8.2 Working at height

Written by Imran Qureshi (NEBOSH)

NEBOSH IGC · Workplace hazards · 15 questions

Name: ____________________ Date: ____________

The first approach in the working at height hierarchy is to:
- A Use a harness
- B Use a safety net
- C Rely on training
- D Avoid working at height
An example of preventing a fall is:
- A An airbag
- B Warning signs only
- C A scaffold with guardrails
- D A safety net near the ground
Which minimises the consequences of a fall?
- A Safety nets
- B Scaffold boards
- C Ladders
- D Warning tapes
Which of these increases the risk of a fall from height?
- A A guarded platform
- B A short ladder in good condition
- C A solid floor
- D A fragile roof
Working at height should first be:
- A Avoided where possible
- B Left without supervision
- C Done with harnesses only
- D Planned as a routine
An example of avoiding working at height is:
- A Using an extendable tool from the ground
- B Using an airbag
- C Using a net
- D Using a harness
A mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) is an example of equipment that:
- A Prevents a fall when used properly
- B Is not useful
- C Minimises a fall only
- D Avoids height completely
Which of these minimises the distance of a fall?
- A A safety net close to the working level
- B A solid roof
- C A ground tool
- D A guardrail
Work restraint systems:
- A Catch a falling worker
- B Remove the need for training
- C Stop a worker reaching a fall edge
- D Increase the fall distance
A personal fall arrest system:
- A Prevents any fall
- B Replaces a net
- C Limits the consequences of a fall
- D Needs no training
Which is a main precaution for work at height?
- A No rescue plan
- B Planning and supervision
- C Using damaged ladders
- D Working in storms
The weather is a risk because:
- A It lowers insurance
- B It improves access
- C It is always dry
- D Wind and rain can make surfaces slippery and unstable
Falling materials are controlled by:
- A Safe stacking and storage
- B Leaving them at the edge
- C Throwing them from height
- D Using fragile tools
For ladders, a general precaution is:
- A Using them on slippery ground
- B Using them damaged
- C Correct selection, inspection and stability
- D Using them without training
An existing safe workplace such as a solid roof with guardrails is an example of:
- A Preventing a fall
- B Minimising a fall
- C Avoiding height
- D Ignoring the risk

Answer key

1. D, 2. C, 3. A, 4. D, 5. A, 6. A, 7. A, 8. A, 9. C, 10. C, 11. B, 12. D, 13. A, 14. C, 15. A

Avoid, then prevent, then minimise.
Guardrails prevent a fall.
Nets and airbags reduce harm if a fall occurs.
Fragile surfaces, unprotected edges and weather increase risk.
Avoid, prevent, minimise.
Assemble parts at ground level where possible.
It is suitable equipment for working at height.
Nets and airbags are used when a fall cannot be prevented.
They prevent a fall.
It is used when a fall cannot be prevented.
Emergency rescue arrangements are also needed.
Avoid working at height in bad weather.
Prevent objects from falling.
Competence and inspection apply.
It is permanent protection.