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Hazardous substances (COSHH) questions for the CSCS MAP test

4 free questions on Hazardous substances (COSHH), from section B. Occupational health, wellbeing and welfare. 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 writing a COSHH assessment for a new resin your team will use.

Where should you start?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. Buy the most expensive gloves and masks you can find
  2. B. Ask the workers whether they have used it before
  3. C. Assume it is safe if it is sold in shops
  4. D. Identify the hazards, using the safety data sheet
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D

  • A. Wrong: Wrong. PPE is a last resort, and it must suit the substance.
  • B. Wrong: Wrong. Experience helps, but you need to know the hazards first.
  • C. Wrong: Wrong. Many products sold to the public are still hazardous.
  • D. Right: Right. HSE says a COSHH assessment starts by identifying the hazardous substances and their hazards. The safety data sheet is a key source.

Explanation

Start a COSHH assessment by finding out the hazards, using the label and safety data sheet. Then decide who could be harmed and how to control it.

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Question 2

Medium ·Link to this question (question 2)

A solvent-based coating can be swapped for a water-based one that does the same job.

What does good COSHH practice say?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. Substitute the less hazardous product
  2. B. Keep the solvent one, and give workers masks
  3. C. It makes no difference which is used, as long as workers are trained
  4. D. Use both, to get the job done faster
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A

  • A. Right: Right. Under good control practice, eliminating or substituting a hazardous substance comes before controls like extraction and PPE.
  • B. Wrong: Wrong. PPE comes last. If a safer product will do, use it.
  • C. Wrong: Wrong. Training helps, but removing the hazard is better.
  • D. Wrong: Wrong. That keeps the hazard. Substitute where you can.

Explanation

If a less hazardous substance will do the job, use it. Substitution comes before extraction and PPE.

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Question 3

Medium ·Link to this question (question 3)

A worker asks why they need to wash before their tea break after using an epoxy resin.

What is the best answer?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. It is only for appearance
  2. B. Resins can't harm you once dry
  3. C. Only so the canteen stays clean
  4. D. So the resin isn't swallowed
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D

  • A. Wrong: Wrong. Washing protects health.
  • B. Wrong: Wrong. Some resins can cause skin and breathing problems.
  • C. Wrong: Wrong. The main reason is health.
  • D. Right: Right. Washing before eating or drinking stops hazardous substances being swallowed or spreading on the skin.

Explanation

Good welfare is part of COSHH control: wash hands before eating, drinking or smoking.

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Question 4

Medium ·Link to this question (question 4)

Your team has controls in place for a hazardous substance.

What must you do with your COSHH assessment?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. Review it regularly
  2. B. Never change it once it is written
  3. C. Throw it away once controls are in place
  4. D. Only review it after someone becomes ill
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A

  • A. Right: Right. HSE says review your COSHH assessment, and update it if anything changes, such as new substances or methods.
  • B. Wrong: Wrong. It must stay up to date.
  • C. Wrong: Wrong. Keep it and review it.
  • D. Wrong: Wrong. Review it regularly to prevent illness.

Explanation

Review COSHH assessments regularly, and when work, substances or controls change.

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