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Structural stability and temporary support questions for the Demolition (DEM) specialist test

6 free questions on Structural stability and temporary support, from section E. Specialist: Demolition. 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 the order in which parts of a structure will be removed.

What does HSE say the sequence must do?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. Leave the order to each worker
  2. B. Rule out any uncontrolled collapse
  3. C. Remove the main supports first, to save time
  4. D. Start wherever is easiest for the machine
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B

  • A. Wrong: Wrong. The sequence is planned and written down.
  • B. Right: Right. HSE says use a sequence that eliminates the possibility of an uncontrolled collapse, removing non-critical elements first.
  • C. Wrong: Wrong. Removing supports early can cause collapse.
  • D. Wrong: Wrong. The sequence must keep the structure stable.

Explanation

Plan the sequence so there is no uncontrolled collapse, removing non-critical parts first.

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Question 2

Medium ·Link to this question (question 2)

A scaffold has been put up next to a wall that is being demolished.

Can the scaffold be used to hold the wall up?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. Yes, if you add extra ties to the wall
  2. B. Yes, but only for a few hours while the wall is propped
  3. C. Only if it is designed as a support
  4. D. Yes, any scaffold can hold up a wall
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C

  • A. Wrong: Wrong. Ties to an unstable wall could pull the scaffold down.
  • B. Wrong: Wrong. It must be designed as a support.
  • C. Right: Right. HSE says scaffolding must not be used to support structures unless it is specifically designed as a support.
  • D. Wrong: Wrong. A standard scaffold isn't designed for those loads and could collapse.

Explanation

Never use a scaffold to support a structure unless it has been designed to do that.

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Question 3

Medium ·Link to this question (question 3)

Temporary props are needed while an opening is formed in a load-bearing wall.

Who should design them?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. Whoever has spare props in their van
  2. B. The labourer who will fit them
  3. C. Nobody, as one prop per metre is always enough
  4. D. Experienced temporary works designers
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D

  • A. Wrong: Wrong. Props must be designed for the loads.
  • B. Wrong: Wrong. The design needs temporary works experience.
  • C. Wrong: Wrong. There is no rule of thumb; they must be designed.
  • D. Right: Right. HSE says all bracing and propping should be designed by experienced temporary works designers.

Explanation

Temporary bracing and propping must be designed by experienced temporary works designers.

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Question 4

Medium ·Link to this question (question 4)

Props have been designed for a partly demolished building.

How must they be installed and removed?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. In line with the designer's specification
  2. B. However the gang thinks best on the day
  3. C. Removed as soon as they get in the way
  4. D. Left in place for good, so nothing can move
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A

  • A. Right: Right. HSE says temporary support must be installed, checked, inspected, maintained and dismantled in accordance with the designer's specification.
  • B. Wrong: Wrong. They must follow the design.
  • C. Wrong: Wrong. Removing props early can cause collapse.
  • D. Wrong: Wrong. They are removed in a controlled way, to the design.

Explanation

Install, check, maintain and remove temporary supports exactly as the designer specifies.

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Question 5

Harder ·Link to this question (question 5)

Part of a building is known to be weak, but nobody is sure whether it needs propping.

Who should decide?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. Nobody, as weak areas can be left
  2. B. A qualified, experienced engineer
  3. C. The machine driver, from the cab
  4. D. Whoever is nearest the weak area
Show 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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Question 6

Medium ·Link to this question (question 6)

A facade is to be kept while the building behind it is demolished.

What does HSE say about the facade retention?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. It needs no support once the back walls are gone
  2. B. It is the neighbours' problem
  3. C. It must be designed by a competent person
  4. D. It can be held up with a few timber props
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C

  • A. Wrong: Wrong. Without the building behind it, the facade can fall.
  • B. Wrong: Wrong. The contractor must make it safe.
  • C. Right: Right. HSE says facade retention must be designed by a competent person.
  • D. Wrong: Wrong. It needs a proper design.

Explanation

Facade retention must be designed by a competent person, and installed and maintained to that design.

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