Exams / HS&E DEM / Structural stability and temporary support / Question 5
HS&E DEM practice question: Structural stability and temporary support (5 of 6) E. Specialist: Demolition A free question from our original HS&E DEM practice exam. Try it, then open the answer to see why each option is right or wrong.
Last verified October 2026 against HSE guidance and the law ·How we write our questions
Part of a building is known to be weak, but nobody is sure whether it needs propping.
Who should decide?
Choose one answer.
A A. Nobody, as weak areas can be leftB B. A qualified, experienced engineerC C. The machine driver, from the cabD D. Whoever is nearest the weak areaShow the answer and explanation Answer: B
A. Wrong: Wrong. A weak structure can collapse.B. Right: Right. HSE says a suitably qualified and experienced engineer should decide if temporary support is necessary.C. Wrong: Wrong. This needs an engineer's judgement.D. Wrong: Wrong. It needs an engineer.Explanation Where a structure may be weak, an experienced engineer decides whether temporary support is needed.
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