PHR HR Exam Prep 2026 practice questions and answers. Tap an option to test yourself — you'll see the correct answer and a plain-English explanation for every question. Free, no login.
Q11Jessica offers to come into the office on a Saturday (her scheduled day off) to assist a friend with a project presentation. During her time at the office, she trips over a cable and injures her wrist, requiring medical treatment. Does the employer need to record this injury on OSHA forms 300 and 300A?
✓ Correct answer: A. No, because Jessica was present as a member of the general public at the time
Answer: No, because Jessica was present as a member of the general public at the time OSHA regulations require work-related injuries and illnesses to be reported using forms 300, 300A, and 301. There are several circumstances in which an employee can be injured or become ill in their workplace when it would not be considered work-related. In Jessica's situation, OSHA Standard 1904.5(b)(2)(i) applies. This subsection states that an employer is not required to record injuries and illnesses if, at the time of the injury or illness, the employee was present in the work environment as a member of the general public rather than as an employee.
Q12Which of the following scenarios illustrates a union engaging in an unfair labor practice by refusing to discuss contractual changes proposed by a management team appointed by the employer?
✓ Correct answer: D. Refusal to negotiate in good faith
Refusal to negotiate in good faith refers to a union's unwillingness to discuss contractual terms with the employer-appointed representatives. This violates the principles of collective bargaining where both parties are expected to negotiate over wages, working conditions, and other employment terms.
Q13In determining the frequency of employee turnover in an organization, which figure is typically used as a baseline for calculating annual turnover rate?
✓ Correct answer: A. 100 employees
The annual turnover rate is commonly calculated based on a baseline of 100 employees. This helps organizations standardize the measurement of turnover, allowing for an easier comparison across different companies or time periods.
Q14In a company focused on improving interdepartmental communication, what type of strategy involves forming a group to work on persistent communication challenges, potentially leading to either a temporary or permanent group?
✓ Correct answer: C. Cross-functional task forces
Answer: Cross-functional task forces Cross-functional task forces are formed to tackle ongoing organizational issues, such as improving communication across different departments. These groups can be permanent if the issue persists over time, or ad hoc if they are needed for specific challenges.
Q15Which of the following accurately outlines the stages of a grievance resolution process? Stage Description Initial Assessment Evaluate the grievance details and determine the necessity for a formal process. Preparation Plan the logistics and gather relevant information for the grievance process. Meeting Formally discuss the grievance between the parties involved. Deliberation Consider solutions and work towards mutual understanding between parties. Resolution Reach an agreed solution and document it for future reference.
✓ Correct answer: A. Initial Assessment, Preparation, Meeting, Deliberation, Resolution
Answer: Initial Assessment, Preparation, Meeting, Deliberation, Resolution. A grievance resolution process involves several stages aimed at resolving disputes: 1. Initial Assessment: Evaluate whether a formal grievance process is required. 2. Preparation: Arrange logistics and collect necessary information. 3. Meeting: Conduct a formal meeting for discussion. 4. Deliberation: Explore solutions through mutual discussion. 5. Resolution: Aim for a mutually agreed solution, then document it.
Q16Which of the following is a characteristic of the NIOSH stressor "work roles"?
✓ Correct answer: A. Conflicting or uncertain job expectations
Answer: Conflicting or uncertain job expectations Having conflicting or uncertain job expectations is a characteristic of the work roles stressor. NIOSH has identified the following job stressors: Task Design, Management Style, Interpersonal Relationships, Work Roles, Career Concerns, and Environmental Conditions. Work roles: Conflicting or uncertain job expectations; Too much responsibility; Too many "hats to wear".
Q17Which of the following statements is false regarding the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)?
✓ Correct answer: D. Employers are required to pay employees during FMLA leave
Answer: Employers are required to pay employees during FMLA leave. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for certain family and medical reasons. It ensures that the employee's job is protected during this leave period. While some employers may offer paid leave, the FMLA does not mandate paid leave.
Q18During a talent acquisition strategy meeting, HR develops a comprehensive document outlining key tasks and objectives tailored to meet organizational staffing needs. What is this document called?
✓ Correct answer: B. A talent acquisition plan
The correct answer is a talent acquisition plan. This plan is created to align with the organization's strategic human resource needs, detailing objectives, tasks, and timelines for acquiring talent that fulfills the company's goals. It is not to be confused with a succession planning report, which focuses on preparing internal candidates for future leadership roles, or a competency framework document, which outlines skills and behaviors required for various roles.
Q19When analyzing the recruitment data of new hires, how long should an organization maintain the employment application records for compliance purposes?
✓ Correct answer: B. For the duration of the employee's tenure and up to 1 year after their employment ends
The correct answer pertains to maintaining employment application records as part of compliance with employment laws. These records should be kept for the duration of the employee's career with the company and for up to 1 year following their departure to meet regulatory requirements.
Q20A company uses a cognitive ability test for hiring purposes and finds that 70% of white candidates pass it, compared to only 50% of Hispanic candidates. What is the company potentially facing?
✓ Correct answer: A. Adverse impact
Answer: Adverse impact Adverse impact occurs when employment practices, while seemingly neutral, disproportionately affect members of a protected group. This results in a selection rate for the protected group (in this case, Hispanic candidates) that is less than 80% of the rate for the majority group.
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