Nebosh Flash Cards PDF

NEBOSH International Certificate in
Occupational H&S
Question and Answers
IGC 1
From Dec 2005 to Feb 2014

Command words March 2013
• Identify
• Give
• Outline
• Describe
• Explain
Command words no longer used
• List
• Sketch
Identify
• To give reference to an item, which could be
its name or title
• Normally a word or phrase will be sufficient,
provided the reference is clear
Identify FOUR hazards associated with
excavations (4)
1. Collapse of the sides

2. Water ingress
3. Falling materials
4. Underground services
Give
• To offer for consideration, acceptance, or use
of another
• Give an example of
• Give the meaning of
Identify FOUR types of safety sign AND give an
example in EACH case (4)
1. Prohibition signs, for example No Smoking
2. Warning signs, for example Caution Hot
Surface
3. Mandatory signs, for example Wear Ear
Protection
4. Emergency or safe condition signs, for
example First Aid Box
Outline
• To indicate the principal features or different
parts of
• An exhaustive description is not required
• What is sought is a brief summary of the
major aspects of whatever is stated in the
question
Outline FOUR hazards associated
with excavations (4)
1. Collapse of the sides caused by unsupported trench
sides or incorrect angle of the sides
2. Water ingress caused by heavy rain or burst water
main
3. Falling materials from spoil dug from excavation or
materials & tools stored at ground level could fall in
4. Underground services such as contact with or
rupturing of electrical, gas or water utilities
Describe
• To give a detailed written account of the distinctive
features of a subject
• The account should be factual, without any attempt
to explain
• When describing a subject (or object) a test of
sufficient detail would be able to visualise what you
are describing
Describe the mechanical hazards
associated with a bench grinder (4)
1. An entanglement hazard would be associated with the
rotating spindle that the abrasive wheel is mounted on
2. Drawing in and trapping is associated with the gap between

the tool rest and the rotating abrasive wheel
3. Friction or abrasion hazards would be associated with the

surface of the rotating abrasive wheel
4. Stabbing or puncture hazards could be created by flying

fragments or pieces of ejected broken wheel
Explain
• To provide an understanding
• To make an idea or relationship clear
• This command word is testing the candidate’s
ability to know or understand why or how
something happens
• Is often associated with the words how or why
Explain how sensitive protective equipment (trip
device) can reduce the risk of contact with
moving parts of machinery (4)
1. Sensitive protective equipment is designed to
identify the presence of a person or body part
within the danger zone of machinery.
2. Examples of such devices include pressure mats and

light beams
3. These are connected to the machine controls
4. These would stop the machine rapidly should a

person or body part be detected
Marking & Annotation of Scripts
• Examiners’ Comments
• Structure answers
• Numbers
• Do not cross out any answers
• Use margins & top of paper or at end of book for notes
• Ensure question is on correct page
Awarding marks
• No –ve marking
• No deduction for poor grammar or spelling
• Cross marked between parts of a question
• No half marks
• Standard abbreviations are acceptable
• Marking Scheme
Contents
• Element 1 H&S Foundations
• Element 2 H&S Management Systems - Policy
• Element 3 H&S Management Systems – Organising
• Element 4 H&S Management Systems – Planning
• Element 5 H&S Management Systems – Measuring, Audit &

Review
Structure of the
Questions and Answers
No of times & the date the question

has appeared on the exam
Exam question
Exam Answer
Chapter 1 Foundations in H&S
1.1 The scope & nature of OH&S
1.2 The moral, social & economic reasons for
maintaining & promoting good standards
of H&S in the workplace
1.3 The role of national governments &
international bodies in formulating a
framework for the regulation of H&S
Oct 2013 Q3
(1)
(a) Identify reasons why an organisation
should maintain / improve its health &
safety performance (5)
(b) Outline potential barriers to achieving
good standards of H&S (3)
"The answer" (a) (5)
MORAL
1. The need to provide a reasonable standard of care & to reduce the
injuries & ill-health
LEGAL
1. The desire to avoid enforcement action from the criminal / civil branch of
law
ECONOMIC
1. A more motivated workforce resulting in increased production rates

2. The avoidance of direct costs associated with accidents
3. Reduction in first-aid costs
(b) (3)
1. An economic downturn within the country in
general, which may lead to de regulation or
less enforcement of H&S
2. Financial restrictions such as loss of profits &
the resulting conflict between keeping up
production demands at the expense of H&S
standards
3. A lack of senior management commitment
towards H&S in general, resulting in a
reduction of the overall H&S culture
Dec 2012 Q6, Jun 2013 Q9, Feb 2014 Q7 (3)
Identify the possible costs to an organisation

following an accident in the workplace (8)
"The answer"
1. Loss of reputation leading to loss of customers
2. First aid & medical time
3. Time spent investigating the accident
4. Payment of overtime to cover the injured worker duty
hours.
5. Lack of morale of workforce leading to loss of
production
6. Fines & prosecutions by enforcing authorities
7. Training for the replacement worker
8. Increase in insurance premiums for employers liability
Mar 2012 Q9, Jun 2013 Q3
(2)
A serious accident has occurred to a worker & there will
be costs to the organisation as a result
(a) (i) Identify THREE costs which are likely
to be insured (3)
(ii) Identify THREE costs which are likely
to be uninsured (3)
(b) Outline why it is important that an organisation
maintains its employers’ liability insurance (2)
"The answer" (a)(i) (3)
1. Compensation to the injured worker
2. Medical & civil legal costs
3. Costs arising from damage to plant, buildings,
tools & equipment
(ii) (3)
1. Time involved in the investigation of the

accident
2. Production delays or lost production &
damage to materials & product
3. Loss of expertise or experience
(b) (2)
1. It is a legal requirement & / or that of a

contract, client or customer to have this
insurance in place
2. It covers any compensation & civil legal costs
that may be awarded against the organisation
following an accident
Mar 2011 Q3, Oct 2013 Q11, Feb 2014
Q3
(3)
An organisation has had an increase in the
number of manual handling accidents &
associated ill heath. Identify sources of
information that may be available to help reduce
the risks to workers (8)
"The answer" INTERNAL / EXTERNAL
EXTERNAL
1. International agencies such as the International Labour Organisation ILO

2. National enforcement agencies such as the Health & Safety Executive HSE in the UK
3. Employers organisations & Trade Unions
4. National & international standards making bodies such as International Standards Organisations
ISO
5. Information from manufacturers & also from other associations carrying out work of a similar
nature
6. Professional H&S bodies such as the Institute of Occupational Safety & Health IOSH in the UK
INTERNAL
1. Occupational health services

2. Risk assessments & accident & ill-health statistics analysis
3. Accidents investigation reports
4. Manufacture instructions for safe using the equipment or tools.
5. Inspections reports that highlighted this issues.
6. Safety audit that show the deficiency of manual handling practice
Dec 2012 Q7
(1)
Give the meaning of the following different types of
incident AND identify a relevant example for EACH
(a) Injury (2)
(b) Ill-health (2)
(c) Dangerous Occurrence (2)
(d) Damage only (2)
"The answer"
(a)
1. Harm / injury to a person which can vary from a minor injury, to serious
2. Such as a broken leg resulting from a slip, trip or fall in the workplace
(b)
1. A physical ailment of the body or mental psychological disorder
2. Such as dermatitis of the skin caused by exposure to a solvent
(c)
1. A near-miss which had the potential to cause serious harm or loss
2. Such as the overturning of a tower crane
(d)
1. Loss to equipment or plant but not to a person
2. For example, collapsed racking in a warehouse after being hit by a FLT
Nov 2012 Q7, Mar 2011 Q10, Mar 2013
Q7, Sep 2013 Q2
(4)
Give the meaning of the following terms
(a) Health (2)
(b) Safety (2)
(c) Welfare (2)
(d) Environmental protection (2)
"The answer"
(a)
1. A state of well being both mentally & physical
2. Free from illness or diseases
(b)
1. Workplace free from hazards & risks
2. E.g. no trailing cables
(c)
1. Meeting the basic needs of employees
2. To ensure low levels of stress, e.g. provision of pure drinking water
(d)
1. Protecting the environment in which the workplace operates
2. E.g. The land, air & water
Oct 2010 Q5 & Apr 2011 Q5, Mar 2010 Q10,
Dec 2011 Q11
(4)
An organisation has found to have inadequate

standards of workplace H&S
Identify the costs that the organisation may incur
as a result (8)
"The answer"
1. Low morale leading to low production

2. High staff absences also due to low morale
3. Damaged plant & equipment, product costs due to poor working
practices
4. Fines & uninsured costs arising from legal action, criminal or civil
5. Including legal costs & compensation claims
6. The investigation of accidents & the preparation of the necessary
reports
7. The temporary replacement or re-training of staff after accidents
8. The possible loss of goodwill or business image through poor quality
of product
Dec 2005, May, Aug 2006 Q5, Nov 2005
Q7, Nov 2006 Q5, Mar 2007 Q5, Nov 2007
Q5, Dec 2007 Q5, Sep 2010 Q11, Nov 2012
Q2, Sept 2011 Q7, 7 Mar 2013 Q2
(11)
The number of absences due to upper limb
disorders (ULDs) in an organization appears to be
increasing
Outline the possible sources of information that
could be consulted when investigating the problem
(8)
INTERNAL
1. Risk assessments can help to identify these problems, as they would have been used to
assess the likelihood & severity of tasks which might produce such symptoms
2. The results of task/job safety analyses & the identification of repetitive actions &
observations of the workforce to look for poor postures, etc.
3. The organization's employees & safety representatives who may liaise with their fellow
workers on such complaints, effects, etc.
4. Ill-health reports & the analysis of absence records which may indicate an increase in
people suffering from these illnesses
5. The observation of supervisors & the complaints that may have been made to them by
members of their teams
6. Information supplied by the social activities co-ordinator on out-of-work activities such
as tennis, squash, etc.
EXTERNAL
1. Manufacturers’ information which might highlight particular problems if their
instructions are not followed
2. Ergonomists or occupational health practitioners who have competent knowledge &
experience of the subject
Q5, Jun 2013 Q10
(2)
Outline ways in which an organisation could
encourage workers to be involved in setting &
maintaining high standards of H&S (8)
"The answer"
1. The preparation of a H&S policy backed up by an obvious display of management
commitment to the observance of laid down standards while demonstrating
leadership by example
2. The introduction of formal consultation, which can be included on tool box talks /
team briefings
3. The employment of competent personnel backed up by the provision of any
additional training that may be required
4. The provision of a good working environment & the provision of adequate welfare
facilities
5. Involving workers in risk assessments, accident investigations & the development
of safe systems of work
6. Ensuring action is taken quickly to rectify any non-compliance with standard
procedures & disciplinary measures taken when required
7. Introducing an effective two-way communication system between management &
the workforce
8. Introducing a system of incentives & rewards to recognise achievement in H&S
behaviours
Mar 2012 Q2
(1)
Identify ways in which organisations can
positively influence the H&S behaviours of their
workers (8)
"The answer"
1. The preparation of a H&S policy
2. The introduction of formal consultation with the workforce
3. The employment of competent personnel
4. The provision of a good working environment & welfare facilities
5. Involving workers in risk assessments, accident investigations
6. Ensuring action is taken quickly to rectify any non-compliances
7. Introducing an effective two-way communication system
8. Introducing a system of incentives & rewards in H&S behaviours
Nov 2006 Q11
(1)
List the practical means by which a manager

could involve workers in the improvement of
health & safety in the workplace (8)
"The answer"
1. Involving employees in producing risk assessments
2. Involving employees in accident investigations
3. Encouraging involvement in hazard-spotting
4. Setting up suggestion schemes for employees
5. Consulting employees on organising training courses
6. Supporting active involvement in safety committee
meetings
7. Managers & supervisors being accompanied by
employees on safety inspections
8. Giving experienced employees responsibilities young
workers
Mar 2006 Q7, Nov 2006 Q7, Jun 2007
Q7
(3)
Outline the practical control measures by which
a manager could involve employees in the
improvement of health & safety in the
workplace (8)
"The answer"
1. Involving employees in risk assessments to increase their awareness of hazards &
the risks from them in the workplace
2. Involving employees in accident investigations & the development of safe systems
& procedures
3. Having a no blame culture & encouraging involvement in hazard-spotting & the
reporting of defects, with management giving feedback on corrective actions &
outcomes
4. Setting up suggestion schemes to encourage employees participation in health &
safety
5. Consulting employees on organising training courses & information programmes
on H&S
6. Supporting active involvement in safety committee meeting of employees to
represent their fellow workers
7. Managers & supervisors being accompanied by employees or their
representatives on safety tours & inspections
8. Giving more experienced mature employees responsibilities for mentoring young
& inexperienced workers
Mar 2007 Q2, May 2008 Q10, Jul 2008
Q10, Dec 2008 Q7, Apr 2009 Q9, Sep
2010 Q3, Nov 2012 Q10, Jan 2013 Sept
2011 Q3, Mar 2013 Q10, May 2013
Q5,Sep 2013
(12)
Outline reasons for maintaining good standards of
health & safety within an organisation (8)
“The answer” MORAL / LEGAL / (FINANCIAL, ECONOMIC, COST)
MORAL
1. The need to provide a reasonable standard of care & to reduce the injuries, pain &
suffering caused to employees by accidents & ill-health
LEGAL
1. The desire to avoid enforcement action from the criminal branch of law & civil law
claims for compensation by employees
ECONOMIC / FINANCIAL/ COST
1. A more motivated workforce resulting in increased production rates
2. The avoidance of direct costs associated with accidents (e.g. downtime,
administrative, investigation
3. Reduction in first-aid costs, repair of plant & equipment, employing & training of
staff, etc)
4. Possibly cheaper insurance premiums through reduced civil claims
5. The avoidance of costs associated with legal action from enforcing authorities
6. Maintaining the image & reputation of the organization with its various
stakeholders
Chapter 2 H&SMS 1 - Policy
2.1 The key elements of a H&S policy
management system
2.2 The purpose & importance
2.3 The key features & appropriate
content of an effective H&S policy
Nov 2013 Q6
(1)
(a) Identify a range of health and safety targets
that may be included in the statement of intent
section of a health and safety policy
(4)
(b) Describe the purpose of
(i) The organisation section of a health
and safety policy (2)
(ii) The arrangements section of a health
and safety policy (2)
1. A reduction in the number of accidents from manual
handling over the next 6 months
2. An increase of 50% 0f confined apace training for all
contractors in the next 3 months
3. An improvement in the pass rate for induction
training by at least 20% ongoing
4. To increase the number of workers attending the
health and safety committee meeting by 5%
(b) (i) (2)
1. The organisation section identifies the H&S
roles / responsibilities & channels of
communication within the organisation
2. Including competent employees, consultation
with employees to gain their commitment &
cooperation, with good controls & clear
written procedures by management
(ii) (2)
1. The arrangements section deals the practical
means for achieving the objectives laid down
in the policy statement
2. For example procedures for the control of
contractors to ensure they work safely
Sep 2013 Q1
(1)
(a) Outline the purpose of an organisation’s
health & safety policy (6)
(b) Outline the typical content of the H&S
arrangements section of a H&S policy (8)
(c) Outline circumstances that would require
a H&S policy to be reviewed (6)
1. This is a legal requirement for an organisation, who must bring this policy
to the attention of all the workforce & revise it as often as is necessary
2. This is the overall business plan for H&S for an organisation, set by senior
management including consultation with key people within the
organisation
3. This shows from the start the commitment showed towards H&S by top
management
4. As part of the policy there will be a policy statement signed by the CE
briefly stating the aims & objectives of the policy
5. There will be SMART objectives & targets set within the policy to ensure
legal compliance & overall continual improvement in the H&S system
within the organisation
6. The policy will follow the format of & H&S management system based
upon policy, organisation, planning & implementation, monitoring, audit
& review
(b) (8)
• See later questions
(c) (6)
• See later questions
Sep 2013 Q19
(1)
(a) Setting policy is a key element of a H&S
management system. Identify other key elements
of a H&S management system (4)
(b) Identify sources of guidance on the preparation
& implementation of H&S management systems
(4)
(c) Outline why it is important that manager’s
responsibilities are made clear in a H&S policy (8)
(d) Identify circumstances that may require a review
of the H&S policy (4)
POPMAR
ORGANISING
1. This is followed by organizing for safety by controlling & allocating responsibilities
PLANNING & IMPLEMENTING
1. The next stage involves planning & implementing, where practical plans are
developed to meet the objectives
MONITORING & AUDIT
1. Proactive (inspections) & reactive (accident investigations) monitoring systems

should be introduced
REVIEW
1. The review would be reinforced by an independent & structured audit of all parts
of the system
(b) (4)
1. The HSE publication /management system HSG(65)

from the UK
2. The ILO management system
3. OHSAS 18001
4. ISO standards such as 9000 (quality) 14001
(environmental)
(c) (8)
1. It is a requirement of legislation that senior management produce such a policy & bring it
to the attention of all interested parties
2. It shows the workforce that there is senior management commitment for H&S
3. It is management who have far more responsibilities & accountabilities for H&S & these
need to be clear to both management & the workforce
4. It will enable good channels of communication between managers & the workforce, which
will include consultation
5. So that all persons both managers & the workforce within the organisation will be aware
of the contribution they have to make
6. Recognition that H&S is a core function of every job & must be given appropriate priority
7. It will help in setting improvements in the safety culture of the organisation in general
8. Managers & workers will take on more accountability for their actions as a result of
knowing their organisational responsibilities
(d)
1. After significant changes in work processes or the

introduction of new equipment or materials being
used
2. After the introduction of new legislation which is
applicable to the organisation
3. After significant alterations to work patterns, for
example the introduction of shift work
4. When risk assessments are reviewed which show a
need for policy changes
Dec 2005 Q7, May 2006 Q7, Mar 2007 Q7, Jun Q4,
Nov 2007 Q7, Dec 2007 Q7, May 2008 Q4, Jul 2008
Q4, Nov 2008 Q7, Dec 2008 Q6, Apr 2009 Q4, June
2012 Q9
(13)
Outline the main components of a health & safety

management system (8)
"The answer" POPIMAR
POLICY
1. This is a business plan for health & safety which states
management’s intention & commitment to health & safety
& sets clear aims objectives & targets
2. This will include a policy statement signed by the Chief
Executive to give it authority & motivate the staff
ORGANISING
1. This is followed by organizing for safety by controlling &
allocating responsibilities & establishing effective
communication channels & consultation to gain
commitment & cooperation at all levels within the
workplace.
Continue
PLANNING & IMPLEMENTING
1. The next stage involves planning & implementing, where practical plans
are developed to meet the objectives & effective control measures
introduced based on risk assessment
2. This will include training to ensure competence of employees
MONITORING & AUDIT

1. Proactive (inspections) & reactive (accident investigations) monitoring
systems should be introduced to measure performance in health & safety
& a system of review established
2. To evaluate the performance against the objectives & targets, to consider
options for improvement & to reset targets
REVIEW
1. The review would be reinforced by an independent & structured audit of
all parts of the system, which would assess compliance with health &
safety management procedures & identify where existing standards are
inadequate or deficient
Aug, Nov 2006 Q8, Mar 2007 Q3, Sep 2010 Q9, Oct
2010 Q2, Apr 2011 Q2, Oct 2012, Nov 2012 Q5, Mar
2013 Q5
(9)
(a) Explain why it is important for an organisation to

set targets in terms of its health & safety
performance (2)
(b) Outline SIX types of target that an organisation
might typically set in relation to health & safety
(6)
1. It gives evidence of senior management

commitment & helps in motivating staff by
providing them with something tangible to aim
for
2. Also, the important part they can play in
facilitating the measurement & review of
performance & continual improvement
(b) (6)
1. A reduction of injuries caused by manual handling activities by 10% over

the next 12 months
2. Improved audit scores by improving the competence of audit teams by
sending them on external accredited courses
3. A reduction in the number of civil claims & defending claims where the
organization feels is has done all that is practicable
4. An increase in the reporting of near miss incidents or minor accidents by
10% in the next reporting period
5. An increase in the number of employees trained in H&S to IGC level
6. The achievement of a H&S Standard (e.g. Occupational Health & Safety
Assessment System OHSAS 1800)
Mar 2007 Q4, Sept 2011 Q9
(2)
Outline the key areas that should be addressed in

the arrangements section of a health & safety policy
statement (8)
"The answer"
PIMAR PLANNING / IMPLEMENTING / MONITORING/ AUDIT & REVIEW
1. Procedures for safe systems of work based upon the findings of risk assessments
2. H&S training for all levels of employees to ensure adequate levels of competence
3. Provision of Personal Protective Equipment PPE & instruction, training &
supervision on its use & storage of it
4. Specific types of hazard (e.g. machinery, hazardous substances, manual handling,
fire etc)
5. Control & monitoring of contractors including full exchange of information
6. Safety of visitors which may require full supervision/& or induction training before
coming on to site
7. Accident reporting & investigation procedures including who to report to & what
form to use
8. Monitoring & review of the above procedures both proactive & reactive methods
Nov 2005 Q1, Nov 2006 Q1, Oct 2012, Oct
2013 Q1
(4)
(a) Explain the purposes of the following sections of a health &
safety policy
(i) Statement of intent (2)
(ii) Organisation (2)
(iii) Arrangements (2)
(b) Outline the issues that are typically included in the

arrangements section of a health & safety policy (8)
(c) Describe the circumstances that would require a

health & safety policy to be reviewed (6)
(i)
1. A statement of intent demonstrates an organisation’s senior management
commitment to
2. It sets organisational objectives for H&S which will lead to continual improvement
of the system
(ii)
1. The organisation section identifies the H&S roles / responsibilities & channels of
communication within the organisation
2. Including competent employees, consultation with employees to gain their
commitment & cooperation, with good controls & clear written procedures by
management
(iii)
1. The arrangements section deals the practical means for achieving the objectives
laid down in the policy statement
2. For example procedures for the control of contractors to ensure they work safely
(b) (8)
PIMAR
PLAN /IMPLEMENT / MONITOR / AUDIT & REVIEW
1. Procedures for safe systems of work based upon risk assessments

2. H&S training for all levels of employees to ensure competence
3. Provision of PPE & instruction, training & supervision on its use
4. Specific types of hazard (e.g. machinery, hazardous substances,
manual handling, fire etc)
5. Control & monitoring of contractors including full exchange of
information
6. Safety of visitors which may require full supervision/& or induction
training before coming on to site
7. Accident reporting & investigation procedures including who to
report to & what form to use
8. Monitoring & review of the above procedures both proactive &
reactive methods
"The answer" (c) (6)
1. After significant changes in work processes or the introduction

of new equipment or materials being used
2. After the introduction of new legislation which is applicable to
the organisation
3. After significant alterations to work patterns, for example the
introduction of shift work
4. When risk assessments are reviewed which show a need for
policy changes
5. When considered necessary actions following an accident
investigation to improve safe systems of work
6. After a visit by the enforcement authority &
action/improvement has been advised as a result of
weaknesses in the H&S policy
Nov 2006 Q3, Jan 2013 Q6, Mar 2010 Q2, Mar
2012 Q3, May 2013 Q6
(5)
(a) Outline the purpose & general content of the
THREE main sections of a health & safety policy
document (6)
(b) Explain why the health & safety policy should
be signed by the most senior person in an
organisation, such as the Managing Director or
Chief Executive Officer (2)
STATEMENT OF INTENT
1. Demonstrates an organisation’s senior management commitment to H&S
2. It also sets organisational objectives for H&S which will lead to continual
improvement of the system
ORGANISATION
1. Identifies the H&S roles / responsibilities of all people in the organisation,
including an organisational chart
2. Also, channels of communication within the organisation, including competent
employees, consultation with employees to gain their commitment &
cooperation
ARRANGEMENTS
1. Deals the practical means for achieving the objectives laid down in the policy
statement
2. For example procedures to ensure the safe working / control of contractors
(b) (2)
1. It gives evidence of senior management commitment &

helps in motivating staff by providing them with
something tangible to aim for & the important part they
can play in facilitating the measurement & review of
performance & continual improvement
2. It also gives authorization & ownership of H&S by top

management
Dec 2005 Q3, May 2006 Q3, Nov 2006 Q9, Mar 2007
Q3, Jun 2007 Q9, Nov 2007 Q3, Dec 2007 Q3, May
2008 Q9, Jul 2008 Q9, Nov 2008 Q8, Dec 2008 Q4, Apr
2009 Q9
(12)
(a) Explain the purpose of the statement of intent

section of a health & safety policy (2)
(b) Outline the circumstances that would require a

health & safety policy to be reviewed (6)
“ The answer” (a) (2)
1. Demonstrates an organisation’s senior management

commitment to H&S to help motivate all the staff to improve
their H&S behaviour
2. It sets organisational SMART objectives / targets for H&S
which will lead to continual improvement of the H&S
management system
(b) (6)
1. After significant changes in work processes or the introduction of
new equipment or materials being used
2. After the introduction of new legislation which is applicable to the
organisation
3. After significant alterations to work patterns, for example the
introduction of shift work
4. When risk assessments are reviewed which show a need for policy
changes
5. When considered necessary actions following an accident
investigation to improve safe systems of work
6. After a visit by the enforcement authority & action/improvement
has been advised as a result of weaknesses in the H&S policy
Aug 2006 Q2, Dec 2011 Q2, Jun 2013
Q10
(3)
Outline the circumstances that may give rise to a

need for a health & safety policy to be reviewed
(8)
“ The answer”
1. After significant changes in work processes or the introduction of new equipment
or materials being used
2. After the introduction of new legislation which is applicable to the organisation
3. After significant alterations to work patterns, for example the introduction of shift
work
4. When risk assessments are reviewed which show a need for policy changes
5. When considered necessary actions following an accident investigation to improve
safe systems of work
6. After a visit by the enforcement authority & action/improvement has been
advised as a result of weaknesses in the H&S policy
7. After the results of audits & inspections have found weakness in the H&S policy
requirements
8. After passage of time, so re signed & dated by the CEO after a period of 12
months
Chapter 3 H&S Management Systems 2
- Organizing
3.1 Organisational H&S roles & responsibilities of employers,
directors, managers, workers & other relevant parties
3.2 Concept of H&S culture & its significance in the
management of H&S in an organization
3.3 Human factors which influence behaviour at work
3.4 How H&S behaviour at work can be improved
3.5 Emergency procedures & the arrangements for contacting
emergency services
3.6 Requirements for, & effective provision of first-aid in the
workplace
Roles & responsibilties
May 2013 Q2, Sep 2013 Q4
(2)
An organisation has all of its maintenance
carried out by contractors. Outline how the
organisation can help to ensure this work is
carried out safely (8)
"The answer"
SELECTING A CONTRACTOR
1. Have they experience of this type of work, with suitable references?
2. Have they membership of trade/professional bodies?
3. Checking for written references on their H&S performance from previous clients they
have carried out work for
4. Asking for a copy of their H&S policy statement & other aspects of their H&S
management system
PLANNING THE JOB
1. A full exchange of information concerning all related risks with the activities to be
carried out by the contractor & indeed the clients’ activities which may effect the
contractors employees
CONTROLLINGCONTRACTORS ON SITE
1. Controlling the contractors during the project to ensure compliance with PTWs,
emergency arrangement & good channels of communication
CHECKING CONTRACTORS WORK
1. Monitoring the contractors performance at regular intervals to highlight any non-
conformances
REVIEWING THEIR PERFORMANCE
1. Evaluation of the contractors performance, including whether or not to employ them
for future projects
Dec 2012 Q9
(1)
(a) Outline the H&S duties of designers,
manufacturers & suppliers of articles &
substances (5)
(b) If those in the supply chain fail to carry out

their duties, outline H&S consequences in
the workplace (3)
1. To ensure their products were safe & fit for their intended purpose
by prior testing
2. This could include testing substances to ensure they are safe &
supplying relevant hazard data sheets if they are not
3. For supply within the European Community, ensuring the CE
marking of the product to ensure minimum safety standards
4. Providing comprehensive instructions for more complex &
dangerous products such as cranes etc
5. To ensure safety aspects are designed into the product, for example
ensuring a guard on a piece of machinery cannot be easily defeated
(b) (3)
1. An increase in accidents & incidents caused by failed

products which were not designed correctly for the
task there were to perform
2. By manufacturers supplying insufficient instructions
on operation of their product which could lead to
serious injuries etc
3. Failing to identify the weight of loads may lead to
manual handling injuries etc
2103 Q4
(1)
There has been a significant increase in manual handling accidents
to nursing staff working in a busy hospital
(a) Identify
(i) Organisational factors (2)
(ii) Job factors (2)
(b) Identify sources of information that may be consulted in
order to help reduce the risk to the workers (4)
"The answer" (a) (i) (2)
1. The culture of the organisation with more
emphasis being given to the care of patients
rather then to the staff
2. With a lack of management commitment to
achieving good standards of H&S for their workers
(ii) (2)
1. Excessive workload, with conflicting demands & little

opportunity for rest periods
2. No procedures in place for handling patients often in
restricted spaces with inadequate standards of lighting
(b) (2) internal / external
1. Those provided by national agencies such as the

International Labour Organisation ILO
2. Consultation with the workers themselves or
other organisations doing similar work
3. Manual handling risk assessments
4. Interviewing the staff
Jun 2012 Q, Feb 2014 Q5
(2)
Outline why it is important that all persons are
aware of their roles & responsibilities for H&S (8)
"The answer"
1. So that all persons within the organisation will be aware of the contribution they
have to make
2. It will also be seen as an indication of the commitment & leadership of senior
management
3. Recognition that H&S is a core function of every job & must be given appropriate
priority
4. There will be added benefits in setting clear communication & reporting lines
5. In defining individual competencies & training needs particular to specific roles
such as first aid & fire
6. In setting improvements in the safety culture of the organisation in general
7. People will take on more accountability for their actions as a result of knowing
their organisational responsibilities
8. Helping to understand other peoples roles & responsibilities, therefore improving
cooperation
Mar 2011Q1
(1)
Outline the H&S roles & responsibilities of
(a) Directors & senior managers (6)
(b) Supervisors (6)
(c) Workers (4)
(d) Persons with primary H&S functions e.g.
H&S Officer (4)
1. The main H&S responsibilities of directors & senior managers are to
prepare & sign a H&S policy
2. To set goals & objectives for the organisation for ensuring continual
improvement
3. To lead by example & to demonstrate commitment which may mean
wearing of PPE
4. To allocate responsibilities for H&S throughout the organisation & to set
aside sufficient resources such as for example for training those who
have been allocated special roles
5. To secure competent H&S advice such as appointing a H&S Advisor
6. To receive monitoring reports & instigate action to rectify any
deficiencies that have been found
(b) (6)
1. As for supervisors, they should control work in their work area of
responsibility & set a good example
2. They should take part in carrying out risk assessments, in the
development of consequent safe systems of work
3. Ensure that members of their teams are fully briefed on the systems once
they have been introduced
4. They should carry out inspections of their working areas & deal with any
unsafe conditions or actions
5. Reporting to managers if any situation they personally do not have the
power to take the necessary actions
6. They finally have an important role to play in training, coaching &
mentoring members of their team
(c) (4)
1. Taking reasonable care of their own H&S & those who may
be affected by their actions such as their fellow workers
2. Cooperating with their employer by following safe systems of
work, wearing PPE
3. Reporting accidents & unsafe conditions to their supervisor
or other nominated member of management
4. They also have an important role to play in taking an active
part in any consultation exercise set up by their employer
(d) (4)
1. They would be expected to provide competent advice on
H&S & advise persons on legal implications
2. Assist in the development of the H&S policy & procedures &
their periodic reviews
3. Intervene when they come across any unsafe conditions or
acts & explain the possible consequences to the organisation
4. Liaise with representatives of external agencies such as
enforcing authorities
Jan 2013 Q2
(1)
Two organisations share the same worksite.
Outline how the organisations could work
together to help ensure the workplace is safe &
healthy (8)
"The answer"
1. First they will need to consider the coordination of emergency procedures such as
fire, first aid, etc.
2. Who will be responsible for reporting of accidents & dangerous occurrence
between the 2 organisations
3. An exchange of H&S policy statements & general arrangement for H&S such as
training
4. There will need to be good channels of communication on a regular basis on H&S
matters
5. This may include the setting up of a H&S committee to meet at regular intervals to
discuss / monitor the arrangements between the 2 organisations
6. Perhaps a joint system for the maintenance & testing of equipment, both
electrical & mechanical
7. A full exchange of H&S information on each others activities & risks, including safe
systems of work
8. Encouraging consultation & co-operation between both sets of workers from each
organisation
Oct 2010 Q3, Apr 2011 Q3
(2)
Identify possible influences on an organisation’s

H&S management (8)
1. EU organisations such as the European Parliament

2. As well as those charged with its enforcement authorities & fire
authorities
3. Standard-setting bodies British Standards Institute BSI
4. Trade associations by providing advice to employees on industry norms
& good practice
5. Trade unions by providing information & support to members
6. Insurance companies by placing requirements on employers as a
condition of insurance
7. Campaigning groups such as the Royal Society for the Prevention of
Accidents RoSPA
8. Management of an organisation will also be aware of the damage that
might be done to their image
Oct 2010 Q4 & Apr 2011 Q4, Sep 2011 Q4,
Feb 2014 Q8
(4)
Contractors are carrying out a major building
project for an organisation. Outline how this
organisation could reduce the risks to contractors
before the start of AND during the building project
(8)
"The answer"
SELECTING A CONTRACTOR
1. Have they experience of this type of work, with suitable references?

2. Have they membership of trade/professional bodies?
3. Checking for written references on their H&S performance from previous clients they have
carried out work for
4. Asking for a copy of their H&S policy statement & other aspects of their H&S management
system
PLANNING THE JOB
1. A full exchange of information concerning all related risks with the activities to be carried out by
the contractor & indeed the clients’ activities which may effect the contractors employees
CONTROLLING THE CONTRACTORS ON SITE
1. Controlling the contractors during the project to ensure compliance with PTWs, emergency
arrangement & good channels of communication
CHECKING CONTRACTORS WORK
1. Monitoring the contractors performance at regular intervals to highlight any non-conformances
REVIEWING THEIR PERFORMANCE
1. Evaluation of the contractors performance, including whether or not to employ them for future
projects
Mar 2011 Q7, Sep 2013 Q3, Sep 2013
Q10
(3)
(a) Give TWO reasons why visitors to a
workplace might be at greater risk of injury
than workers (2)
(b) Identify precautions that could be taken to
reduce the risk of injury to visitors to a
workplace (6)
1. Their unfamiliarity with the processes carried

out at the workplace
2. The hazards present & their associated risks
& the fact that they had not been issued with
PPE
(b) (6)
1. Visitor identification, for examples such as badges with a
routine for signing in & out
2. Prior notification to those members of staff to be involved in
the visit
3. The provision of information to the visitors in suitable
languages on hazards & emergency procedures
4. An explanation of specific site rules, for example, restricted
areas & the wearing of PPE
5. The clear marking of pedestrian routes
6. The need for visitors to be escorted by a member of
management or supervisory staff
Sept 2010 Q2, Oct 2012, Nov 2012 Q4, Mar
2012 Q11 7, Mar 2013 Q4
(5)
Outline precautions that could be taken to ensure

the H&S of visitors to a workplace (8)
"The answer"
1. Relative Induction training at the security gate, before entry is allowed onto the
site
2. Visitor identification, for example, by the issue of badges with a routine for signing
in & out at he start & finish of their visit
3. Prior notification to those members of staff to be involved in the visit of the
identification of the visitors & the reason for their visit
4. The provision of information to visitors in suitable languages on hazards &
emergency procedures, such as fire evacuation including muster points & 1st aid
procedures
5. An explanation of specific site rules, for example, restricted areas & the wearing of
PPE
6. The clear marking of pedestrian routes & crossing points to reduce risk of accident
with vehicles
7. Clear signage of work areas to ensure safe & easy access by the visitors
8. & the need for visitors to be escorted by a member of management or supervisory
staff
Mar 2010, Sep 2011,Sep 2013 Q6
(3)
(a) Outline the main responsibilities of
employers (6)
(b) Identify actions an enforcement authority
might take if it finds that an employer is not
meeting its responsibilities (2)
1. To provide a safe place of work which includes, safe systems of
work, safe plant & equipment
2. To provide safe access & egress & a good working
environment (adequate levels of temperature, lighting etc)
3. To maintain the workplace to ensure it stays in good
condition, by ensuring good housekeeping
4. The provision of adequate welfare facilities such as toilets,
canteens accommodation for clothing
5. To provide information, instruction, training & supervision to
all employees & refresh it when necessary to ensure on going
competence
6. To prepare & revise as necessary a H&S policy & bring it to the
attention of all employees
(b) (2)
1. Giving advice or warning either verbally or in writing

2. Issuing improvement or prohibition notices
Jun 2013 Q4
(1)
Give FOUR H&S responsibilities that employers
have towards workers AND in EACH case give an
example how this responsibility could be met (8)
"The answer"
1. Employers have a responsibility to produce a H&S policy
2. This can take the form of a H&S policy statement of intent signed by the
employer
3. They have a responsibility to provide safe systems of work
4. This would include the identification of hazards in the workplace,
assessment of their level of risks & the control measures to be introduced
to reduce the risk to an acceptable level
5. They have to provide welfare facilities which are adequate
6. Such as drinking water, rest room, clean & well ventilated toilets etc.
7. They have to ensure that all workers are competent in their work
8. By providing information, instruction, training & supervision
Nov 2006 Q5, Oct 2012, Jun 2013,Oct
2013 Q8
(4)
Outline the main responsibilities of

(i) Employers (4)
(ii) Employees (4)
1. To provide a safe place of work which includes, safe systems of

work, safe plant & equipment
2. Provide safe access & egress & a good working environment
(adequate levels of temperature, lighting etc)
3. To maintain the workplace to ensure it stays in good condition &
provision of adequate welfare facilities
4. To provide information, instruction, training & supervision to all
employees to ensure their competence
(b) (4)
1. To look after their own H&S & the H&S of their fellow employees,
& ensure that they are not affected by their acts & omissions
2. To follow all H&S instructions provided, including safe systems of
work provided
3. To report any significant hazards in the workplace immediately to
someone in authority
4. To wear at all times PPE when provided & to report any defects of
losses of that PPE to management & to carry out pre-use checks &
store correctly
Dec 2005 Q11, May, Aug, Nov 2006 Q11, Mar 2007
Q11, Nov 2007 Q11, Dec 2007 Q11, May 2008 Q7, Jul
2008 Q7, Nov 2008 Q5, Dec 2008 Q9, Apr 2009 Q7,
Jun 2012 Q11, Sep 2013 Q3
(14)
List the factors that could be considered when

assessing the health & safety competence of a
contractor (8)
"The answer"
1. The contractors previous experience with the type of work
2. The reputation of the contractor amongst previous or current
clients
3. The content & quality of the contractor’s H&S policy & risk
assessments
4. The level of training & qualifications of staff
5. Accident/enforcement history of the organisation
6. Membership of accreditation or certification bodies
7. Equipment maintenance & statutory examination records
8. The detailed proposals including method statements for the work
to be carried out
H&S Culture
Nov 2013 Q9
(1)
Identify reasons why workers fail to comply
with safety procedures at work (8)
"The answer" ORGANISATION / JOB / INDIVIDUAL
1. A poor health and safety culture in general
2. A general lack of senior management commitment
3. Poor channels of communication
4. Priority being given to production before health and safety
5. Poor welfare facilities
6. Long working hours with little rest breaks
7. Poor environmental and working conditions
8. Lack of motivation for the workers to work safely
Jun 2013 Q1
(1)
(a) Outline the
(i) Organisational (5)
(ii) Job (5)
(iii) Individual (5)
Factors that could lead to poor H&S behaviour in the

workplace
(b) Outline factors that contribute to workers’

competence (5)
1. A lack of control / commitment from senior management in
general with production issues taking preference over H&S issues
2. Poor channels of communication within the organisation both
verbal & written instructions & safe systems of work
3. A lack of competence on behalf of individuals to a lack of
information, instruction, training & supervision to the workers
4. Poor welfare facilities provided, leading to stress within the
workforce which may increase the risk of near misses & accidents
5. A lack of cooperation between management & the workforce due
to a lack of consultation & therefore leading to a lack of
commitment on the workers behalf
(a)(ii) (5)
1. There may be poor ergonomics, with little thought given to the design of
the workplace in general, such as cramped working conditions, poor
lighting
2. The tasks may be repetitive & boring with little time for rest breaks leading
to stress & more chance of mistake which can cause accidents
3. On the other hand the task may be too arduous or demanding with too
many decisions to make
4. There may be extremes of temperature within the working environment or
high levels of noise / vibration leading to stress & human error
5. There may be lack of maintenance concerning machinery, leading to guards
which are not working correctly or easily by passed by workers
(a)(iii) (5)
1. Personal factors such as language barriers or cultural differences of

the worker
2. Generally a poor attitude towards H&S & a lack of personal
motivation to work safely
3. Personal problems in their personal life away from the workplace,
such as financial difficulties, a bereavement in the family
4. Poor learning skills or inherent sensory impairment such as hard of
hearing or poor eyesight
5. Under the general influence of drugs & alcohol which will cause
slower reactions to any possible hazards & risks in the workplace
(b) (5)
1. Their past work experience in the task they are carrying out,
so the are fully aware of the inherent hazards & risks involved
2. Their appropriate level of relevant training & qualifications
for the task being carried out
3. Their ability to know when they are not competent to do a
certain aspect of a task & to ask for the appropriate advice
from a supervisor etc
4. There general attitude towards H&S being of a high standard
& well motivated to work safely
5. Their ability / aptitude to learn new skills quickly, perceive
risks correctly, & to report near misses as soon as possible
Nov 2012 Q9, Mar 2013 Q9, Sep 2013
Q7
(3)
There has been a significant deterioration in the
H&S culture of an organisation
(a) Give the meaning of the term H&S culture
(2)
(b) Identify factors that could have contributed
to the deterioration of the H&S culture within
the organisation (6)
1. An organisation’s combined & individual beliefs & attitudes

to a common goal of continual improvement of H&S
2. The way we do things around here & H&S is seen as the
norm
(b) (6)
1. An economic downturn within the country

2. A change in top management who are not committed to H&S
3. An increase in production demands
4. A breakdown in lines of communication
5. A lack of information, instruction, training & supervision
6. Increase in the rate of production or longer working hours
Nov 2006 Q6, Mar 2010 Q11
(2)
(a) Explain the meaning of the term perception

(2)
(b) Outline ways in which employees’ perceptions of
hazards in the workplace might be improved
(6)
1. The way that people interpret & make sense of

presented information, for instance, in relation to their
surroundings
2. Using their common senses of sight, hearing, smell, taste
& touch, with sight being the most powerful
(b) (6)
1. Firstly that there is a need to identify, perhaps by the use of surveys, the
reasons for employees’ misperceptions in order to show how
improvements might be achieved & how currently held views may be
challenged
2. Making hazards more obvious for example, by the use of safety signs to
employees
3. Addressing environmental factors, such as lighting & noise, that might
cause distraction or otherwise hinder the perceptual process of
employees
4. By having good ergonomics, which include good housekeeping to
prevent hazards being hidden to employees
5. Involving employees in near miss/accident reporting within the
workplace to increase their hazard awareness
6. Training programmes to identify employees who may have low levels of
risk perception
Nov 2005 Q2, Nov 2006 Q2, Mar 2007 Q7,
Sep 2010 Q6, Mar 2011 Q2, Jun 2013
(6)
Outline ways in which the health & safety culture of

an organization might be improved (8)
"The answer"
1. A clear policy with health & safety being given obvious equal priority to other
business objectives (production, quality, etc.)
2. The setting of realistic & achievable targets that motivate employees to improve
H&S performance
3. The provision of a good working environment (including lighting, noise reduction,
temperature etc.) which will facilitate good safe working practices
4. Pro-active monitoring of health & safety standards, including regular inspections
& audits to ensure continual improvement
5. Effective communication channels, verbal, written, visual throughout all levels of
the organisation
6. A no blame culture, & employees reward & recognition schemes for reporting
near misses etc.
7. & consultation with, & the involvement of, the workforce & acting on their
opinions
8. Improvement of welfare facilities, reasonable working hours, rest breaks etc.
Nov 2013 Q5
(1)
Outline why an organisation may have poor

standards of health and safety performance (8)
"The answer"
1. A lack clear policy with health & safety being second priority to other
business objectives (production, quality, etc)
2. The failure to set of realistic & achievable targets that motivate employees
to improve H&S performance
3. The lack of provision of a good working environment (including lighting,
noise reduction, temperature etc.) which will facilitate good safe working
practices
4. A lack of proactive monitoring of health & safety standards, including
regular inspections & audits to ensure continual improvement
5. Lack of effective communication channels, verbal, written, visual
throughout all levels of the organisation
6. A blame culture, & employees not being given recognition schemes for
reporting near misses etc.
7. Lack of consultation with, & no involvement of, the workforce & acting on
their opinions
8. A lack of welfare facilities, reasonable working hours, rest breaks etc.
Nov 2006 Q10, Jan 2013 Q10, Sept
2011 Q11, May 2013 Q10
(5)
Outline the personal factors relating to the
individual which might increase the risk of harm to
a worker while at work (8)
"The answer"
1. A generally poor attitude to work, authority &/or risk often coupled with low
motivation
2. Issues relating to physical capabilities or development (such as lack of stature,
strength &/or stamina) & to mental capabilities (such as poor reasoning skills)
3. Generally a poor perception of risk, perhaps influenced by alcohol or drugs
4. Age-related behavioural factors associated with immaturity especially in young
persons
5. Innate or medical conditions affecting physical or mental capacity with poor
reasoning skills
6. Factors relating to the levels of training & experience of the individual & their
competence
7. Personal problems in their home life, such as financial, moving house, sick next
of kin, deaths
8. Over familiarity & complacency with the risks of the task even though the worker
may have lots of experience
Aug 2006 Q5
(1)
Outline ways in which employers may motivate

their employees to comply with health & safety
procedures (8)
"The answer"
1. Motivation is the driving force behind the way in which a person acts in order to
achieve a goal
2. Improving, by training & the provision of information, employee’s knowledge of
the consequences of not working safely
3. Showing the commitment of the organisation to safety by providing resources & a
safe working environment
4. Involving employees in H&S decisions by consultation & team meetings, tool box
talks etc
5. Recognising & rewarding achievement by verbal praise, promotion, prizes etc
6. Eliminating boring monotonous tasks by automation or job rotation or rest breaks
7. Clear written procedures & instructions which are not ambiguous & easy to
understand
8. By the setting of clear aims, objectives & targets to stimulate employees to
continually improve H&S
Dec 2011 Q6
(1)
(a) Give the meaning of the term motivation (2)
(b) Identify how an organisation can motivate its
workers to adopt safe working practices (6)
1. Motivation is the driving force behind the way in which a

person acts in order to achieve a goal
2. Fulfilling a persons basic need to achieve something of
value
(b) (6)
1. Improving, by training & the provision of information, employee’s
knowledge of the consequences of not working safely
2. Showing the commitment of the organisation to safety by providing
resources & a safe working environment
3. Involving employees in H&S decisions by consultation & team
meetings
4. Recognising & rewarding achievement by verbal praise, promotion,
prizes etc
5. Eliminating boring monotonous tasks by automation or job rotation
6. By the setting of clear aims, objectives & targets to stimulate
employees to continually improve H&S
Dec 2005 Q4, May 2006 Q4, Nov 2005 Q6, Nov 2006
Q5, Mar 2007 Q4, Jun 2007 Q6, Nov 2007 Q4, Dec
2007 Q4, May 2008 Q6, Jul 2008 Q6, Nov 2008 Q9,
Dec 2008 Q11, Apr 2009 Q6
(13)
(a) Explain the reasons that place young persons at
greater risk of accidents at work (4)
(b) Outline the measures that could be taken to
minimise the risk to young persons (4)
1. Lack of perception of risk or of ability to avoid risk (because of

limited knowledge, experience &/or lack of training)
2. The individual’s stage of physical/psychological development
which can make them more prone to injury from some hazards in
the workplace, such as ionising radiation
3. The tendency of young persons to take risks through bravado &
lack of maturity
4. The tendency of young people to respond to peer group pressure
& want to be seen to fit in with the norm of the group
(b) (4)
1. The completion of risk assessments with young persons specifically in mind, to

identify any activities which would impose greater risk
2. Induction programmes, careful supervision or mentoring by an experienced co-
worker
3. Clear lines of communication, & limits on the number of hours worked to reduce
fatigue
4. Not employing them on high risk activities & acclimatisation to work (no shift
work)
Dec 2005 Q1, May 2006 Q1, Mar 2007 Q1,
Nov 2007 Q1, Dec 2007 Q1
(5)
(a) Outline ways of reducing the likelihood of human error
in the workplace (8)
(b) Give FOUR reasons why the seriousness of a
hazard may be underestimated by someone
exposed to it (4)
(c) Outline ways in which managers can motivate
employees to work safely (8)
1. The use of skilled, trained & competent staff (including pre-employment
screening issues)
2. Motivation of the workforce by good channels of communication, consultation
with clear concise operating procedures etc
3. Task variety to prevent monotony & the provision of frequent breaks to avoid
work overload
4. Addressing workplace environmental issues such as noise, light & heat
5. Mechanisation & automation of processes as much as possible to eliminate
risks to employees
6. Ensuring that controls on machinery are clearly marked & unambiguous &
ergonomically designed (taking into account human anthropometry)
7. Implementation of a drug & alcohol policy to ensure to help ensure employers
ensure employees are fit for work
8. Providing competent supervision of employees with mentoring for less
experienced employees
(b) (4)
1. Over familiarity & complacency with the task

2. Lack of instruction, information & training
3. The fact that some hazards may be invisible &/or
intangible
4. Involvement in routine, repetitive tasks that can lead
to boredom, mental & physical fatigue
(c) (8)
1. The overt recognition of good health & safety performance (e.g. by giving
praise &/or offering financial incentives) is important in this respect
2. Conversely, disciplining employees who choose to ignore safe working
procedures has its place but tends to be less effective
3. Involving employees, for instance, in carrying out risk assessments &
drawing up safe systems of work
4. Improving the company’s health & safety culture & demonstrating a high
level of management commitment
5. Ensuring a good working environment, including lighting, temperature,
noise reduction & access & egress
6. Providing training & ensuring good communication, including consultation
with employees
7. Provision of adequate welfare facilities such as canteen facilities, toilets
etc
8. Extra supervision of less competent employees
Training
Dec 2012 Q11
(1)
An employer is setting up a H&S training programme
(a) Identify the benefits to
(i) The employer (2)
(ii) The worker (2)
(b) Identify when H&S training would be provided
to workers (4)
"The answer"(a)(i) (2)
1. A reduced accident frequency/severity rate which

would mean less lost time & injuries to workers
2. Less chance of prosecution on the criminal side or
claims for compensation on the civil side
(ii) (2)
1. A better understanding of their roles &

responsibilities
2. Understanding in safe systems of work &
reducing the level of risk
(b) (4)
1. On induction training when joining the

company
2. After a serious accident in the workplace
3. After a long absence of ill-health from work
4. Refresher training for emergency procedures
Dec 2011 Q7
(1)
Identify factors that should be considered when
developing a programme of H&S training (8)
"The answer"
1. The completion of a training needs analysis is an important first step in the
development of any programme of training
2. In deciding what employees need to know, consideration should be given to
3. Their roles & responsibilities within the workplace, & the activities carried out
4. An assessment would then need to be made of employees’ existing knowledge
5. The levels & types of training already received & any indications of where
deficiencies may lie
6. From the training needs analysis would emerge information on the number of
employees involved the types of training needed
7. The factors to be considered at this stage would include the competence &
expertise of in-house staff to provide the required training
8. The possible need to involve external sources
Feb 2014 Q1
(1)
An organisation needs to review its provision of health and
safety training for its workers
(a) Identify factors that should be considered when

developing a programme of health and safety training (4)
(b) Identify measures that might be used to assess the
effectiveness of health and safety training (4)
(c) Identify checks that could be made to assess whether a
person is competent (4)
(d) Give reasons why it is important for an employer to keep
a record of the training provided to each worker (4)
See other questions
Aug 2006 Q1, Nov 2008 Q1
(2)
An independent audit of an organization has concluded that
employees have received insufficient health & safety training
(i) Describe the factors that should be considered when

developing an extensive program of health & safety
training within the organization (12)
(ii) Outline the various measures that might be used to assess the
effectiveness of such training (4)
(iii) Give FOUR reasons why it is important for an employer to keep

a record of the training provided to each employee (4)
"The answer" (i) (12)
1. The completion of a training needs analysis is an important first step in the

development of any program of training (i.e. comparing what employees
need to know to know with what they already know)
2. In deciding what employees need to know, consideration should be given
to
1. Their roles & responsibilities within the workplace, do they involve

high risk complicated procedures or having to keep abreast of new
technology
2. The activities carried out, to ensure the appropriateness of the type of

training required
3. The risks associated with those activities & the actions required of
employees to minimize such risks
1. A senior manager, for instance, will have different training needs with
respect to H&S from those of a supervisor or a shop floor employee
2. An assessment would then need to be made of employees’ existing
knowledge, taking into account their previous experience & how long they
have worked in the organization
3. The levels & types of training already received & any indications of where
deficiencies may lie (e.g. from incident data or by observation)
4. From the training needs analysis would emerge information on the
number of employees involved the types of training needed & the
resources (in terms of financial costs, time & facilities) required to carry
out the program
5. The factors to be considered at this stage would include the competence
& expertise of in-house staff to provide the required training the possible
need to involve external sources & the means of communicating the
program to employees at all levels in order to seek their commitment to &
their views on, the program
(ii) (4)
1. Post-training evaluation by trainers which could include
the passing of an exam paper
2. Accident rates & sickness absences should reduce as
people work safer in healthier surroundings
3. Levels of compliance with laid-down procedures (such as
the wearing of PPE) should increase
4. The number & quality of suggestions made & concerns
raised, by employees with respect to H&S
(iii) (4)
1. To provide proof of an employee’s expected level of

competence & to identify when additional or refresher
training might be needed
2. To enable a review of the effectiveness of the training
carried out
3. To assess the progress of the training program against
targets
4. To provide evidence to be used in any future accident
investigation or legal actions
Mar 2007 Q6, Oct 2013 Q5
(2)
Outline the main health & safety issues to be

included in an induction training programme for
new employees (8)
"The answer"
1. The organisation’s H&S policy describing the risk assessment process &
management’s commitment
2. Emergency procedures for fire, describing escape routes & muster points
3. Hazards specific to the workplace & the need to comply with H&S requirements
4. Health & safety responsibilities & lines of communication within the organisation
5. Accident & first-aid arrangements including forms to be used & who to report to
6. Welfare provision including location (canteen facilities, toilets, changing
accommodation)
7. Health surveillance & consultation procedures for the workers to give them a
sense of well being
8. Overview of H&S legislation requirements, moral aspect & financial reasons
Dec 2005 Q9, May 2006 Q9, Nov 2006, Mar 2007 Q9,
Nov 2007 Q9, Dec 2007 Q9, Nov 2008 Q3
(7)
Outline reasons why an employee might require

additional health & safety training at a later stage of
employment within an organisation (8)
"The answer"
1. The introduction of new processes, equipment & methods of work relating to the
employee
2. As a result of a job change involving different health & safety requirements or the
allocation of additional responsibilities
3. Following the introduction of new legislation applicable to the employee’s task
4. Where risk assessments or staff appraisals of the employee indicate that
additional training is necessary
5. Where refresher training is required such as that required for fork-lift truck
operators & first-aid personnel
6. Following an accident, enforcement action or insurance impositions
7. To counteract the possibility of employees becoming complacent & lax in
following established procedures for health & safety
8. After a long absence from work due to illness or injury where new equipment etc
may have been introduced during that period of absence
Aug 2006 Q3
(1)
Outline the factors that will determine the level of

supervision that a new employee should receive
during their initial period of employment within an
organisation (8)
"The answer"
1. The age of the employee, as well as their experience of work in general & of the
task to be performed in particular
2. The nature & complexity of the task & its inherent risks which will require more
supervision
3. The person’s skills & qualifications for the work & their attitude towards H&S in
general
4. Their general attitude towards H&S & aptitude for the task they are carrying out
5. Language barriers or cultural differences which may require an interpreter / extra
consultation
6. The systems of work & any specific safety requirements applying to the task
7. The employee’s communication skills & any special needs that they may have
8. Feedback from supervisors / mentors on the performance of the individual in the
workplace
Communication
Oct 2013 Q10
(1)
Identify merits (advantages) AND limitations
(disadvantages) of the following methods of
communication of health & safety messages
(a) Written (4)
(b) Graphic (4)
1. The merits of written information are where a lot of
information has to be relayed to the worker, such as
manufacturers instructions for machinery
2. Written information can also be used a record to help
mitigate circumstances against civil claims or
prosecution
3. Limitations include language barriers for people who
have not been accommodated by different languages
of the host country
4. The communication may be too complicated or
ambiguous or full of technical jargon
(b) (4)
1. Merits of graphic communication is for safety signs,
which are simple & easy to understand & use
different colours
2. This also applies to certain types of controls on
machinery which may also be coloured & digital
graphic displays for ease of understanding
3. Limitations may be that safety sign needs to be more
specific concerning a hazard & will need additional
written information
4. The graphic display may be too obscure & not tell
exactly what is required of the worker
Dec 2011 Q4, Nov 2103 Q2
(2)
(a) Explain why it is important for an
organisation to consult with its workers on
H&S issues (4)
(b) Outline the factors that may determine
the effectiveness of a safety committee(4)
1. Participation by the workers will help their
understanding of the value & importance of H&S
2. It will raise the profile of H&S issues & develop their
feeling of ownership of safety measures
3. Additionally, by seeking their views & allowing them
to contribute to the decision making
4. Management would demonstrate their commitment
to H&S while the workers motivation may be
increased & their morale improved
"The answer" (b) (4)
1. The membership of the committee constituting an even
balance between the management & employee
representation
2. Under the chairmanship of a fair, strong individual with
one member of sufficient seniority to authorise any
agreed actions
3. The competence & training of committee members with
the provision of access to professional H&S advice &
support
4. The allocation of resources for the committee meetings
which should be at a convenient time & notified in
advance to all members
Jan 2013 Q3, May 2013 Q3
(2)
(a) Identify FOUR types of H&S information
that could be displayed on a noticeboard
within a workplace (4)
(b) Identify how the effectiveness of notice
boards as a method of communicating
H&S information can be increased (4)
1. Copies of the minutes taken from H&S

committee meetings
2. Contact number for first aid people & fire
marshalls
3. A copy of the H&S policy of the organisation
4. Results of previous inspections & audits
(b) (4)
1. By ensuring colours are used to highlight
certain topics
2. By ensuring they are positioned in prominent
positions in the workplace
3. Ensuring information is current & not out of
date
4. Ensuring the information contained is
relevant to each part of the workplace
Aug 2006 Q9, Nov 2006 Q9, Mar 2012
Q7
(3)
Give reasons why a verbal instruction may not be
clearly understood by an employee (8)
"The answer"
1. Complex, jargonistic, ambiguous message
2. Distorted by a telephone or tannoy
3. Inconsistent with body language
4. Due to the environment (e.g noise)
5. Inattention due to apathy or fatigue
6. Lack of knowledge or experience
7. Restricted by as ear defenders in a noisy environment
8. If a long complicated instruction
Dec 2005 Q5, May 2006 Q5, Nov 2006 Q5,
Jun 2007 Q5, May 2008 Q5, Jul 2008 Q5,
Apr 2009 Q5
(7)
Outline the topics that may need to be included on
the agenda of a safety committee meeting (8)
"The answer"
1. A review of the risk assessment procedures, including effectiveness of existing

risk assessments
2. A review of recent incidents to check the effectiveness of the near miss
reporting system & a continuing downward trends in accidents
3. A review of proactive monitoring strategies such as safety inspections & audits
4. Reports following visits by enforcement authorities which may have
highlighted weaknesses in the H&S management system
5. Additionally, the safety committee agenda should include items on possible
amendments to the company’s H&S policy
6. The extent & effectiveness of any H&S training given to employees
7. The introduction of new equipment & processes which may require extra
training etc.
8. Concerns raised by safety representatives, as well as for management to raise
its concerns about poor safety practices
Nov 2006 Q8, Oct 2012, June 2012 Q5,
Sep 2013 Q2
(4)
Explain why it is important to use a variety of

methods to communicate health & safety
information in the workplace (8)
"The answer"
1. This should have led candidates to suggest that people respond differently to
different stimuli, such as visual / verbal etc.
2. That variety prevents over-familiarisation with one method & helps to reinforce
a message & prevents it becoming stale
3. The need to overcome language barriers & the inability of some employees to
read properly
4. The need to motivate, stimulate interest & gain involvement & feedback at team
briefings/toolbox talks etc.
5. The acceptance that different types of information require different methods of
communication, such as visual, written & verbal
6. Visual communication such as safety signs are easy to understand the hazard
being faced without any confusion
7. Conversely comprehensive written instructions will be required for operating
complicated machinery
8. Telephone & tannoy messages may be distorted in emergencies & would better
replaced by alarms, sirens & flashing lights
Mar 2007 Q1
(1)
Following a significant increase in accidents, a health &
safety campaign is to be launched within an organisation
to encourage safer working by employees
(i) Outline how the organisation might ensure that
the nature of the campaign is effectively
communicated to, & understood by, the
employees (8)
(ii) Other than poor communication, describe the

organisational factors that could limit the
effectiveness of the campaign (12)
1. To ensure that everybody within an organization knows the part that they are to
play within a H&S campaign
2. An important prerequisite is to have clear objectives & targets for the campaign,
& to be clear on the means of achieving them
3. It is also important that key responsibilities for aspects of the campaign are
allocated, & accepted with due commitment, in order to avoid mixed messages
4. In this respect, through, a variety of means (posters, e-mails, toolbox talks
5. training sessions, etc.) could be used to communicate & reinforce the message,
with account taken of the language used in order to facilitate understanding
6. Avoidance of jargon & use of plain English, etc.
7. Toolbox talks, suggestion boxes, surveys & informal means of consultation can
be used to involve employees & to provide a feedback loop to check that
employees understand what the campaign is about & to assess the level of
support
8. It is also important to provide feedback to employees on how the campaign is
progressing so that focus on the campaign’s objectives is maintained
(ii) (12)
1. Lack of senior management commitment to the campaign through
a poor health & safety culture & not leading by example
2. Production or other business pressures consistently taking priority
over health & safety, so not enough time is allocated to the
campaign
3. Insufficient resources allocated to the campaign through lack of
funding set aside & lack of planning & follow up actions placed
upon key personnel to implement the campaign
4. A poor safety culture in general, creating apathy amongst the
employees & suspicions as to the real reasons for the campaign
(ii)cont. (12)
1. Generally poor working conditions, including poor ergonomics & working

environment, lack of adequate welfare facilities, long working hours are
likely to induce cynicism towards the campaign amongst employees
2. In addition, poor industrial relations or a lack of confidence in
management’s ability could mean that the campaign is not given support
of influential members of staff
3. Work patterns (e.g. shiftwork, holidays & sickness absence) could also
mean that some sections of the workforce are not fully considered or
supported, possibly due to the non-availability of key staff
4. Personnel unsure of their roles & responsibilities concerning the
implementation of the campaign, causing confusion & uncertainty
5. A lack of sufficient training given to employees, so they do not know fully
how to carry out the actions placed upon them
6. An overall lack of coordination, commitment & cooperation to the
implementation of the campaign
Mar 2007 Q5
(1)
Employers have a requirement placed upon them

under health & safety to involve their employees
(a) Explain the difference between consulting &
informing (2)
(b) Outline the health & safety matters on
which employers must consult their
employees (6)
1. Information to employees is usually one-way communication

without the need for feedback, for example emergency
arrangements for fire
2. Consultation on the other hand is two way communication
between management & employees & acting upon the
opinions of those employees consulted with
(ii) (6)
1. The introduction of any measures at the workplace that may substantially

affect the employees’ H&S
2. How to implement the requirements of new legislation that may require
revision of risk assessments, safe systems of work etc
3. The arrangements for appointing &/or nomination competent persons, who
may well be voted for by the employees
4. The H&S implications of introducing new technology which may require extra
training
5. The planning & organisation of H&S training to ensure that it is appropriate to
the needs of employees
6. The information that the employer is required to provide under other
Regulations, such as that relating to risk assessments, preventative measures
& emergency procedures
Emergency procedures
Nov 2006 Q9, Jun 2031 Q5
(1)
(a) Identify FOUR types of emergency procedures

that an organisation might need to have in place
(4)
(b) Explain why visitors to a workplace should be
informed of the emergency procedures (4)
1. Emergency procedures for fire evacuation & assembly

points
2. Emergency procedures for first-aid & reporting procedures
3. Emergency arrangements for spillages of hazardous
substances
4. Emergency arrangements for PTWs for example confined
space rescue
(b) (4)
1. To ensure they do not put existing employees at risk by not
knowing the procedures, for example if they take the wrong
direction if an emergency does occur, an employee may try to help
them & put themselves in danger
2. It is a legal requirement to ensure visitors are given information on
all emergency procedures, including fire arrangements, first-aid etc
3. So fire wardens etc know who is accounted for during an
emergency situation & visitors have signed the attendance register
& know where the muster point is
4. So they might not be attempted to fight fires themselves, putting
them at risk, but told of the need to just get out closing fire-doors
behind them, thus preventing the spread of fire
Mar 2012 Q5
(1)
(a) Outline why it is important for an
organisation to develop & maintain
emergency procedures (4)
(b) When developing emergency procedures
Outline why the arrangements for
contacting the emergency & rescue
services needs to be included (4)
1. To ensure that everyone in the workplace knows what to

do in an emergency situation & which route to take &
relevant muster point
2. To ensure the safety of visitors who may be tempted to
attempt to put out a fire
3. To ensure effective communication & liaison with the
emergency service who may have to attend an incident
4. To ensure nominated people such as fire marshals are
suitable trained & competent
(b) (4)
1. It may be a legal requirement for certain sites to
mandatory liaise with these services
2. But, it is also essential for them to be made since the
services will have a key role to play in any response
to an emergency
3. Also, workers need to know who & when to contact
in an emergency & which service
4. The emergency services will be able to help
minimise any harm & damage caused
Mar 2011 Q4, Mar 2013 Q3
(2)
(a) Identify THREE types of emergency in the
workplace that may require the evacuation
of workers (3)
(b) Explain why it is important to practise
workplace emergency procedure/carry out
drills (5)
“ "The answer"” (a) (3)
1.A credible terrorist bomb threat

2.A major spillage of a hazardous chemical
3.Failure of breathing apparatus in a confined space
(b) (5)
1. To meet the need of mandatory legislation which may require it
2. To ensure that everyone in the workplace knows what to do in an
emergency situation & which route to take & relevant muster
point
3. To ensure the safety of visitors who may be tempted to attempt
to put out a fire
4. To ensure effective communication & liaison with the emergency
service who may have to attend an incident
5. To ensure nominated people such as fire marshals are suitable
trained & competent
Nov 2012 Q3
(1)
(a) Identify THREE types of emergency in the
workplace that may require the evacuation
of workers (3)
(b) Outline why it is important to develop
emergency procedures in the workplace (5)
“ "The answer"” (a) (3)
1. A credible terrorist bomb threat

2. A major spillage of a hazardous chemical
3. Failure of breathing apparatus in a confined
space
(b) (5)
1. To meet the needs of mandatory legislation which may
require it to take place
2. To ensure that everyone in the workplace knows what to do
in an emergency situation & which route to take & relevant
muster point
3. To ensure the safety of visitors who may be tempted to
attempt to put out a fire
4. To ensure effective communication & liaison with the
emergency service who may have to attend an incident
5. To ensure nominated people such as fire marshals are
suitable trained & competent
First aid
Dec 2005 Q6, May 2006 Q6, Nov 2006 Q4, Mar 2007
Q6, Nov 2007 Q6, Dec 2007 Q6, Nov 2008 Q11, Dec
2008 Q10, Apr 2009 Q2
(9)
(a) Identify the TWO main functions of first-aid

(2)
(b) Outline the factors to consider when making
an assessment of first-aid provision in the
workplace (6)
1. Firstly, the preservation of life & / or the minimisation of

the consequences of serious injuries before being
removed to hospital
2. Secondly, the treatment of minor injuries that do not
need further medical attention
1. Number & distribution of employees, which may include lone

workers & many employees on multiple sites
2. The hazards & associated risks in the workplace, the higher risk will
require more first-aid provision
3. The distance of the workplace from the nearest emergency hospital,
which if too far may require a fully equipped & staffed medical
centre
4. The need to provide cover for first-aiders on shift work, staff
holidays & sickness
5. The possibility of cooperating with other employers in shared
premises
6. Records of past accidents & ill-health occurrences which may
highlight problem areas
Jun 2013 Q7
(1)
Outline the factors to consider when making an
assessment of first aid provision in a workplace
(8)
"The answer"
1. Number & distribution of employees, which may include lone workers &
many employees on multiple sites
2. The hazards & associated risks in the workplace, the higher risk will require
more first-aid provision
3. The distance of the workplace from the nearest emergency hospital, which
if too far may require a fully equipped & staffed medical centre
4. The need to provide cover for first-aiders on shift work, staff holidays &
sickness
5. The possibility of cooperating /coordinating with other employers in
shared premises
6. Records of past accidents & ill-health occurrences which may highlight
problem areas
7. Legislation that deals with first aid will dictate minimum requirements to
be met
8. Results & feedback from emergency first aid procedures following
accidents on their effectiveness
– Planning
4.1 Importance of planning
4.2 Principles & practice of risk assessment
4.3 General principles of control & hierarchy of risk
reduction measures
4.4 Sources of H&S information
4.5 Safe systems of work
4.5 Permits to work
Risk assessment
Sep 2013 Q4
(1)
(a) Using a workplace example give the
meaning of the term risk (3)
(b) Identify the key stages of a risk assessment
(5)
(a) & (b)
• See later questions!
Sep 2013 Q9
(1)
A university has a security worker who works
alone when all staff & students have left
Outline what needs to be considered in order to
reduce the H&S risks to this lone worker (8)
"The answer"
1. The provision of information instruction & training to deal with emergencies
such as fire, trespassers etc.
2. Security measures such CCTV, lighting for trespassers & violence from
members of the public
3. Means of communication such as a mobile phone, with regular checks to an
external contact
4. The provision of welfare facilities, such as a microwave, a place to rest & eat
the food / drink
5. A psychological profile to ensure the person is happy with the requirements
of lone working
6. A personal alarm which may be connected to the local police station if
attacked or threatened
7. Inspections by members of staff to ensure any hazards have been dealt with
which may affect the worker, for example chemical stored away in
laboratories
8. Perhaps trained in first aid or information on locations of it
May 2013 Q1, Jun 2013 Q1
(2)
(a) Outline the key stages of a risk assessment
process (10)
(b) Explain the criteria which must be met for
an assessment to be suitable & sufficient
(4)
(c) Outline factors that an employer should
take into account when selecting
individuals to assist in carrying out risk
assessments (6)
1. The 1st stage is to consider the activities that are being undertaken
at the workplace & to identify the significant hazards involved
2. This would be followed by the 2nd stage, identification of those
exposed such as operators, maintenance staff, cleaners & visitors
3. Noting in particular groups who may be especially at risk such as
young or disabled workers
4. The next, 3rd stage would involve an evaluation of the risks arising
from the identified hazards
5. Taking into account the likelihood & severity of the harm that could
be caused, the frequency & duration of the exposure of the
employees
"The answer" (a)cont. (10)
1. The measures in existence to control the risks & the need &
scope for a further reduction in risk by the introduction of
additional controls
2. The 4th stage involves recording the significant findings of the
assessment in a written & retrievable form (such as, for
example, the additional preventative measures needed to
control the risks)
3. Communication of the findings to the personnel concerned,
both verbal & written where requires
4. While the final, 5th stage would be concerned with a review &
revision of the assessment at regular intervals
5. More particularly if there are developments in the processes or
activities or changes in legislation which indicate that the
original assessment may no longer be valid
(b) (4)
1. Identify all significant hazards & risks arising from or

connected with the activity to be carried out
2. Identify all the persons at risk including employees,
other workers & members of the public
3. Evaluate the adequacy & effectiveness of existing control
measures & identify other protective measures that may
be required
4. Enable priorities to be set, be appropriate to the nature
of the work & be valid over a reasonable period of time
(c) (6)
1. The individual’s past experience & training in hazard identification & in carrying out
risk assessments
2. Their experience of the process or activity carried out in the workplace & their
knowledge of plant & equipment involved
3. Their ability to understand & interpret regulations, standards & guidance & how it
applies to the organisation
4. Their communication & reporting skills both written & verbal as they will have to
present the risk assessments to workers
5. An awareness of their own limitations & knowing when they are not competent
6. Their attitude towards H&S in general & commitment to the task which is being risk
assessed
Dec 2012 Q5
(1)
A manager is required to carry out a suitable &
sufficient risk assessment on a work activity
(a) Identify possible sources of information
that might help the manager carry out this risk
assessment (5)
(b) Outline what is required in order for a risk
assessment to be suitable & sufficient (3)
1. Accident/ill-health reports, sickness data involving

the activity
2. Risk assessments on the activity
3. Training records associated with the activity
4. Consultation with the workforce on the activity
5. Relevant legislation, acops & guidance to the activity
(b) (3)
1. It should identify all the significant hazards &

reduces risk to an acceptable level by implementing
appropriate control measures
2. It should prioritise those risk which pose more
danger than the lesser risks
3. It should be carried out by competent persons,
preferably as part of a team which consists of
managers, supervisors, workers etc
Dec 2011 Q8, Feb 2014 Q6
(1)
(a) Give the meaning of the term hazard (2)
(b) Give the meaning of the term risk (2)
(c) Outline reasons why young persons may
be at higher risk of injury in a workplace
(4)
1. A hazard is something with the potential to cause harm
or loss
2. For an example a trailing cable
(b) (2)
1. Risk is the likelihood/probability of coming into

contact with the hazard, also the resultant
outcome/severity of that coming together
2. For example the outcome of tripping over a cable
(c) (4)
1. Lack of perception of risk or of ability to avoid risk because of
limited knowledge, experience & / or lack of training
2. The individual’s stage of physical/psychological development
which can make them more prone to injury from some
hazards in the workplace, such as ionising radiation
3. The tendency of young persons to take risks through bravado
& lack of maturity
4. The tendency of young people to respond to peer group
pressure & want to be seen to fit in with the norm of the
group
June 2012 Q7
(1)
A worker in a busy kitchen has notified her
employer that she is pregnant. Outline the
factors that the employer should consider when
undertaking a specific risk assessment for this
worker (8)
"The answer"
1. The nature of the task to be performed such as the duration & variety of the
work
2. Including any shift patterns, night working & the provision of adequate rest
breaks
3. The involvement of manual handling such as in lifting heavy cooking utensils
4. Ergonomic issues related to prolonged standing or the involvement of awkward
body movements
5. The workers possible exposure to chemicals such as those used for cleaning
utensils
6. Additionally the possible effects of the environment in the kitchen where there
would inevitably be exposure to heat & noise
7. Also the possibility of slipping on wet floors / spilt food etc would have to be
assessed
8. It may be that the worker my be moved to a less demanding job, such as office
work for the rest of the term of her pregnancy, if the risks were assessed as
being too high
Mar 2012 Q8, Non 2013 Q11
(2)
(a) Give the meaning of the terms
(i) Hazard (2)
(ii) Risk (2)
(b) Outline how an organisation might decide
whether a risk is acceptable (4)
1. A hazard is something with the potential to cause

harm or loss
(ii) (2)
2. For example what would be the outcome after
tripping over a cable, injury or no loss
(b) (4)
1. You would need to consider the likelihood of it

occurring & its impact upon the number of people
affected
2. Also, the likely outcome in terms of enforcement
measures that would be taken if this was not
3. The internal influences such as those arising from
worker feedback & the views of the safety
committee
4. Finally, the influence exerted by external bodies
such as clients & the organisation insurers
Jan 2013 Q1, Mar 2012 Q1
(2)
(a) Give the meaning of the term hazard AND give
an example of a workplace hazard (3)
(b) Give the meaning of the term risk AND give an
example of a workplace risk (3)
(c) Outline the key stages of the risk assessment
process, AND identify the issues that would need
to be considered at EACH stage (10)
(d) Outline the criteria which must be met for the

harm or loss
2. For example a trailing cable
3. A hazard can be physical, chemical, ergonomic,
psychological or biological in nature
(b) (3)
contact with the hazard
2. Also the resultant outcome/severity of that coming
together
3. For example if someone tripped over a trailing cable,
how serious would the injury be
(b) (10)
3. Noting in particular groups who may be especially at risk such as
from the identified hazards
5. Taking into account the likelihood & severity of the harm that
could be caused, the frequency & duration of the exposure of the
employees
(b) cont. (10)
1. The measures in existence to control the risks & the need & scope
for a further reduction in risk by the introduction of additional
controls
assessment in a written & retrievable form (such as, for example,
the additional preventative measures needed to control the risks)
3. Communication of the findings to the personnel concerned, both
verbal & written where requires
5. More particularly if there are developments in the processes or
activities or changes in legislation which indicate that the original
assessment may no longer be valid
(c) (4)
1. Identify all significant hazards & risks arising from or

connected with the activity to be carried out
2. Identify all the persons at risk including employees,
other workers & members of the public
3. Evaluate the adequacy & effectiveness of existing
control measures & identify other protective measures
that may be required
4. Enable priorities to be set, be appropriate to the nature
of the work & be valid over a reasonable period of time
Nov 2012 Q11, June 2012 Q6, Mar
2013 Q11
(3)
(a) Identify the key stages of a workplace risk
assessment (5)
(b) Outline THREE reasons for reviewing a
risk assessment (3)
1. To identify the hazards involved which are not controlled
to an acceptable standard
2. The number & types of people likely to be exposed
3. This was followed by an evaluation of the risk looking at
the likelihood & potential severity of harm & assessing the
adequacy of the existing control measures
4. The results of the assessment would need to be recorded
& communicated to employees
5. Reviewing the risk assessment if there are any significant
changes to which it related
(b) (3)
1. The introduction of new legislation that
affects the organisation that may require
certain risks to be reduced
2. Changes to the layout of the workplace, such
as new road layouts or building works
3. The introduction of new equipment which
may require a more in depth risk assessment
Sep 2010 Q1, Oct 2010 Q1, Apr 2011 Q1
(3)
With respect to undertaking general risk assessments on
activities within a workplace
(a) Outline the key stages of the risk

assessment process, identifying the issues
that would need to be considered at EACH stage (10)
(b) Explain the criteria which must be met for the
(c) Outline the factors that the employer should take
into account when selecting individuals to assist in carrying
out the required risk assessment (6)
& noting in particular groups who may be especially at risk such as
from the identified hazards, taking into account the likelihood &
severity of the harm that could be caused
4. The frequency & duration of the exposure of the employees, the
measures in existence to control the risks
5. The need & scope for a further reduction in risk by the
introduction of additional controls
assessment in a written & retrievable form (such as, for
example, the additional preventative measures needed to
control the risks) & communication of the findings to the
personnel concerned
3. Or more particularly if there are developments in the
processes or activities or changes in legislation which indicate
that the original assessment may no longer be valid
(b) (4)
1. Identify all significant hazards & risks arising from or connected

with the activity to be carried out
2. Identify all the persons at risk including employees, other
workers & members of the public
3. Evaluate the adequacy & effectiveness of existing control
measures & identify other protective measures that may be
required
4. Enable priorities to be set, be appropriate to the nature of the
work & be valid over a reasonable period of time
(b) (6)
1. The individual’s past experience & training in hazard
identification & in carrying out risk assessments
2. Their experience of the process or activity carried out in the
workplace & their knowledge of plant & equipment
involved
3. Their ability to understand & interpret regulations,
standards & guidance
4. Their communication & reporting skills
5. An awareness of their own limitations
6. And their attitude & commitment to the task
Sep 2010 Q8
(1)
(a) Give the meaning of the term hazard (2)

(b) Give the meaning of the term risk (2)
(c) Give FOUR ways to identify hazards in the
workplace (4)

harm or loss
(b) (2)
1. Risk is the likelihood / probability of coming into

2. For example if tripping over a cable would cause a
broken leg or no loss
(c) (4)
1. H&S Inspections of the workplace

2. H&S audits of the workplace
3. Job safety analysis as part of a safe system of work
4. Relevant legislation & accompanying guidance
Sep 2010 Q9
(1)
Identify the hazards that could be present
during the demolition of a hotel building (8)
"The answer"
1. Falls from a height of people & objects
2. Falling debris & premature collapse
3. Use of explosives which could cause showering of materials on
personnel
4. Contact with noise from & heavy plant & equipment
5. Dust, possibly including asbestos when debris is falling & hitting
the ground
6. The possible presence of services such as electricity, gas & water
7. Noise from plant & equipment
8. Possible contact with sharp objects such as glass
Nov 2006 Q9, Nov 2008 Q8, Jan 2013
Q8, Sep 2010 Q10
(4)
(a) Explain the meaning of the term hazard (2)
(b) Outline the main hazards associated with
demolition work (6)
1. A hazard is something with the potential to cause harm

or loss to an individual or property, plant & equipment
in an organisation
2. For example a trailing cable which someone could trip
over & injure themselves, or damage to the cable itself
(b) (6)
1. Falls from a height of people & objects, if the work involves hand
demolition from top to bottom
2. Falling debris & premature collapse caused by load bearing
structures being demolished
3. Use of explosives which could cause showering of materials on
personnel if exclusion zones/distances are not adequate
4. Contact with noise from & heavy plant & equipment removing
materials from the site
5. Dust, possibly including asbestos when debris is falling & hitting
the ground, causing large clouds
6. The possible presence of services such as electricity, gas & water
if they are not correctly identified during demolition
Mar 2006 Q11, Nov 2006 Q11, Jun 2007 Q11,
May 2008 Q11, Dec 2008 Q8, Apr 2009 Q11,
Mar 2012 Q4, Mar 2011, Oct 2013 Q11
(10)
Identify the factors to be considered to ensure the
health & safety of persons who are required to
work on their own away from the workplace (8)
"The answer"
1. The type of work to be done & its attendant hazards & risks
2. The equipment to be used & its hazards
3. The work environment, extremes of temperature etc
4. The control measures in place for H&S
5. The competence & suitability of the persons involved
6. The methods of communication with the home base
7. Emergency & first-aid procedures in general
8. The provision of adequate welfare facilities
Aug 2006 Q4, Nov 2008 Q6
(2)
(a) Explain, using an example, the meaning of the

term risk (3)
(b) Outline the content of a training course for staff
who are required to assist in carrying out risk
assessments (5)
1. If a hazard (something with the potential to cause harm to a person

or loss to plant / equipment / materials) in the workplace exists
2. Such as a trailing cable which people can trip over & be injured or
fall on & damage equipment
3. Then risk would be the likelihood that someone would trip over the
cable & if they did what would be the severity or consequences of
the injury or loss
(b) (5)
1. The legal requirements with respect to risk assessment to show the

importance of risk assessment
2. The process of identifying hazards & evaluating risks to an acceptable
standard & the identification & selection of appropriate control measures
3. Assessing sources of information such as standards/guidance & in-house
information including accident records
4. Report writing skills which give clear concise information to employees on
the findings of the risk assessment
5. The importance of good communication skills & also knowing their own
limitations & when to ask for more competent advice
Mar 2007 Q9
(1)

term risk (3)
(b) Outline the factors that should be
considered when selecting individuals to
assist in carrying out risk assessments in the
workplace (5)
See first part of the lat question

1. The ability to interpret legal requirements with respect to risk assessment to show
the importance of risk assessment
2. The ability to identify hazards & assess risks & selection of appropriate control
measures
3. The ability to be aware of their individual’s own limitations & the occasions when
specialist assistance might be required
4. The ability to assess sources of information such as standards/guidance & in-
house information including accident records
5. Good report writing skills which give clear concise information to employees on
the findings of the risk assessment
Oct 2010 Q11, Apr 2011
(2)
Identify EIGHT H&S hazards relevant to a long

distance delivery driver (8)
"The answer"
Job factors
1. Potential for violence from members of the public or other drivers if involved in a near miss or
accident
2. Extreme road conditions such as snow, ice, wind with the potential for accidents
Individual factors
1. Fatigue with the potential for accidents after driving for long periods
2. Physiological factors of working alone could also have the potential to cause stress
Vehicle
1. Poor ergonomics of the cab with the potential for WRULDs, such as back pain, strains to muscles
2. Potential for fall from vehicle while accessing & egressing the cab of the vehicle or loading &
unloading operations
The load
1. If hazardous materials being carried, the potential for fume inhalation, skin damage etc
2. Manual handling hazard if there are heavy loads to carry & lifting devices have not been
provided
Dec 2005 Q2, May 2006 Q2, Mar 2007
Q2, Dec 2007 Q2, Jul 2008 Q11, Nov
2008 Q10
(6)
Outline the factors to consider when assessing the
risks to a long distance delivery driver (8)
"The answer"
Job factors
1. The duration of the journey including the need for rest breaks & not exceeding
daily travel hours allowed
2. The demands of the route (complexity, road conditions, etc) traffic congestion
Individual factors
1. The physical & psychological capabilities of the driver to cope with the demands of
the job
2. The level of training provided, including first aid procedures, safe places to park
Vehicle
1. Maintenance & breakdown provision, including signs etc
2. The design & layout of the cab is there good ergonomics
The load
1. The means of handling materials that may be hazardous on the vehicle
2. The emergency procedures in place for first aid, fires etc & the provision of first aid
kits & fire extinguishers
3.
Dec 2005 Q8, May 2006 Q8, Mar 2007
Q8, Nov 2007 Q8, Dec 2007 Q8, Oct
2012
(6)
term Risk (3)
(b) Outline the key stages of a general risk

assessment (5)
Part a See Previous Slides

1. To identify the hazards involved which are not controlled to an acceptable
standard
2. The number & types of people likely to be exposed, especially those personnel
more at risk such as pregnant & young workers
3. This was followed by an evaluation of the risk looking at the likelihood & potential
severity of harm & assessing the adequacy of the existing control measures
4. The results of the assessment would need to be recorded & communicated to
employees to which it related
5. Reviewing the risk assessment if there are any significant changes to which it
related
• 4.3 General principles of control & hierarchy
of risk reduction measures
• 4.4 Sources of H&S information
• 4.5 Safe systems of work
• 4.5 Permits to work
Principles of control / sources of H&S information /
Safe systems of work / PTWs
Sep 2013 Q11, Nov 2013 Q5
(2)
Identify EIGHT sources of information that
might be consulted when developing a safe
system of work (8)
• Risk assessments
• Training records
• Manufacturers instructions
• The employees involved in the work / task
• Existing safe systems of work
• Contents of existing PTWs
• Accident / ill heath records
• Legislation on confined spaces
Dec 2012 Q10,Oct 2013 Q2
(2)
(a) Give the meaning of the term safe system
of work (2)
(b) Outline what is meant by the following
types of controls within a safe system of
work AND give a practical example for
EACH
(i) Technical (2)
(ii) Behavioural (2)
(iii) Procedural (2)
1. A method of working which systematically identifies all the

hazards & risks within an activity & ensure control measures
are put in place to reduce these risks to a acceptable level
2. It is also a formal written procedure with instructions to the
workforce on how to follow the safety system correctly
(b) (6)
(i)
1. Technical controls would be the most preferred type of the three types of control
& relate to the workplace & the job.
2. This would include such things as machine guards to protect persons from any
moving parts
(ii)
1. Procedural relates to the systems developed within the organisation in the form
of instructions
2. For example policies & procedures & emergency plans
(iii)
1. Behavioural controls relate to the individual & their interaction with the
workplace
2. An example would be the amount of information, instruction, training &
supervision given
Mar 2013 Q8
(1)
(a) Identify TWO examples of a confined
space that may be found in a workplace
(2)
(b) Outline the main factors to consider when
preparing a safe system of work for entry
into a confined space (6)
1. An open trench on a construction site

2. A manhole drain shaft
(b) (6)
1. There would need to be a formal PTW as part appropriately authorised, as part of the
safe system of work, which would identify the competent persons to be involved in the
activity
2. Emergency procedures would have to be in place which might include fire-fighting
equipment, a suitable winching system to recover people in an emergency
3. This may also include appropriate means of contact with the emergency services such
as ambulance, fire & police
4. There must also be good means of communication between the persons in the
confined space & those on standby outside
5. Means of checking the atmosphere before & during entry to ensure there are no
flammable, toxic gases or lack of oxygen & suitable means of purging the atmosphere
6. If this is not possible there may be a need for full breathing apparatus which must have
been checked before use
Dec 2012 Q 1
(1)
(a) Identify FOUR examples of a confined space
that may be found in a workplace (4)
(b) Outline the typical content of a safe system
of work for entry into a confined space (10)
(c) Outline the emergency arrangements that
might be required for entry into a confined
space (6)
1. An open trench on a construction site

2. A sewage pipe
3. A tank containing fuel
4. A manhole drain
(b) (10)
1. There would need to be a formal PTW as part appropriately authorised, as part of

the safe system of work, which would identify the competent persons to be
involved in the activity
2. The identification of the confined space to be worked in, which may require
isolation from adjacent/services to prevent ingress of any danger from them.
3. Emergency procedures would have to be in place which might include fire-fighting
equipment, a suitable winching system to recover people in an emergency.
4. This may also include appropriate means of contact with the emergency services
such as fire / police / ambulance(b)
(b) cont. (10)
1. The availability of other emergency equipment such as resuscitation aids
2. Provision of first aiders with the appropriate equipment
3. There must also be good means of communication between the persons
in the confined space & those on standby outside
4. Means of checking the atmosphere before & during entry to ensure there
are no flammable, toxic gases or lack of oxygen & suitable means of
purging the atmosphere
5. If this is not possible there may be a need for full breathing apparatus
with associated training provided
(c) (6)
1. The provision of suitable & maintained fire fighting equipment in case of
a fire or explosion with a stand by fire team at the location who are
competent
2. Emergency resuscitation equipment for persons who have been
overcome by heat / exhaustion or lack of oxygen in a confined space
3. Liaison with the local emergency services such as police, ambulance &
fire if an emergency cannot be dealt with the resources provided on site,
where there may be multiple persons injured etc
4. This may include a pre determined response plant to cover any likely
emergency situation
5. Procedures for evacuation of persons in a confined space if they are
overcome by fumes or a lack of oxygen
6. Which will include safety harnesses, tripod / lifting equipment etc
Mar 2010 Q6
(1)
An organisation is introducing a new work
activity that requires a safe system of work
Outline
(a) Why it is important to involve workers in
the development of a safe system of work (4)
(b) Why it is important for safe systems of
work to have written procedures (4)
1. Because of their knowledge of the particular working environment involved &

what will work in practice
2. Additionally, their involvement will establish their ownership of the system
3. Will also help encourage then to use & follow it once it has been finalised &
introduced
4. Finally, their involvement will emphasise management’s commitment to H&S &
help raise its profile within the organisation
1. The procedures may contain complex information that will need to be

consulted on more than one occasion to ensure the correct sequence of
operations is followed
2. Additionally, different people will need to be aware of the procedures &
it is preferable to have them written down rather than pass them on by
word of mouth
3. A written document will also be needed for audit purposes & could be
used as evidence in defending an enforcement action or civil claim
4. It may well be part of an organisation’s quality assurance procedures / or
accredited H&S management system
Jan 2013 Q8, Mar 2010 Q6, May 2013
Q8
(3)
Identify FOUR categories of workplace safety signs
AND give an example of EACH (8)
“"The answer"
1. Prohibition for example no smoking
2. Which are circular in shape with a red circle with a red bar across it with
a cigarette depicted in black
3. Mandatory for example wearing of ear defenders
4. Which are circular with a blue background with a white picture of ear
muffs
5. Hazard warning signs for example electrical hazard
6. Which are triangular in shape with a yellow background with a black zig
zag line depicting electricity
7. Safe condition sign for example a fire exit
8. Which are rectangular in shape with a green background with a white
door & arrow & a running person
Nov 2012 Q8, Sep 2011 Q2,
(2)
(a) Identify TWO examples of confined spaces that
may be found within a workplace (2)
(b) Describe the main features when preparing a
safe system of work for entry into a confined space
(6)
1. An underground sewer pipe

2. A lift shaft in a hotel
(b) (6)
1. Isolating services both mechanically & electrically to prevent un-
authorised switch on by employees not involved in the PTW , which will
include signage
2. The removal of any contaminants by atmospheric purging to ensure a
fresh supply of air is maintained during the duration of the work by
constant air monitoring
3. Pre-entry & ongoing atmospheric testing to ensure there are no
flammable, toxic materials or asphyxiates present
4. Means of communication between personnel in the confined space &
other employees outside which may be 2 way radio or just talking on a
regular basis to confirm that the persons are ok
5. Use of respiratory & other PPE, etc if there are contaminants present &
pre-use checks to be carried out
6. The emergency arrangements & equipment to be provided such as safety
lines, support staff, resuscitation & other first-aid equipment
Oct 2010 Q6, Apr 2011 Q6, Jan 2013 Q4,
May 2013 Q4, June 2013 Q2, Jun 2013 Q9
(5)
(a) Give the meaning of the term permit to
work (PTW) (2)
(b) Identify THREE types of work that may

require a PTW system, AND give the reasons in
EACH case (6)
1. A PTW is part of a formal mechanism as part of a safe system of

work, for controlling high risk activities such as working at height
2. Which gives signed authority from a senior person for the activity to
take place such as an engineer
(b) (6)
1. Entry into confined spaces as this work could involve the presence of toxic
substances or the lack of oxygen
2. There will therefore be a need for emergency requirements, including a rescue
team
3. Hot work as this will involve materials giving off heat, sparks which could cause a
fire
4. The permit will ensure that the area will only be declared safe after all metalwork
has cooled & the area checked
5. Working at height where risks from falling will be present, there will be a need for
safe access & egress & the use of safety harnesses
6. Requirements for cordoning off the area below to prevent injury to other
employees or members of the public
Nov 2006 Q9, Nov 2013 Q8
(2)
(a) Explain the meaning of the term permit to

work (PTW) (2)
(b) Outline the specific details that should be
included in a PTW for entry into a confined
space (6)
1. A PTW is part of a formal mechanism of written procedure as part of a safe system

of work, for controlling high risk activities such as working at height
2. Which gives signed authority by a senior person within an organization for the
activity to take place, with strictly controlled parameters
(b) (6)
1. Isolating services both mechanically & electrically to prevent unauthorized switch

on by employees not involved in the PTW
2. The removal of any contaminants by atmospheric purging to ensure a fresh supply
of air is maintained during the duration of the work
3. Pre-entry & ongoing atmospheric testing to ensure there are no flammable, toxic
materials or asphyxiates present
4. Means of communication between personnel in the confined space & other
employees outside
5. Use of respiratory & other PPE, etc) if there are contaminants present or a lack of
oxygen
6. The emergency arrangements & equipment to be provided such as safety lines,
support staff, resuscitation & other first-aid equipment
Nov 2006 Q1, June 2012 Q1
(2)
(a) Define the term permit to work (PTW) system

(2)
(b) Outline the key elements of a PTW (12)
(c) Outline THREE types of work situation that might
require a PTW system, giving reasons in EACH case
(6)
1. A PTW is part of a formal mechanism as part of a safe system of work, for

controlling high risk activities such as working at height
2. Which gives signed authority from a senior person for the activity to take place
such as an engineer
(b) (12)
1. Authorisation for the work to be carried out by a specialist or PTW
controller for the site depending upon the size of the organisation
2. A description of the task to be performed including the exact
location, what competent persons will be involved in the task
3. An indication of the duration of the validity of the permit, which will
include start & finish times
4. It should have a unique reference number to identify it & may have
to be cross-referenced to another permit, if they are related
5. The isolations that need to be made & the additional precautions
required, including requirements for PPE to be worn
(b)cont. (12)
1. Cordoning off the area to prevent unwanted unauthorised access with a
copy of the permit posted to warn people
2. The requirements for controlling specific hazards & risks, which may
include emergency procedures for fire, safe evacuation of personnel (e.g.
for confined spaces)
3. Details & signature of the persons authorising the work, such as chief
electrical / mechanical engineer
4. An acknowledgement of acceptance by the supervisor in charge of the
team of employees carrying out the task
5. The employee would then need to indicate on the permit that the work
has been completed & the area made safe in order for the permit to be
cancelled
(c) (3)
1. Entry into confined spaces as this work could involve the presence of toxic
substances or the lack of oxygen
2. There will be a need for emergency requirements
3. Hot work as this will involve materials giving off heat, sparks which could be a
source of ignition
4. The permit will ensure that the area will only be declared safe after all metalwork
has cooled & the area checked
5. Working at height where risks from falling will be present
6. There will be a need for safe access & egress & the use of safety harnesses,
requirements for cordoning off the area below to prevent injury to other
employees or members of the public
Dec 2005 Q2, May 2006 Q2, Nov 2006
Q2, Jun 2007 Q2, May 2008 Q2, Jul
2008 Q2, Feb 2014 Q4
(7)
Outline the factors that should be considered when
developing a safe system of work (8)
"The answer"
1. S election & naming of the specific activity / activities to be risk assessed
2. R ecord each stage in the task which may be between 10 to 15 & identify the
hazards & associated risks
3. E valuation of the risks by taking into account the people involved (number, skills,
etc) the equipment & materials used
4. The work methods & the environment in which the work is undertaken
5. Particular legal requirements, standards & other information that may be relevant
& any existing control measures
6. D evelop a written safe system of work accounting for the control of the hazards &
risks identified at each stage
7. I mplement the system in the form of job safety instructions & consult with all
involved employees
8. M onitor the system to ensure it remains suitable & sufficient & review if there
are any significant changes to the task which it relates
Jun 2013 Q10
(1)
(a) Identify THREE different types of
respiratory protective equipment (RPE)
(3)
(b) Outline factors to consider when selecting
RPE
(5)
1. Full face mask respirator

2. Ori nasal respirator half face
3. Full breathing self contained breathing apparatus
(b) (5)
1. The type of airborne substance to be protected against, such as dusts,

gases, vapours, fibres etc
2. If using filter canisters, to ensure the correct selection of the filter for a
particular substance, also the fact they only have a shelf life of 6 months
3. CE marking of the RPE to ensure minimum standards of protection &
quality of it
4. Consultation with the workforce to ensure a selection of RPE can be
given to them to test to see which they prefer
5. The Approved protection factors will need to be considered to ensure it
reduces the wearers, exposure to below the work exposure limits
Jun 2013 Q11
(1)
Identify the general principles of prevention
that can be used to reduce the risk of injury
from hazards in the workplace (8)
"The answer" (8)
1. This is a preferred hierarch of controls, starting from the most effective to the
least effective when producing a safe system of work
2. The best thing to do with a hazard is to eliminate it
3. The next best thing is to reduce the risk from the hazard
4. The next best thing to do is to isolate the hazard, for example enclosing a
hazardous substance in an extraction booth
5. The next best thing to do is to control the risk from a hazard
6. The next best thing to do is to provide PPE
7. The provision of instruction, training, information & supervision for employees
8. Engineering / workplace controls are more effective then person controls
Oct 2010 Q10, Apr 2011 Q10, Oct
2012, Dec 2011 Q5, Sep 2013 Q9
(5)
Outline, with examples, the standard hierarchy that

should be applied with respect to controlling health
& safety risks in the workplace (8)
"The answer" (8)
1. This is a preferred hierarch of controls, starting from the most effective to the
least effective when producing a safe system of work
2. The best thing to do with a hazard is to eliminate it, for example replace a
hazardous substance with a non or less hazardous substance
3. For example using a water based paint instead of a solvent based paint
4. The next best thing is to reduce the risk from the hazard
5. For example reducing the amount of solvent being used by using a smaller
container with a spill proof lid
7. The next best thing to do is to control the risk from a hazard, for example by LEV
8. The next best thing to do is to provide PPE, such as a face mask or respirator & the
provision of instruction, training, information & supervision for employees
Mar 2007 Q8 & Sep 2010 Q5, Sep 2011Q 10,
Mar 2010 Q4, Sep 2013 Q11
(5)
With respect to the management of risk within the
workplace
(a) Explain the meaning of the term hierarchy of
control (2)
(b) Outline, with examples, the standard hierarchy
that should be applied with respect to controlling
health & safety risks in the workplace (6)
1. When implementing control measures in the workplace, the

preferred method is to eliminate the hazard all together, if this is not
possible then less preferred methods of control will be used, but will
not be as effective
2. A safe system of work will include a range of control measures at
different levels in the hierarchy of control
(b) (6)
1. The best thing to do with a hazard is to eliminate it, for example replace a
hazardous substance with a non-hazardous substance, for example using a water
based paint instead of a solvent based paint
2. The next best thing is to reduce the risk from the hazard, for example reducing the
amount of solvent being used by using a smaller container with a spill proof lid
4. The next best thing to do is to control the risk from a hazard, for example by LEV
5. The next best thing to do is to provide PPE
6. Finally, the provision of instruction, training, information & supervision for
employees
Mar 2006 Q3, Nov 2006 Q3, Jun 2007 Q3, May
2008 Q3, Jul 2008 Q3, Dec 2008 Q2, Apr 2009
Q3, Oct 2012,Mar 2011 Q9, Feb 2014 Q10
(10)
Explain why personal protective equipment (PPE)

should be considered as a last resort in the control
of occupational health hazards (8)
"The answer"
1. The PPE may fail to danger, for example a crack in a pair of ear defenders may not
be apparent & the person could be unwillingly exposed to high levels of noise
2. Poor selection, especially if employees not included in the procurement process
3. Poor fit, especially if the employee has not been trained on how to use the PPE
4. Incompatibility with other types of PPE, for example having to wear a safety
helmet, ear defenders & goggles, may interfere with each other
5. Contamination through incorrect storage or not cleaning after & before use which
can cause hygiene problems
6. Misuse, including incorrect storage, lack of maintenance or non-use by employees
7. In addition, PPE is likely to be uncomfortable & relies for its effectiveness on a
conscious action by the user
8. In certain circumstances, its use can actually create additional risks for instance,
warning sounds might be masked by hearing protection
Sep 2013 Q7
(1)
Due to its limitations PPE should only be
considered after other control measures
Outline the limitations of using PPE (8)
See last Question!
– Measuring, Audit & Review
5.1 Active & reactive monitoring

5.2 H&S auditing
5.3 Investigating accidents
5.4 Recording & reporting incidents
5.5 Review of H&S performance
5.1 Reactive Monitoring
Nov 2013 Q1
(1)
(a) Identify possible consequences to workers
injured in an accident at work (4)
(b) Identify possible costs to an organisation
resulting from an accident at work (10)
(c) Outline actions management may take in
order to prevent similar accidents (6)
"The answer"” (a) (4)
1. Physical injuries to their body

2. Financial losses due to no sick pay
3. Psychological problems such as stress
4. Being blamed for the accident
(b) (10)
1. Fines & prosecutions from enforcement authorities
2. Claims for compensation
3. First aid costs
4. Lost time investigating the accident
5. Overtime payments to replace injured worker
6. Loss of production
7. Sickness payments
8. Training of replacement employee
9. Damage to plant & equipment
10. Hospital medical costs
(c) (6)
1. A thorough investigation into the accident to identify the immediate &
underlying causes to prevent an re occurrence
2. Initially by cordoning off the area to prevent contamination by people
3. Interviewing witnesses immediately at the scene of the accident
4. Taking photographs & measurements of the scene
5. Looking at relevant H&S records such as training of employees,
maintenance schedules of machinery
6. From the underlying causes, ensuring improvements in risk assessments,
safe systems of work etc
7. Communication of the findings to all relevant workers within the
organisation
8. By producing statistics which include this accident to help identify trends
Sep 2013 Q5, Oct 2013 Q4
(2)
Outline the benefits to an employer of
conducting accident investigations (8)
"The answer"
1. The main benefit is to prevent any similar occurrence which may cause
injuries or losses to the organisation
2. It will also will help ensure compliance with legislation that requires the
investigation & reporting of accidents
3. It will help mitigation from prosecution or civil claims for compensation,
as records will have to be kept
4. Investigation can also help in the review of risk assessments, which may
not have taken some hazards into consideration
5. It helps to show senior management commitment to the workforce,
resulting in motivating workers to behave more safely
6. Statistics can be produced from the investigations, which can be used to
show any trends or hot spots
7. These statistics can also be useful for benchmarking between
departments within an organisation, or with external companies of
similar industry
8. Finally the recommendations from the investigations will help to improve
the overall standard of H&S within the organisation
Sep 2011 Q8
(1)
A visitor to a worksite has been injured when
they were struck by a moving vehicle
(a) Explain possible immediate causes of this
accident (4)
(b) Explain possible underlying/root causes of
this accident (4)
1. The lack of attention paid by both the visitor & the driver of the vehicles, so the
pedestrian was unaware of the presence of the FLT or/& vice versa
2. A breach of site rules such as speeding due to pressure of work or wanting to get
the task completed
3. The driver using a mobile phone while driving, causing his attention to be
distracted for a time
4. A failure of the visitor to wear high visibility clothing & follow the safe pedestrian
routes
(b) (4)
1. Absence of procedures to control visitors, including lack of

induction training, supervision, information & instruction
2. The lack of adequate arrangements for the separation of
pedestrians & vehicles using pavements, barriers etc
3. Either the absence of site rules for controlling vehicle
direction such as a one way system
4. A poor standard of driver training & a failure to provide PPE
such as high visibility clothing for visitors
Jun 2012 Q10
(1)
Identify the content that could be included in an
accident reporting training course for all workers
within an organisation (8)
"The answer"
1. Workers would have to be given a definition of an accident & the requirements for
reporting it whether to meet legal requirements or national standards
2. To advise them of the reasons & benefits for reporting the incident such as to
begin an investigation as soon as possible with the aim of preventing a recurrence
3. Information would have to be provided on the procedures for reporting such as on
a form or on line
4. The information which should be provided on the form
5. The person to whom the incident should be reported
6. The consequences of failing to report an accident should be explained
7. But, emphasis would have to be given to the fact that a no blame culture would be
adopted
8. Also training on the usefulness in producing reports to ensure future improvement
in overall arrangements in place for H&S
Jan 2013 Q7, Mar 2011 Q6, May 2013 Q7
(3)
A serious accident has occurred
During the investigation it is found that an
inspection of the work site had taken place before
the accident
Outline possible reasons why the inspection did

not lead to an unsafe situation being corrected (8)
"The answer"
1. Perhaps the person carrying out the inspection was not competent enough or had
enough experience
2. A lack of senior management commitment in ensuring corrective action was
completed with timescales
3. Or the person responsible for carrying out the corrective action was too busy or
could not be bothered
4. Perhaps inspections had become too routine & a lack of management
commitment or feedback on actions
5. A general decline in the H&S culture of the organisation where production takes
priority
6. There may be an absence of reporting procedures for near misses & hazards
7. There be a lack of understanding of the procedures or lack of training concerning
inspections
8. There may be a blame culture within the organisation, as a result people may not
report any shortcomings due to fear of being blamed
Mar 2013 Q6
(1)
Outline reasons why it is important for an
organisation to investigate near misses (8)
"The answer"
1. Near misses are an indication of weaknesses in management systems in place for
H&S
2. This can also help in the review of risk assessments, which may not have taken
some hazards into consideration
3. They can help identify hazards in the workplace before they cause accidents, so
they are an early warning sign of danger
4. Accidents may be infrequent within in an organisation, making it difficult to
produce meaningful statistical information which can show trends
5. Where as there will be many near misses for every major injury, which can be used
to identify trends more easily
6. It is a legal requirement to identify some types of near misses which have the
potential to cause a serious injury
7. It will show senior management commitment towards H&S & help improve
workers morale
8. The ratio of near misses to minor accidents & major injuries can be shown in the
form of an accident pyramid first produced by Hienrich & later modified by Frank
Bird & Loftus which can be used to benchmark against other organistions
Nov 2012 Q6, Mar 2010 Q7
(2)
A machine has leaked hot liquid into a work area
No one has been injured
Outline reasons why it is important for an
organisation to investigate near-miss incidents (8)
"The answer"
1. This might allow preventive action to be taken before something more serious
occurs in the workplace
2. It is therefore a more proactive, up stream method than just investigating
accidents
3. It also gives the right message that all failures are taken seriously by the employer
& not just those that lead to injury
4. It also shows senior management commitment to improving H&S in general
5. Additionally , it is generally accepted that near-misses far outnumber incidents
resulting in injury
6. This can then therefore produce more data from which a greater understanding of
the deficiencies in existing management systems
7. For example, such as risk assessments & safe systems of work can be identified &
rectified
8. Numerous studies have been carried out on the ration between near-misses,
minor injuries & major injuries, which can be shown in the form of a pyramid
Heinrich’s or Bird’s models being examples
Oct 2010 Q9, Apr 2011 Q9
(2)
An organisation has had an increase in the number
of manual handling accidents & associated ill-health
Identify sources of information that may be
available to help reduce the risks to the workers
(8)
INTERNAL
1. Findings of manual handling risk assessments
2. Past accident statistics on manual handling injuries
3. Interviews with workers involved in the tasks to see if there have been
any significant changes in the work process
4. The H&S department or safety representatives
EXTERNAL
1. World health organisation or ILO data on manual handling

2. Professional ergonomists or relevant consultants
3. Bench marking with accident statistics from similar sectors of industry or
commerce
4. Appropriate legislation & guidance on manual handling
Oct 2010 Q8, Apr 2011 Q8
(2)
Outline the initial actions that should be taken

following a major injury accident at work (8)
"The answer"
1. Call for help, attending to the victim & administer first aid until removal to
hospital, ensuring this is safe to do so
2. Which may require isolation of power supplies if the person has suffered
an electric shock
3. Informing the next of kin by the most appropriate way, as they will wish to
meet the injured person at hospital
4. Subsequent actions that are required to satisfy statutory requirements to
report the accident to the local enforcing authority as they may wish to
come & investigate
5. Informing management & the safety representative
6. Cordon off the area to prevent contamination of the scene
7. Take initial photographs of scene & identify key witnesses
8. Start the initial investigation into the causes of the accident
Nov 2006 Q5, Mar 2007 Q10, Nov 2008
Q4, Mar 2011 Q8, Jun 2013 Q3, Jun
2013 Q6, Oct 2013 Q9
(7)
Outline the immediate & longer term actions that

should be taken following a serious injury at work
(8)
"The answer"
IMMEDIATE
1. Call for help, attending to the victim & administer first aid until removal to
hospital, ensuring this is safe to do so, which may require isolation of power
supplies if the person has suffered an electric shock
2. Informing the next of kin by the most appropriate way, as they will wish to meet
the injured person at hospital
3. Subsequent actions that are required to satisfy statutory requirements to report
the accident to the local enforcing authority as they may wish to come &
investigate
LONGER TERM
1. Longer term actions will therefore include identifying witnesses
2. Undertaking an investigation & to find the immediate causes & root causes
3. On the basis of the findings, reviewing work processes
4. Make improvements to the risk assessment process, training requirements &
overall management system
Aug Q6, Nov 2006 Q6, Sep 2010 Q4, Oct 2012,
Jan 2013, Mar 2012 Q10, May 2013 Q9, Sep
2013 Q8, Feb 2014 Q9
(8)
(a) Identify FOUR reasons why accidents should be

reported & recorded within a workplace
(4)
(b) Outline factors that might discourage
employees from reporting workplace accidents
(4)
1. Comply with legislative requirements

2. To enable an accident investigation to take place (with the aim of preventing
accidents of a similar type)
3. To identify accident trends from later statistical analysis
4. Accident reporting & recording can also lead to a useful review of risk
assessments
(b) (4)
1. Ignorance of the reporting procedures perhaps due to a lack of training & a poor
H&S culture
2. Peer pressure from other employees not to lose time on the job in hand if there
are time pressure imposed by management for instance
3. The trivial nature of any injury sustained, for example an employee may feel it not
necessary to report a minor paper cut
4. A desire to preserve the company’s, the department’s or the individual’s personal

safety record, particularly where bonus payments are affected by it
Dec 2011 Q1
(1)
A worker has been seriously injured after being struck by a
reversing vehicle in a loading bay
(a)Give the meaning of the term incident (2)
(b) Outline the actions that should immediately be taken
after the accident (4)
(c) Outline the process for investigating the accident
(6)
(d) Outline the principles of good interviewing technique to
be used when interviewing witnesses (8)
1. An umbrella term to cover both accident & near-misses

2. An uncontrolled, unplanned, uncontrolled event which has led to
harm or loss for an accident
3. Where a near-miss does not result in loss or harm
(b) (4)
1. Call for help, attending to the victim & administer first aid until removal
to hospital, ensuring this is safe to do so, which may require isolation of
power supplies if the person has suffered an electric shock
2. Informing the next of kin by the most appropriate way, as they will wish
to meet the injured person at hospital
3. Subsequent actions that are required to satisfy statutory requirements to

report the accident to the local enforcing authority as they may wish to
come & investigate

(c) (8)
1. The first step is to establish the investigation team
2. That done, it will be necessary to interview all the witnesses to the accident
3. This will include at the scene interviews immediately after the accident & later in a quiet office
so the person can then gather their thoughts to confirm what had happened
4. To collate all relevant existing documentation such as safe systems of work & maintenance &
training records
5. To analyse the information gathered to establish the accident’s immediate & underlying causes
6. A decision should then be taken on the remedial action that must be taken to prevent a
recurrence
7. Then an action plan prepared allocating responsibilities & a time scale for the introduction of the
recommended measures
8. Then communicating this to the individuals concerned
(d) (8)
1. One of the more important factors is to interview the witnesses as soon as possible after the accident
has occurred
2. This should occur at the scene where their memories are still fresh
3. Witnesses should be interviewed one at a time in a location which will ensure privacy with no
intervention or interruption
4. The at a later date the facts given should be confirmed, by both the person being interviewed & the
interviewer
5. It is essential that the witness is put at ease & they should be allowed to be accompanied if required
6. The interviewer should use open rather then leading questions to obtain the facts rather then feelings
or opinions
7. With it being made clear that the purpose of the interview is not to assign blame for the accident
8. On completion of the interview, the witnesses should be fully thanked for their cooperation
Mar 2006 Q1, Nov 2006 Q1, Jun 2007 Q1, May 2008
Q1, Jul 2008, Dec 2008 Q1, Apr 2009 Q1 (7)
An employee has been seriously injured after being struck by a

reversing vehicle in a loading bay
(i) Give FOUR reasons why the accident should be investigated by
the person’s employer (4)
(ii) Outline the information that should be included in the
investigation report (8)
(iii) Outline FOUR possible immediate causes & FOUR possible
underlying (root) causes of the accident (8)
1. The primary purposes of investigating an accident is to prevent similar accidents

occurring in the future
2. To identify the possible weaknesses in the safety management system
3. Facilitating compliance with legal obligations
4. Collecting evidence to defend a civil claim
(ii) (8)
1. The personal details of the injured party, time & location of the accident, the
environmental conditions & the work activity at the time of the accident
2. Possible breaches of legislation which could lead to prosecution & civil claims
3. The control measures in place, such as barriers, competence of the person injured
etc
4. The precise circumstances of the accident including positions of controls on the
vehicle if applicable
5. The type & extent of injury sustained including which part of the body & how
serious the injury
6. Details of witnesses & copies of their statements where taken at the scene & later
in a quiet environment
7. Drawings & photographs of the scene from various angles, long shots & close ups
8. Immediate & root causes identified & the recommendations of the investigation
team in relation to remedial action required
(iii) (8)
IMMEDIATE CAUSES
1. Failure of the brakes, so even though the driver did see the pedestrian he could not
stop
2. Human error or failure to comply with procedures by reversing too fast & not looking
out for pedestrians
3. Restricted view for the driver because he was reversing & not using a banks person
4. Environmental conditions such as high noise levels which may have caused the
pedestrian not to hear the vehicle
UNDERLYING CAUSE
1. Lack of driver &/or other employee training & supervision
2. Absence of site rules or procedures for enforcing the control of reversing vehicles
3. Failure to separate vehicular & pedestrian traffic in high risk areas
4. A lack of maintenance of vehicles &/or the workplace which caused the brakes to fail
Nov 2013 Q3
(1)
Identify information that should be included
in an accident investigation report (8)
"The answer"
1. The personal details of the injured party, time & location of the accident
2. Possible breaches of legislation
3. The control measures in place, such as barriers etc
4. The precise circumstances of the accident
5. The type & extent of injury sustained
6. Details of witnesses & copies of their statements
7. Drawings & photographs of the scene from various angles
8. Immediate & root causes identified
Mar 2006 Q10, Nov 2006 Q4, Jun 2007
Q10
(3)
Giving reasons in EACH case, identify FOUR

categories of persons who may be considered a
useful member of an internal investigation team
(8)
"The answer"
1. A senior manager
2. To demonstrate management commitment & to ensure appropriate remedial
action was taken
3. The line manager or supervisor
4. Who would be familiar with the working practices in the area where the accident
occurred
5. The safety adviser
6. To offer advice on the legal implications of the accident & the control measures
currently in place
7. The safety representative
8. To present the interests of their fellow employees to ensure
5.1 Proactive Active Monitoring
Sep 2013 Q6
(1)
(a) Outline the key features of a H&S audit
(4)
(b) Outline why the audit findings should be
presented to the senior management of an
organisation (4)
1. It is the most proactive of all monitoring methods & is a
separate element in the H&S management system
2. It is a critical systematic evaluation of the safety
management system in place within an organisation
3. It may be internal or external (independent without any bias)
& will be carried out by a team of trained auditors who are
very competent
4. It will follow audit trails through out the organisation to
interview employees to check their competence levels match
those stated in the management system
(b) (4)
1. The report will have recommendations as a result of non
compliances found during the audit. These will need to be
used as an action plan for senior management to place
actions on people within the organization
2. Senior management are the only people who can allocate the
resources required such as time & finances for the actions
3. It will show senior management commitment to the
workforce after they have communicated the findings to all
people within the organization
4. This will help to motivate the staff to carry out the necessary
actions as a result of the audit report to ensure continual
improvement of the H&S culture etc.
Dec 2012 Q2, Jun 2013 Q8
(1)
Identify documentation that is likely to be
inspected in a H&S audit (8)
"The answer"
1. Company H&S policy
2. Staff training records
3. Safety monitoring procedures
4. Consultation arrangements with staff
5. Past accident/incident records
6. Ill-health sickness absence records
7. Risk assessment proformas
8. Enforcement records such as improvement notices
Sep 2011 Q1
(1)
(a) An organisation is required to introduce
arrangements for H&S inspections
(i)Give the meaning of the term H&S
inspection (2)
(ii)Identify factors to consider when making these
arrangements (10)
(b) Outline how the findings in an inspection report might
be communicated in a way that is effective &
persuades senior management to take action (8)
"The answer" (a) (i) (2)
1. The identification of workplace hazards not

controlled to an acceptable standard
2. The observation of unsafe acts or the
confirmation of existing safe conditions & the
identification of good practice & compliance
with agreed procedures & vice versa
(ii) (10)
1. The size & complexity of the organisation, the type of work carried out & its
associated hazards
2. The history of accidents & incidents that may have occurred
3. The requirements for particular inspections contained in applicable legislation
4. International guidance & best practice
5. The selection & required competency of those chosen to carry out the
inspections
6. The nomination of a member of management to receive & action a report on
the inspections & the frequency of with which they should be carried out
7. The protocol for the immediate remedy of an unsafe situation which may
necessitate the granting of permission to stop an activity
8. Consideration of the use of a checklist for the inspections
9. A copy of previous inspection reports
10. The resources needed to introduce the arrangements & their costs
(b) (8)
1. The report should be clear & concise & should not include ambiguous phrases
& should explain specific technical terms where required
2. It should have an introduction, an executive summary & main body &
recommendations
3. Clear headings should be used with a general layout which will facilitate a clear
understanding by the reader
4. The report should acknowledge strengths where these have been noted such
as where good standards of compliance have been found
5. Should prioritise areas where action is necessary
6. Making clear recommendations in each case & proposing a timescale for the
required action
7. Comparing the results of the inspection with those carried out previously to
indicate whether there has been an improvement or a deterioration of
standards
8. Finally it should be communicated within a reasonable time period of the
inspection being completed
June 2012 Q8
(1)
(a) Outline the purpose of a H&S audit
(2)
(b) Outline the advantages of using an
(i) Internal auditor (3)
(ii) External auditor (3)
to carry out a H&S audit
“The Answer” (a) (2)
1. A systematic critical examination of a H&S

management system, involving a structured process for
the collection of objective information
2. With the aim of assessing the weaknesses the
effectiveness & reliability of the total system &
identifying its strengths & weaknesses
(b) (i) (3)
1. Their familiarity with the workplace, its tasks &

processes & their awareness of what might be
practicable for the industry
2. They would also be able to identify improvements
or conversely deterioration from the last audit
3. Also, the workplace may be more at ease with
someone who was part of the organisation
(ii) (3)
1. An external auditor on the other hand is more likely
to possess the necessary auditing skills & credibility
& will view the organisations’ performance through a
fresh pair of eyes
2. They will not be inhibited from criticising members of
management or the workforce
3. Also, they will be more likely to be up to date with
best practice as seen in other organisations
Nov 2013 Q7
(1)
(a) Give the meaning of the term health and
safety audit (2)
(b) Outline the issues that need to be
considered at the planning stage of an
audit (4)
(c) Identify TWO methods of gathering
information during an audit (2)
1. A systematic critical process of verifying the
suitability of a health and safety management
system within an organisation
2. Then following audit trails throughout the
organisation for verification of compliance with
these procedures
(b) (4)
1. Whether or not the audit is to be carried out internally by
the organisation personnel or the use of independent
auditors external to the organisation
2. The scope or range of the activities that will be covered by
the audit, for example engineering areas or administrative
3. The range of practical skills required of each auditor with in
the audit team, such as specialists in confined spaces etc.
4. The length of the audit process with timescales and
personnel to be interviewed as part of an overall programme
(c) (2)
1. By interviewing members of staff
2. By reviewing health and safety documentation
Jun 2013 Q10
(1)
Outline FOUR advantages of using
(a) An internal auditor (4)
(b) An external auditor (4)
To carry out a H&S audit
1. Their familiarity with the workplace, its tasks & processes &
their awareness of what might be practicable for the industry
2. They would also be able to identify improvements or
conversely deterioration from the last audit
3. Also, the workplace may be more at ease with someone who
was part of the organisation
4. The costs involved would be less, with no accommodation
transport & subsistence to be paid as well as the auditing
organisations, fee
(b) (4)
1. An external auditor on the other hand is more likely to
possess the necessary auditing skills & credibility
2. They will also view the organisations’ performance through a
fresh pair of eyes & without bias
3. They will not be inhibited from criticising members of
management or the workforce
4. Also, they will be more likely to be up to date with best
practice as seen in other organisations
Mar 2010 & Dec 2011 Q3
(2)
Identify
(a) FOUR active (proactive) (4)
(b) FOUR reactive (4)
means by which an organisation can
monitor its H&S performance
1. Environmental monitoring
2. Health surveillance
3. Safety observation tours
4. Benchmarking against the performance of
other like organisations
(b) (4)
1. Sickness absence rates particularly those

relating to occupational health
2. The number of actions taken by the
enforcement authorities
3. The number of civil claims
4. The number of complaints from workers
Mar 2012 Q1
(1)
It is important for organisations to monitor & review their H&S
performance
(a) (i)Give FOUR examples of active/proactive monitoring
methods (4)
(ii)Give FOUR examples of reactive monitoring
methods (4)
(b) Identify ways in which findings from monitoring can be
communicated to manager & workers (4)
(c) Identify factors that could influence the frequency of H&S
performance reviews (4)
(d) Explain why it is important for organisations to review their
H&S performance regularly (4)
1. Environmental monitoring
2. Health surveillance
3. Safety observation tours
4. Benchmarking against the performance of
other like organisations
(ii) (4)
1. Sickness absence rates particularly those relating to

occupational health
2. The number of actions taken by the enforcement
authorities
3. The number of civil claims
4. The number of complaints from workers
(b) (4)
1. At meetings of the H&S committee

2. Occasionally on a one to one basis as, for example at
an appraisal interview
3. A formal report of the board
4. In informal H&S newsletters
(c) (4)
1. The risk levels of the work activities &/or the

environment
2. A requirement of the organisation’s H&S
management system
3. Demands from the enforcing authority, insurers,
clients, workers or trade unions
4. A cyclic activity such as, for example, where
seasonal work is involved
(d) (4)
1. To compare actual performance with previously set targets to
ensure there is continual improvement in the H&S
management system
2. Additionally, reviews will assist in the allocation of resources
for those areas of the H&S management system which are
deficient
3. Will confirm or otherwise that the H&S management system
in place is working & being used effectively by people within
the organisation
4. It may be a requirement of the organisation’s own H&S
management system to review at certain intervals
Jun 2012 Q2, Jun 2013 Q4, Sep 2013
Q10
(3)
Outline factors that should be considered to
determine the frequency of H&S inspections in
the workplace (8)
"The answer"
1. Compliance with statutory requirements & International Labour Organisation
guidelines
2. The range of activities undertaken at the workplace & their associated level of risk
3. The make up of the workforce which could include vulnerable members such as the
young &/or disabled where high standards of H&S would have to be maintained
4. The past accident history of the organisation, for example if this was slowly
increasing as a trend then more frequent inspections would be required
5. Past performance & levels of compliance with & advice or action by the enforcing
authorities
6. Accreditation to an international standard such as OHSAS 18001, which may require
more inspections & an increase in their periodicity
7. After complaints or consultation with the workers who will provide practical
examples
8. An increase in sickness absences or ill-health occurrences with the organisation in
general
Mar 2011 Q5, Nov 2013 Q10
(2)
Outline the reasons why an organisation should

monitor & review its H&S performance (8)
"The answer"
1. To identify both good & substandard H&S practices & conditions from the results of
inspections & audits
2. To identify trends in relation to different types of incidents by analysis of relevant data
3. To compare actual performance with previously set SMART objectives & targets from
previous inspections
4. To identify why control measures are in use, to assess their effectiveness & to be able to
make decisions on appropriate remedial measures for any deficiencies identified
5. To assess compliance with legal requirements & accepted national/international
standards
6. To be able to provide a benchmark of the organisation’s performance against that of
similar organisations or an industry norm
7. To boost morale & motivate the workforce by the showing of senior management
commitment
8. Monitoring & review is a vital component of H&S management systems & is essential
that the system is externally accredited & audited by a specific body
Sep 2013 Q11, Feb 2014 Q11
(2)
Outline reasons why an organisation should
review its H&S performance (8)
See last question!
Jan 2013 Q11
(1)
(a) Outline the meaning of the terms
(i) Active (proactive) monitoring (2)
(ii) Reactive monitoring (2)
(b) Outline TWO active (proactive) monitoring

methods that can be used when assessing
an organisation’s H&S performance (4)
1. Proactive monitoring is a method of checking that
there suitable & sufficient safety measures in place
& that they are being used & maintained
2. One example of a proactive method is a H&S
inspection of the workplace
(a)(ii) (2)
1. Reactive monitoring is taking corrective action
after the event has already happened, for
example an accident/incident has occurred
2. One example of a reactive monitoring method

would be to carry out an accident investigation
to find the immediate & underlying/root causes
(b) (4)
1. Safety sampling which is an organised system of checking

defined areas of the workplace, & often particular health &
safety issues, on a regular basis
2. This is normally carried out by a team of supervisors with
checklists to indicate non-conformances making it a numerical
exercise with time constraints applied to ensure consistency of
results
3. Safety surveys which generally focus on a particular procedure,
such as the introduction of new equipment or on a particular
aspect such as the arrangements for fire
4. This is a more detailed form of safety sample
Jun 2013 Q8
(1)
(a) (i) Give the meaning & purpose of the
term active monitoring (2)
(ii) Give TWO workplace examples of
active monitoring methods (2)
(b) (i) Give the meaning & purpose of the
term reactive monitoring (2)
(ii) Give TWO workplace examples of
reactive monitoring methods (2)
1. The meaning of proactive monitoring is a method of

checking that there are suitable & sufficient safety
measures in place
2. The purpose is to ensure that these control
measures are being used & maintained
(ii) (2)
1. Safety sampling which is an organised system of

checking defined areas of the workplace, & often
particular health & safety issues, on a regular basis
2. This is normally carried out by a team of supervisors
with checklists to indicate non-conformances
3. Safety surveys which generally focus on a particular
procedure, such as the introduction of new equipment,
this is a more detailed form of safety sample
(b)(i) (2)
1. The meaning of reactive monitoring is taking
corrective action after the event has already
happened, for example an accident/incident has
occurred
2. The purpose is to produce statistics which can be
used to identify any trends of the types of accidents
occurring
(b) (i) (2)
1. One example of a reactive monitoring

method would be to carry out an accident
investigation to find the immediate &
underlying/root causes
2. Another method would be the reporting of
near misses, events which had the potential
to cause harm or loss
Feb 2014 Q2
(1)
Outline the key features of
(a) A H&S inspection (4)

(b) A H&S audit (4)
See next question!
Nov 2012 Q1, Mar 2013 Q1
(2)
(a) Outline the key features of
(i) A H&S inspection (4)
(ii) A H&S audit (4)
(b) Explain how the findings of an audit may be
used to improve H&S performance (12)
“The answer” (a)(i) (4)
1. A H&S inspection looks to identify hazards which are

not controlled to an acceptable standard
2. It involves walking around the workplace to observe
unsafe acts &/or conditions
3. It may involve the use of a checklist to guide the person
who is carrying out the inspection
4. Inspections can be carried out at different periodicities,
depending upon the level of risk complexity & by
people of varying competence levels
(a) (ii) (4)
1. An audit is a systematic evaluation of an organisations H&S
management system
2. This can be totally independent of the organisation therefore
preventing any bias from the auditor towards the people being
audited
3. The audit initially looks at the arrangements in place for H&S & will
check the effectiveness of H&S policy statements, risk assessments,
etc.
4. An audit trail will then be conducted to ensure that what is
supposed to happen according to the documentation does in fact
take place in the workplace
(b) (10)
1. Firstly the findings of the audit will presented to management in
the form of a concise written report with a suggested action plan
2. This report & action plan can then be used by the organisation to
identify their weaker areas & help prioritise the actions required
in a constructive & systematic way
3. If the audit was totally independent it should be totally unbiased,
thereby preventing the temptation to go easy on certain aspects
4. The audit will identify shortcomings in workers level of training &
competence & this can then be used to identify training needs
5. Likewise weaknesses in the maintenance of equipment may have
been found during the audit, which may lead the organisation to
review its periodicity of that maintenance, thereby improving
both safety & reliability
(b) (10)
1. The findings of the audit may highlight deficiencies in the risk assessment
process & implementation of safe systems of work
2. Enabling the organisation to therefore improve their arrangements for risk
assessment & safe systems of work accordingly & thereby reduce their
accident/incident rates
3. The audit may identify weaknesses in clarification of peoples roles &
responsibilities within the organisation & help improve this by suggesting
better methods of communication & consultation
4. The findings of the audit in general may help motivate management &
workers to improve their H&S performance
5. It can also help the organisation benchmark both internally within the
organisation & externally with other like companies
Sep 2013 Q8
(1)
(a) Outline the role of workplace H&S
inspections (4)
(b) (i)Give TWO strengths & weaknesses of
using a checklist when carrying out
an inspection (2)
(c) (ii)Give TWO weaknesses of using a
checklist when carrying out an
inspection (2)
See part (a) of last question!
(b) See later questions!
Oct 2013 Q6
(1)
Outline the key features of

(b) A health & safety inspection (4)
(a) A health & safety audit (4)
See last question!
March 2007 Q11, Sep 2010 Q10, Dec
2011 Q9
(3)
List the written information that is likely to be

examined during a health & safety audit (8)
"The answer"
1. Scores of the last audit carried out to be compared with this
audit’s scores
2. Policy statement contents
3. Observations of training records
4. Any enforcement action during last period
5. Review of copies of risk assessments
6. Number of accidents during the last period
7. Guarding of machinery including maintenance records
8. Written observations from wearing of PPE
Nov 2006 Q6
(1)
Outline the strengths & weaknesses of using a

checklist to complete a health & safety inspection
of the workplace (8)
"The answer"
STRENGTHS
1. Using a checklist to complete a H&S inspection of a workplace
enables prior preparation & planning to be made so that the
inspection is more structured & systematic
2. It reduces the chance that important areas or issues might be
overlooked
3. & provides an immediate record of findings
4. It also ensures a consistent approach by those carrying out the
inspection & provides an easy method for comparison & audit
WEAKNESSES
1. On the other hand, the weakness of using a checklist are that

over reliance on this method may lead to a blinkered approach by
inspectors with the possibility that significant risks might be
missed
2. That the checklist may not be reviewed & updated to account for
changes to work processes or equipment
3. That there is a danger that inspections become routine with no
follow-up questions being asked
4. That the system is too objective & restrictive with no scope for
peripheral issues to be considered
Dec 2005 Q10, May, Aug, Nov 2006 Q10, Mar 2007
Q10, Nov 2007 Q10, Dec 2007 Q10, Nov 2008 Q2, Oct
2010 Q7 Apr 2011 Q7
(10)
(a) Explain how accident data can be used to improve health
& safety performance within an organisation (4)
(b) Outline TWO proactive monitoring methods that can be

used when assessing an organisation’s health & safety
performance (4)
1. Accident data can be used to identify trends & problem areas in

order that resources can be allocated & appropriate remedial
actions taken
2. If accident rates are increasing, this is a good indication that the
proactive monitoring methods are not effective
3. Enables comparisons to be made with others benchmarking within
an organisation or external & how they can be used to provide
information to employees & to focus & stimulate discussion at
safety committee meetings
4. It also shows management commitment towards H&S, which can
help motivate employees to improve
(B) (4)
1. Safety sampling which is an organised system of
checking defined areas of the workplace, & often
particular health & safety issues, on a regular basis
2. This is normally carried out by a team of supervisors
with checklists to indicate non-conformances making it
a numerical exercise with time constraints applied to
ensure consistency of results
3. Safety surveys which generally focus on a particular
procedure, such as the introduction of new equipment
or on a particular aspect such as the arrangements for
fire
4. This is a more detailed form of safety sample
Mar 2006 Q8, Nov 2006 Q8, Jun 2007 Q10, May
2008 Q8, Jul 2008 Q8, Dec 2008 Q3, Apr 2009
Q8, Sep 2010 Q7
(8)
Outline FOUR proactive monitoring methods that

can be used in assessing the health & safety
performance of an organization (8)
"The answer"
1. Safety surveys which generally focus on a particular procedure, such as the
introduction of new equipment or on a particular aspect such as the
arrangements for fire
2. This is a more detailed form of safety sampling
3. Safety sampling which is an organised system of checking defined areas of the

workplace, & often particular health & safety issues, on a regular basis
4. This is normally carried out by a team of supervisors with checklists to indicate
non-conformances making it a numerical exercise with time constraints applied
to ensure consistency of results
5. Safety tours which are unscheduled, less formal inspections to check on general
workplace standards
6. This shows commitment if carried out by management
7. Benchmarking where performance is compared with that of similar external

organisations
8. Or internal within an organisation between departments
The End

Nebosh Flash Cards PDF

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Nebosh Flash Cards PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

NEBOSH International Certificate in

Question and Answers

From Dec 2005 to Feb 2014

1. Collapse of the sides

2. Drawing in and trapping is associated with the gap between

3. Friction or abrasion hazards would be associated with the

4. Stabbing or puncture hazards could be created by flying

2. Examples of such devices include pressure mats and

3. These are connected to the machine controls

4. These would stop the machine rapidly should a

• Element 2 H&S Management Systems - Policy

• Element 3 H&S Management Systems – Organising

• Element 4 H&S Management Systems – Planning

• Element 5 H&S Management Systems – Measuring, Audit &

No of times & the date the question

1. A more motivated workforce resulting in increased production rates

Identify the possible costs to an organisation

1. Time involved in the investigation of the

1. It is a legal requirement & / or that of a

1. International agencies such as the International Labour Organisation ILO

1. Occupational health services

An organisation has found to have inadequate

1. Low morale leading to low production

List the practical means by which a manager

1. This is followed by organizing for safety by controlling & allocating responsibilities

PLANNING & IMPLEMENTING

MONITORING & AUDIT

1. Proactive (inspections) & reactive (accident investigations) monitoring systems

1. The HSE publication /management system HSG(65)

1. After significant changes in work processes or the

Outline the main components of a health & safety

MONITORING & AUDIT

(a) Explain why it is important for an organisation to

1. It gives evidence of senior management

1. A reduction of injuries caused by manual handling activities by 10% over

Outline the key areas that should be addressed in

(b) Outline the issues that are typically included in the

(c) Describe the circumstances that would require a

1. Procedures for safe systems of work based upon risk assessments

1. After significant changes in work processes or the introduction

1. It gives evidence of senior management commitment &

2. It also gives authorization & ownership of H&S by top

(a) Explain the purpose of the statement of intent

(b) Outline the circumstances that would require a

1. Demonstrates an organisation’s senior management

Outline the circumstances that may give rise to a

(b) If those in the supply chain fail to carry out

1. An increase in accidents & incidents caused by failed

1. Excessive workload, with conflicting demands & little

1. Those provided by national agencies such as the

Identify possible influences on an organisation’s

1. EU organisations such as the European Parliament

1. Have they experience of this type of work, with suitable references?

1. Their unfamiliarity with the processes carried

Outline precautions that could be taken to ensure

1. Giving advice or warning either verbally or in writing

Outline the main responsibilities of

1. To provide a safe place of work which includes, safe systems of

List the factors that could be considered when

Factors that could lead to poor H&S behaviour in the

(b) Outline factors that contribute to workers’

1. Personal factors such as language barriers or cultural differences of

1. An organisation’s combined & individual beliefs & attitudes