rails on stairs, fixing covers over other holes in floors, providing adequate levels of lighting, ensuring a good standard of housekeeping and a high level of supervision and control.
2.	Outline the hazards associated with small dumper trucks.	(8)
	Hazards include, amongst others: collisions with pedestrians, other vehicles or structures; overturning due to uneven ground or excavations; falls of materials or persons from truck; contact with moving parts or hot surfaces; and noise and vibration.
3.	A significant number of the accidents associated with work on construction sites are associated with plant and vehicle movement. Outline the control measures that should be adopted to prevent such accidents occurring.	(8)
	Control measures such as site planning and maintenance of traffic routes to segregate pedestrians and vehicles; imposing site speed restrictions and preventing unauthorised use or movement of plant; compliance with general safety requirements in respect of all plant and machinery such as the proper selection of equipment, the need to ensure that dangerous parts of machines were properly guarded, and that a regime of planned inspections and maintenance and procedures for reporting defects was put in place and finally ensuring that all operators were competent to perform the tasks allotted to them.
4.	Outline a hierarchy of measures to minimize the risks from reversing vehicles on a construction site.	(8)
	One of the first measures is to eliminate or reduce the need for reversing by introducing a one way system and providing turning circles or loading/unloading areas. In circumstances where this might not be possible, it would be necessary to ensure that safe systems of work were in place and followed. Such systems would include the exclusion of pedestrians from site traffic areas, the use of banksmen, the provision of information, instructions and training and the mandatory wearing of hi-visibility clothing. The vehicles would need to be fitted with audible/visual reversing warning devices and features such as CCTV and Fresnel lens and mirrors
5.	The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 require that work equipment used in hostile environments is inspected at suitable intervals. Identify the items on a small dumper truck that should be the subject of such an inspection.	(8)
	Items include the provision and condition of roll over protection and driver restraints (e.g. seat belts); the condition of the bodywork and seats; the condition of the tyres; the effectiveness of the braking system, steering and warning devices; the performance of the bucket release and tilt mechanisms; the integrity of fuel, oil and hydraulic systems and the legibility of labels and signs.

Typical Examination Questions based on Element 2

1	Site preparation work involves the removal of topsoil from land known to be contaminated with heavy metals. Outline the specific requirements for this work in relation to: welfare facilities.	4
	Facilities such as a decontamination unit with a dirty area where contaminated clothing can be removed after work, an area with a shower or other means of washing and a clean area where normal clothes can be stored. Additionally, there should be arrangements in place in order to prevent contamination when eating and smoking, and first-aid and emergency decontamination should be made available.
2	Describe the shape and colours of the following classes of safety sign prescribed by the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996. (i) Prohibition (ii) Warning (iii) Mandatory (iv) Emergency escape / first-aid (2)	2 2 2 2
	A round sign with a black pictogram on a white background together with red edging and a diagonal red line. A triangle with black border and orange centre. A blue circle. A green rectangle.
3	A tank that measures 4 meters long, 3 meters wide and 2 meters deep is to be buried in a green field site as part of a surface water drainage system. Outline the principle hazards that should be considered when planning the work.	8
	Hazards such as ground conditions, type of ground, possible presence of contaminants; the excavation work with the risk of collapse of the sides, persons or vehicles falling in, the presence of groundwater, possible flooding; health hazards such as leptospirosis; the lowering of the tank, crane overturning if it is not correctly rated for the job or properly sited; the presence of underground and overhead services
4	Outline the precautions to be taken before lifting operations are carried out adjacent to high voltage overhead power lines.
	To consult the electricity supply company, to make lines dead where possible, goalpost barriers, height restriction placed on vehicles, the use of banksmen, the placing of warning signs and barriers, communication of safety precautions to all involved and to have emergency procedures in place.	8

Example Examination Questions for Element 1

List Four duties of the CDM coordinator under the (Design and Management) Regulations 2007

• Advise the client of his responsibilities under the regulations.
  
• Notify the HSE on form F10
  
• Compile the Project health and safety file
  
• Liaise with designers and principle contractor with all matters H$S
  

Outline the principle duties of a client under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007

The client duties under the CDM 2007 Regs include the assessment of competence of all appointed contractors, it is his duty to ensure there are sufficient resources and time scales for the project to complete safely including the provision welfare facilities. Provide all relevant pre-construction information is passed on to relevant parties.

Additional duties for notifiable projects include the appointment of the Principle contractor and the CDM Co-ordinator whilst ensuring there is a proper project management plan in place, and the construction phase is in place and retains the health and safety plan whilst providing access to the CDM Co-ordinator and other concerned parties.

List Four duties of the Designers under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007

• Review and remove hazards at the design stage
  
• Provide information as to any remaining hazards
  
• Advise the client of their duties under the CDM 2007 Regs.
  
• Provide information relevant to the CDM coordinator for the H$S file
  

In relation to the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 outline the meaning of "notifiable Project"

In relation to the CDM 2007 Regs the term "notifiable project" refers to project which a construction phase which is longer than 30 days and or 500 man days, then the project is notifiable to the HSE using form F10 and this is the responsibility of the CDM Coordinator who is required to be appointed for notifiable projects.