Question 1

OSHA requires trench protection (shoring or shielding) for trenches deeper than:

Accepted Answer

OSHA 1926.652 requires protection from cave-ins for trenches 5 feet or deeper (unless in stable rock).

Question 2

Ladders must be provided in trenches deeper than 4 feet and spaced no more than ___ feet apart.

Accepted Answer

OSHA requires egress (ladders) within 25 feet of lateral travel for workers in trenches 4 feet or deeper.

Question 3

Excavated soil (spoils) must be kept at least ___ feet back from the edge of the trench.

Accepted Answer

OSHA requires spoil piles to be at least 2 feet from the edge to prevent them from falling back in or causing collapse.

Question 4

What type of fire extinguisher is best for a fire involving PVC glue or solvents?

Accepted Answer

Solvents and glues are flammable liquids, requiring a Class B extinguisher.

Question 5

When soldering copper pipe, you should always wear:

Accepted Answer

Safety glasses protect eyes from flux splatter and solder; gloves protect against heat burns.

Question 6

Confined spaces (like manholes or septic tanks) require what before entry?

Accepted Answer

Permit-required confined spaces mandate air testing for oxygen deficiency or toxic gases before and during entry.

Question 7

Which gas is commonly found in sewers and is known as the 'silent killer' because it numbs the sense of smell?

Accepted Answer

Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) smells like rotten eggs at low concentrations but destroys the olfactory nerve at higher concentrations, making it undetectable and lethal.

Question 8

When cutting cast iron pipe with a snap cutter, the primary hazard is:

Accepted Answer

Cast iron is brittle and can shatter or send chips flying when snapped. Eye protection is critical.

Question 9

A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) is required for temporary power on job sites to prevent:

Accepted Answer

GFCIs detect ground faults and cut power instantly to prevent lethal shocks, especially in wet construction environments.

Question 10

Asbestos is most commonly found in older plumbing systems in:

Accepted Answer

Old steam and hot water pipes often used asbestos-containing insulation (lagging).

Question 11

When working on a gas line, you must:

Accepted Answer

Lockout/Tagout procedures ensure the gas cannot be accidentally turned on while work is being performed.

Question 12

The proper angle for setting up an extension ladder is a ratio of:

Accepted Answer

The 4:1 rule ensures stability. For every 4 feet of height, the base should be 1 foot away from the wall.

Question 13

Which of the following is considered 'Hot Work' requiring a permit in some facilities?

Accepted Answer

Soldering involves open flame, constituting a fire hazard that often requires a Hot Work Permit.

Question 14

Lead-based solder was banned for potable water systems in what year (Safe Drinking Water Act amendment)?

Accepted Answer

The 1986 amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act banned the use of lead solder (effective 1988).

Question 15

When lifting heavy pipes or water heaters, you should:

Accepted Answer

Proper lifting technique prevents back injury.

Question 16

The top of a ladder must extend at least ___ feet above the landing surface.

Accepted Answer

OSHA requires extension ladders to extend 3 feet above the landing to provide a handhold for getting off.

Question 17

What does MSDS (now SDS) stand for?

Accepted Answer

Safety Data Sheets (SDS) provide detailed info on chemicals (like glue, flux, putty) used on site.

Question 18

Before digging a trench, you must call:

Accepted Answer

811 is the national number to request utility locates before excavation.

Question 19

When working with raw sewage, plumbers should ensure they have current vaccinations for:

Accepted Answer

Hepatitis B and Tetanus are significant risks when exposed to sewage and rusty metal/soil.

Question 20

Nominal pipe size refers to:

Accepted Answer

Nominal size is a trade designation (e.g., 2 inch pipe), which approximates the ID but is not an exact measurement of OD or ID.

Safety & General Practice Questions

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