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Confined spaces questions for the CSCS MAP test

4 free questions on Confined spaces, from section D. High risk activities. Every question is original and explains why each option is right or wrong.

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Question 1

Medium ·Link to this question (question 1)

You are planning work inside a sewer chamber.

What must you do first?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. Send in the most experienced worker to have a look
  2. B. Lower a lit match to test the air
  3. C. Ask the emergency services to wait outside while work is done
  4. D. Check if the work can be done without entering
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D

  • A. Wrong: Wrong. Even experienced workers can be overcome by gas. Avoid entry if you can.
  • B. Wrong: Wrong. That could cause an explosion. Use a proper gas monitor.
  • C. Wrong: Wrong. Plan your own rescue arrangements. Don't rely on the emergency services.
  • D. Right: Right. HSE says wherever possible, avoid carrying out tasks in confined spaces.

Explanation

Avoid confined space entry if the job can be done another way. If entry is needed, use a safe system of work.

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Question 2

Medium ·Link to this question (question 2)

Tests show the oxygen level is low inside a tank your team must enter.

What does HSE say?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. Provide breathing apparatus or ventilate the space before entry
  2. B. Go in quickly, as low oxygen takes hours to harm you
  3. C. Use a dust mask
  4. D. Only enter if the worker feels fine
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A

  • A. Right: Right. HSE says if there is not enough oxygen, provide breathing apparatus or ventilate the space before anyone enters.
  • B. Wrong: Wrong. Low oxygen can make you collapse within moments.
  • C. Wrong: Wrong. A dust mask doesn't supply oxygen.
  • D. Wrong: Wrong. You can't sense low oxygen until it is too late.

Explanation

If a confined space lacks oxygen, ventilate it or provide breathing apparatus before entry.

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Question 3

Medium ·Link to this question (question 3)

Liquids could flow into a chamber while people are working inside.

What does HSE say to check?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. Nothing, as any water will drain away through the floor of the chamber
  2. B. That workers can swim
  3. C. That the chamber has a ladder
  4. D. That valves can be locked shut
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D

  • A. Wrong: Wrong. Flooding can drown workers in a confined space.
  • B. Wrong: Wrong. Prevent flooding instead.
  • C. Wrong: Wrong. A ladder helps exit, but stopping liquids getting in comes first.
  • D. Right: Right. HSE says check that valves can be locked shut where liquids or gases could flood in.

Explanation

Isolate confined spaces from liquids and gases, for example by locking valves shut.

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Question 4

Medium ·Link to this question (question 4)

You are choosing a worker to enter a confined space.

What must be true of them?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. They are trained, including in rescue kit
  2. B. They are the smallest person on site
  3. C. They have done it once before without problems
  4. D. They volunteer for it
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A

  • A. Right: Right. HSE says the person doing the work must be capable and trained in both the work and the use of any emergency equipment.
  • B. Wrong: Wrong. Size alone doesn't make someone competent.
  • C. Wrong: Wrong. They need proper training.
  • D. Wrong: Wrong. Volunteering isn't the same as being trained.

Explanation

Confined space workers must be trained in the work and in using the emergency equipment.

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