CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test (Operatives) — Practice
Working at height: practice questions
Our CITB HS&E Operatives bank has 26 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
Why must a plan be in place to rescue someone left hanging in a harness after a fall?
- The harness straps may cut off blood to the person's hearing
- Rescue is only needed if the person asks
- Hanging in a harness for a long time can cause serious harm
- The anchor will release after five minutes
Show the answer
C. Hanging in a harness for a long time can cause serious harm — A rescue plan is needed before work starts so a suspended worker can be brought down quickly.
Question 2
According to HSE, which is the most common cause of fatal injuries to construction workers?
- Electric shocks
- Contact with chemicals
- Fires on site
- Falls from height
Show the answer
D. Falls from height — Falls from height account for the largest share of construction fatalities.
Question 3
What is the first step in the work at height hierarchy?
- Avoid working at height where reasonably practicable
- Provide everyone with a harness
- Use a ladder rather than a scaffold wherever one will reach
- Put a sign up warning of the drop
Show the answer
A. Avoid working at height where reasonably practicable — The order is: avoid work at height; prevent falls using existing safe places or equipment; minimise the distance and consequences of a fall.
Question 4
On a working platform, what is the minimum height of the main (top) guard rail?
- 750 mm
- 850 mm
- 950 mm
- 1500 mm
Show the answer
C. 950 mm — Schedule 2 requires the top guard rail to be at least 950 mm above the edge.