HS&E Operatives practice question: Risk assessments and method statements (3 of 7)
A. Working environment A free question from our original HS&E Operatives practice exam. Try it, then open the answer to see why each option is right or wrong.
You are about to fix cladding panels to a wall. The method statement says you will work from a MEWP, a machine with a platform that lifts you up. The MEWP has not arrived, and a colleague suggests using a ladder instead.
What should you do?
Choose one answer.
AA. Wait for the MEWP and start later, without telling anyone
BB. Stop and tell your supervisor, so the job can be planned again
CC. Use the ladder, but only for the shorter parts of the job
DD. Use the ladder, as long as someone holds the bottom of it
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: B
A. Wrong: Wrong. Not using the ladder is right, but your supervisor needs to know the plan can't be followed. Tell them, so the delay and any new risks can be managed.
B. Right: Right. The method statement sets out a safe way to do the job, based on the risk assessment. If you can't follow it, the work must be planned again by someone with the authority to do so.
C. Wrong: Wrong. A ladder may sometimes be suitable for short, simple work, but that decision is part of planning the job. It is not something to change on the spot.
D. Wrong: Wrong. Footing a ladder does not make it the right equipment for the job. The plan was made for a MEWP, and the risks of a ladder have not been assessed.
Explanation
Follow the method statement. If the job can't be done the way it says, stop and tell your supervisor. Don't make up a new way of working on the spot.