ISA Board Certified Master Arborist (BCMA) — Practice Exam
Safety: practice questions
Our ISA Board Certified Master Arborist bank has 26 questions on this topic. Here are 5 of them with answers; the full mock exam draws from every topic, like the real one.
Question 1
Which PPE does the BCMA outline list under hand protection?
- Latex exam gloves only, so the worker keeps full feel for the saw controls
- Cut-resistant, flame-resistant and anti-vibration gloves
- No gloves
Show the answer
B. Cut-resistant, flame-resistant and anti-vibration gloves — Domain 14, Task 5.
Question 2
Under 1910.67, may a worker belt off to an adjacent tree from an aerial lift?
- No; attach to the boom or basket
- Yes, below 20 feet
- Yes, if the tree is sound and the lanyard is attached above the worker's head
Show the answer
A. No; attach to the boom or basket — Climbers (spurs) may not be worn in an aerial lift.
Question 3
What does OSHA advise when an overhead line falls near a worker?
- Run away with long strides as fast as possible, or jump clear of the equipment
- Move away with short, shuffling steps, feet close together
- Lift the line with a branch
Show the answer
B. Move away with short, shuffling steps, feet close together — OSHA Solutions for Tree Care Hazards.
Question 4
How must a chain saw be started under OSHA's logging standard?
- On the ground or firmly supported, with the chain brake on
- With the brake off
- By drop starting, holding the rear handle and pulling the cord as the saw falls
Show the answer
A. On the ground or firmly supported, with the chain brake on — Drop starting is prohibited.
Question 5
What leg protection must chain saw operators wear under OSHA's logging standard?
- Knee pads
- Knee pads and denim work pants, worn with leather boots that cover the ankle
- Shin guards
- Cut-resistant protection from thigh to boot top
Show the answer
D. Cut-resistant protection from thigh to boot top — Ballistic nylon is an example.