ISA Certified Arborist — Practice Exam
Safe work practices: practice questions
Our ISA Certified Arborist bank has 42 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
What control must every power saw used in tree work have?
- An automatic chain oiler shut-off for idle periods
- A speed limiter that holds the saw at half throttle
- A remote kill switch carried by the ground worker
- A control that returns the saw to idle
Show the answer
D. A control that returns the saw to idle — The clutch must also be adjusted so it doesn't drive the chain at idle (1910.269(r)(5)(ii)–(iii)).
Question 2
How often must a climbing rope be inspected under OSHA's tree trimming rules?
- Only after a fall
- Before each use
- Once a year
- Once a month
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B. Before each use — A rope found unsafe may not be used (1910.269(r)(7)(ii)).
Question 3
At what 8-hour average noise level must employers run a hearing conservation program?
- 70 dBA
- 85 dBA
- 95 dBA
- 110 dBA
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B. 85 dBA — Hearing protectors must be available at no cost at that level (1910.95(c) and (i)).
Question 4
Before servicing an in-woods chipper, what does OSHA's logging standard require?
- Only remove the key
- Shut it down and lock it out
- Open the access doors while it coasts
- Slow the drum to idle
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B. Shut it down and lock it out — Covers may not be opened until the drum or disc has completely stopped (1910.266(h)(4)).
Question 5
How should a chain saw be held while cutting?
- With the thumb resting along the top of the front handle
- Any way that the operator finds most comfortable at the time
- With thumbs and fingers of both hands encircling the handles
- With one hand on the rear handle only, for better reach
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C. With thumbs and fingers of both hands encircling the handles — OSHA 1910.266(e)(2)(viii), unless the employer shows a greater hazard in a specific situation.