Specialist HSE Exam Prep UK Exam Questions & Answers 2026 (21–30)

Question 1

What is the minimum safe working distance for mobile plant operating near overhead power lines rated at 33 kV?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

6 metres. For overhead power lines rated between 33 kV and 66 kV, the minimum safe working distance is 6 metres to prevent arcing and electrocution risks.

Question 2

Before excavation work begins, what is the PRIMARY purpose of using a Cable Avoidance Tool (CAT) and Signal Generator (Genny)?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

To locate underground services. A CAT and Genny are used together to locate and trace underground services such as electric cables, gas pipes, and telecommunications lines before digging to prevent strikes.

Question 3

Under what circumstances can an excavator be used as a lifting appliance on a construction site?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

When it has been designed, tested and certified for lifting by the manufacturer. Excavators can only be used for lifting if they have been specifically designed and tested for that purpose by the manufacturer, with appropriate certification and marked safe working loads.

Question 4

What document must be in place before entering a confined space on a construction site?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

A permit-to-work. A permit-to-work system is mandatory for confined space entry. It ensures all risks have been assessed, controls are in place, and authorized persons approve the work before entry.

Question 5

What is the minimum depth of excavation at which edge protection or barriers must be provided to prevent falls?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

2 metres. Edge protection must be provided for excavations 2 metres or deeper to prevent workers from falling in. Shallower excavations may also require protection depending on risk assessment.

Question 6

Who must be appointed in writing to supervise lifting operations involving a tower crane on site?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

An appointed person. Under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER), an appointed person must be designated in writing to plan and supervise all lifting operations.

Question 7

What colour are underground gas pipes typically painted or marked in the UK utility colour code?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Yellow. According to UK utility marking standards, gas pipes are identified with yellow markings to distinguish them from other underground services.

Question 8

Before a lift is made using a mobile crane, what calculation must be checked to ensure safety?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

The radius and safe working load from the load chart. The radius and load chart must be checked to ensure the crane's safe working load is not exceeded at the specific operating radius and configuration.

Question 9

In a confined space entry scenario, what is the PRIMARY role of the standby person positioned outside?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

To maintain communication and raise the alarm if needed. The standby person maintains constant communication with workers inside the confined space and can raise the alarm and initiate rescue procedures if an emergency occurs.

Question 10

What is the purpose of a Temporary Works Coordinator (TWC) on a construction project?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

To ensure temporary structures are properly designed, checked and installed. The TWC ensures that temporary structures such as scaffolding, propping, and excavation support are properly designed, checked, and safely installed before use.

Specialist HSE Exam Prep UK Exam Questions & Answers 2026 (21–30)

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