CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test (Operatives) — Practice
Electrical safety: practice questions
Our CITB HS&E Operatives bank has 18 questions on this topic. Here are 4 of them with answers; the full mock exam draws from every topic, like the real one.
Question 1
What tools are used to locate buried cables before digging?
- A spirit level, plumb line and long tape measure
- A tape measure and chalk line
- A torque wrench and spanner
- A cable avoidance tool (CAT) and signal generator
Show the answer
D. A cable avoidance tool (CAT) and signal generator — CAT and genny, used by trained people with service plans, help locate buried services.
Question 2
You find a damaged cable on a power tool. What should you do?
- Wrap insulating tape round it and carry on
- Cut out the damaged bit and twist the wires
- Take it out of use, label it and report it
- Use it only for short jobs until it is fixed
Show the answer
C. Take it out of use, label it and report it — Defective electrical equipment must not be used until repaired by a competent person.
Question 3
Under the Electricity at Work Regulations, who may work on electrical systems?
- Anyone with a pair of insulated gloves and a voltage tester
- Only people with the knowledge and experience to avoid danger
- Anyone who has used an electric drill
- Any worker aged over 18
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B. Only people with the knowledge and experience to avoid danger — Regulation 16 requires competence, or adequate supervision, to prevent danger.
Question 4
What should you do before using a power tool?
- Plug it in to see if sparks appear
- Pull hard on the cable to test it will not come loose
- Remove the plug cover to check the fuse
- Check the tool, plug and cable for visible damage
Show the answer
D. Check the tool, plug and cable for visible damage — Most electrical faults can be spotted by a quick visual check before use.