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Working from MEWPs questions for the Ductwork (DUCT) specialist test

5 free questions on Working from MEWPs, from section E. Specialist: HVACR – ductwork. Every question is original and explains why each option is right or wrong.

Last verified against HSE guidance and the law ·How we write our questions

You will use a scissor lift to hang ductwork.

What training does HSE say MEWP operators should have?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. A car driving licence is enough
  2. B. A recognised operator course
  3. C. None, as scissor lifts are simple to drive
  4. D. Watching someone else use it for a few minutes first
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B

  • A. Wrong: Wrong. Operators need MEWP training.
  • B. Right: Right. HSE says MEWP operators should have attended a recognised operator training course, and be familiarised with the make and model they use.
  • C. Wrong: Wrong. Operators need recognised training.
  • D. Wrong: Wrong. Operators need recognised training.

Explanation

MEWP operators need recognised training and familiarisation on the machine they use.

Study

You are setting up a MEWP in a building with service trenches and manhole covers in the floor.

What does HSE say about ground conditions?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. Park it over the manhole for stability
  2. B. Ground conditions don't matter indoors
  3. C. Use it on firm, level ground, clear of covers
  4. D. Any ground is fine if the outriggers are out
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C

  • A. Wrong: Wrong. Manholes can give way.
  • B. Wrong: Wrong. Floors can hide trenches and covers.
  • C. Right: Right. HSE says use the platform on firm and level ground. Hidden trenches and manholes can cause it to overturn.
  • D. Wrong: Wrong. The ground must be firm and level.

Explanation

Use MEWPs on firm, level ground, and watch for hidden trenches and manholes.

Study

You are raising a MEWP basket close to the ductwork at ceiling level.

What danger does HSE warn about?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. The basket getting cold near the roof
  2. B. The ductwork rusting from the MEWP's engine exhaust
  3. C. The MEWP running out of paint
  4. D. Being trapped against a structure
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D

  • A. Wrong: Wrong. The danger is being trapped and crushed.
  • B. Wrong: Wrong. The danger is being trapped and crushed.
  • C. Wrong: Wrong. The danger is being trapped and crushed.
  • D. Right: Right. HSE says operators can be trapped between part of the basket and a fixed structure. Shrouded controls can reduce the risk.

Explanation

Watch for entrapment: being crushed between the basket and overhead structures.

Study

You are working from a boom MEWP where a fall from the basket is still possible.

What does HSE say to use?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. A harness and short lanyard
  2. B. A long rope tied to the ductwork
  3. C. Nothing, as the guard rails are enough
  4. D. A long lanyard clipped to the ceiling grid above
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A

  • A. Right: Right. HSE says use a harness with a short lanyard attached to a suitable manufacturer-provided anchorage point within the basket.
  • B. Wrong: Wrong. Clip to the basket's anchorage point.
  • C. Wrong: Wrong. Where falls are still possible, use a short lanyard.
  • D. Wrong: Wrong. Clip to the basket's anchorage point.

Explanation

In a boom MEWP, clip a short lanyard to the manufacturer's anchor point inside the basket.

Study

Your gang uses MEWPs every day.

What does HSE say about rescue?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. The operator can climb down the boom
  2. B. Have a rescue plan and practise it regularly
  3. C. Call the fire brigade if the MEWP gets stuck
  4. D. Rescue isn't needed, as MEWPs don't break down
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B

  • A. Wrong: Wrong. Have a planned, practised rescue.
  • B. Right: Right. HSE says have a plan for rescuing someone from a MEWP and practise it. Someone on the ground should know the ground controls.
  • C. Wrong: Wrong. Have your own plan, and practise it.
  • D. Wrong: Wrong. Have a rescue plan.

Explanation

Have a practised MEWP rescue plan, with someone on the ground who knows the ground controls.

Study

Study Working from MEWPs

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