IGC Exam Sucess Guide

NEBOSH INTERNATIONAL GENERAL CERTIFICATE
EXAM SUCCESS
(TACKLING THE NEBOSH EXAMINATION)
RRC Business Training acknowledges with thanks the co-operation of

NEBOSH in the production of this booklet.
Module 950.1.1
RRC Business Training

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NIC Exam Success (Tackling the NEBOSH Examination)
NEBOSH INTERNATIONAL GENERAL CERTIFICATE

EXAM SUCCESS
(TACKLING THE NEBOSH EXAMINATION)
CONTENTS
LIST OF TOPICS
PAGE
AIM ..............................................................................................................1
INTRODUCTION............................................................................................... 3
PAPER A1: THE MANAGEMENT OF SAFETY AND HEALTH..................................... 5
PAPER A2: CONTROLLING WORKPLACE HAZARDS ...........................................17
EXAMPLE OF A COMPLETED PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT REPORT FORM .............. 28
EXAMPLE OF A COMPLETED REPORT TO MANAGEMENT ....................................31
AND FINALLY.............................................................................................. 34
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AIM
The aim of this booklet is to prepare you for your NEBOSH International
Certificate examinations by providing some example questions and
model answers. The booklet also aims to provide an insight into what
NEBOSH expects from you, as well as what mistakes to avoid.
The model answers provided have been written as ideal answers, and
not under examination conditions or time restraints. It may therefore
not always be possible to produce such detailed answers in the actual
examination.
We have also included detailed examples of a completed Practical
Assessment Report and a completed Report to Management for you to
consider in the course of your preparation.
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INTRODUCTION
EXAM LAYOUT
The examination consists of two papers:
!
Paper A1: The Management of Safety and Health
Paper A2: Controlling Workplace Hazards
Each paper comprises one long question (worth 20 marks) and ten
short questions (worth 8 marks each). You have to answer ALL
questions.
For each paper, you have two hours to complete your answers. This
means that you have approximately 25 minutes to answer the long
question and on average eight minutes per short question. This should
leave adequate time for reading the questions thoroughly before you
attempt to answer, and for reading through your answers at the end.
The second element is the practical assessment, which involves
carrying out a workplace safety inspection and writing a short summary
report. The inspection will take around 30 minutes.
Exam Technique
NEBOSH are renowned for setting challenging questions in exam
papers and for marking strictly. NEBOSH are not trying to catch you
out, but they do word their questions in such a way as to ask for
specific information and they expect this information to be provided in
the requested format.
The main mistake that candidates make again and again is to not read
the questions properly. Often candidates provide excellent answers
but unfortunately they do not answer the question they have been
given.
It is all well and good understanding the syllabus back to front, but it is
of no use if you have poor examination technique. The following skills
are required to achieve maximum marks:
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!
Read the question.
Understand what information is being requested.
Understand the breadth of knowledge required.
The ability to provide the information in a logical and coherent

way.
Time management (you must allocate your time evenly throughout

to take into account the number of marks allowed per question).
It is important to identify the action verb within the question as this

identifies the breadth of knowledge required in the answer. The
following meanings of the verbs have been identified by NEBOSH:
!
List
provide a list without explanation.
Identify
select and name.
Outline
give the most important features of (less depth

than explain or describe but more depth than
list).
Describe -
give a word picture.
Explain
give a clear account of, or reasons for.
Define
provide a generally recognised or accepted

definition.
State
a less demanding form of define, or where there is

no recognised definition.
Give
provide without explanation (e.g. give an

example of).
Sketch
provide a simple line drawing using labels to

identify specific features.
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PAPER A1: THE MANAGEMENT OF SAFETY AND

HEALTH
EXAMPLE LONG QUESTIONS
Question 1
The results of a health and safety audit of an organisation showed a
number of non-compliances with respect to procedures.
(a)
Describe the possible reasons for procedures not being adhered

to.
(10)
(b)
Outline what actions could be taken to encourage employees to

comply with health and safety procedures.
(10)
Approaching the Question

Firstly, look at the marks allocated - this is a long question and so you
should allocate your time accordingly (approximately 25 minutes).
Consider how much writing may be involved - generally examiners will
expect to see about a page and a half (depending on size of writing,
etc.).
Part (a) To describe means to provide a word picture of something.
Hence, it is not enough just to list the reasons, but rather each one
needs to be expanded on slightly to ensure the reader understands the
point. As a result, each reason will be allocated 2 marks up to a
maximum of 10. It is important to focus on describing the reasons only
- dont try to guess what procedures are not being complied with. You
cannot know this as no information is given and you will not gain any
marks for guessing.
When answering this question, do not get stuck on the word audit .
The question is not about audits; it is about why people do not do what
they are supposed to do. If you are not sure how to approach this
question, try to think of an example, such as employees failing to wear
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - why might this happen? The
answer to this might be: no-one enforces it; peer pressure;
management are not concerned; PPE makes the work task more
difficult; employees have never been told to wear PPE, etc.
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Part (b) asks for an outline, which essentially means the main
features or general principles. For this, no explanation of the points is
required, and so 1 mark will be given for each valid point up to a
maximum of 10. The question requires actions that could be taken to
encourage or motivate employees to comply with procedures - think
about how people are motivated, encouraged and engaged. Again, use
an example to help you visualise the issues. Following on from the
example used above, the actions may include: provide training, joint
consultation on provision and use of PPE, poster campaigns,
management commitment, discipline, etc. Remember the example is
only there to help you - keep your answer general as the question
demands.
Once you have worked out what is required, then you may want to jot
down a quick plan of your answer to help you answer more logically.
This may also help if you run out of time as the examiner can then see
that you were thinking along the right lines and may allocate you some
marks. Remember to identify your notes as a plan, and put a neat line
under it when you have completed your answer. Make sure the
examiner can read the content.
Answer Plan
(a)
Unrealistic procedures, poor safety culture, poor management

commitment, inadequate supervision/enforcement, lack of
training/information, etc.
(b)
Safety meetings, team briefings, joint consultation, involve

employees in risk assessments, provide training, poster
campaigns, encourage accident/incident reporting, provide a
good working environment, job rotation, discipline, etc.
Model Answer
(a)
Following a health and safety audit, a number of non-compliances

were identified with respect to procedures. There are a number of
reasons why procedures may not be followed within an
organisation. Firstly, it may be that the procedures laid down are
unrealistic or that they are unclear. This may be due to the fact
that the procedures were written without consultation with
employees, and so the procedures do not reflect what is really
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happening in the organisation. Alternatively, there may be

pressure on employees to cut corners in order to get the job done
quickly and hence procedures are not followed for this reason.
This pressure may come from management or from the employees,
depending on the incentives involved, e.g. piece work.
There may be a general lack of safety awareness and commitment
caused by an underlying poor safety culture. This may be due to a
lack of management commitment or peer pressure, or just a
general lack of motivation throughout the workforce. The poor
safety culture may be further enforced by inadequate supervision
or lack of enforcement when procedures are breached.
A lack of training may be the reason that procedures are not
followed. Employees may not have been shown the correct way of
carrying out a procedure. Alternatively, there may be literacy or
language issues which have meant that some employees have not
been provided with adequate training or information.
There may be issues around the work task itself that mean
procedures are not followed, e.g. the task is repetitive, boring or
complex. Additionally, the working conditions may be poor
because of the design or lack of consideration of ergonomic
issues. These in turn may mean that procedures are not followed.
(b)
There are a number of ways in which employees can be motivated

and encouraged to comply with health and safety procedures.
Regular safety meetings and/or team briefings could be held
where procedures are discussed. Appropriate training and
information could also be provided. In addition, employees could
be involved in risk assessments or undertaking safety observation
tours. Joint consultation in the form of safety committees could
also be set up to encourage employee participation.
Improvements to the working environment, welfare facilities or the
job itself all help to make the employee feel valued.
Additionally, employees could be encouraged to report accidents,
incidents or hazards. Safety could also be included in personal
performance appraisals or objectives with appropriate recognition
or praise when targets are met.
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Poster campaigns or information provided on noticeboards add to

improving employee awareness. A means for encouraging
suggestions or ideas from employees could be introduced along
with a suitable incentive scheme.
Many of the above measures will, in themselves, help to improve
the visibility of management commitment and should help to
improve the overall health and safety culture of an organisation.
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Question 2
Following a workplace accident, an employer has decided to implement
regular workplace inspections.
(a)
Outline the factors that the employer should consider when

planning the inspections.
(6)
(b)
Outline three proactive methods for monitoring health and

safety performance.
(6)
(c)
Identify all the possible costs to the company as a result of the

accident.
(8)
Answer Plan
(a)
Nature of hazards, team composition, competence, location,

frequency, checklists, consultation, standards/legislation,
remedial actions, cost.
(b)
Audits, safety surveys, sampling, tours, benchmarking (outline

only three).
(c)
Lost production, clean-up/repair costs, lost time, investigation

costs, first aid, intangible costs (morale etc.), increase in
insurance premiums, fines, compensation, replacement/retraining
of staff, etc.
Model Answer
(a)
When planning workplace inspections, the employer must

consider various factors. Firstly, the employer must consider what
is to be looked at during the inspections as well as the nature of
the hazards present. The location or route over which the
inspection is to be completed must be considered, as must the
proposed frequency. The inspections must be scheduled on a
regular basis, e.g. every three months. The team carrying out the
inspections must be chosen carefully to ensure that it includes
representatives from management, the workforce and a safety
advisor. The team must also be competent to carry out the
inspections.
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It is essential to have a checklist to use during the inspections to

ensure that they are always completed in a consistent and
systematic manner. Consultation with employee representatives
would also be beneficial to ensure that everyone understands why
the inspections are being implemented, and what the benefits
might be as a consequence.
The employer must also consider what relevant standards or
legislation apply to his/her workplace so that the inspection can
be used to check compliance. Additionally, consideration must be
given to how remedial work identified during the inspection is
prioritised, and how progress is followed up.
The safety of the inspectors must not be forgotten, especially
where they may be entering sites where Personal Protective
Equipment, or permits are required.
Finally, the employer must consider the cost of implementing such
a programme.
(b)
Three additional proactive methods that could be used in the

monitoring of health and safety performance are audits, safety
surveys and safety tours.
A safety audit subjects an organisation to a comprehensive and
independent examination of all aspects of their health and safety
performance against stated objectives.
A safety survey is a detailed, in-depth examination of a specific
field of activity, e.g. manual handling.
A safety tour is an unscheduled workplace inspection to ensure
that standards of housekeeping are at an acceptable level.
(c)
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There are a number of possible costs to the organisation as a

result of the accident. There may be lost production due to the
accident itself, or due to the repair of damaged plant and
equipment afterwards. Additionally, there may be clean-up and
repair costs. Materials may also have been damaged and need to
be replaced.
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The personnel involved in the accident may be off work following

the accident, leading to the payment of sick pay as well as the cost
of replacement staff. First-aid facilities and personnel may have
been used at the time of the accident.
There are also the intangible costs such as the effect on employee
morale, as well as the loss of business image.
The accident may lead to an increase in insurance premiums.
Depending on the nature and severity of the accident, there may
be legal costs in the form of fines or court and legal representation
costs. There may also be a compensation claim by the injured
party.
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EXAMPLE SHORT QUESTIONS

Question 1
Using an example in each case, explain the following terms:
(a)
Hazard.
(2)
(b)
Risk.
(3)
(c)
So far as is reasonably practicable.
(3)

Firstly, it is important to note that the question asks you to explain
each term and give one example for each. This question is quite
straightforward and it should be easy to gain full marks. Remember to
allocate your time appropriately. We suggest spending approximately
two minute on each point and spending no more than eight minutes on
this question.
Part (a): 1 mark will be allocated for explaining the meaning of hazard
and 1 mark for giving an appropriate example.
Part (b): 2 marks will be given for the meaning of risk which shows that
there must be two elements to the meaning. 1 mark will be given for
the example.
Part (c): 2 marks will be given for the meaning of so far as is
reasonably practicable and 1 mark for the example.
If you are struggling to remember the meanings, put down some
examples - this may help you to formulate the meaning and vice versa.
Model Answer
(a)
A hazard is something with the potential to cause harm, e.g. a

damaged floor covering such as a torn carpet has the potential to
cause harm.
(b)
Risk is the probability or likelihood that an unwanted event will

occur, and the possible severity in terms of injury/damage should
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it occur. For example, if a torn carpet is in the middle of a

walkway, then there is a high risk of someone tripping over it and
injuring themselves. If, however, the torn carpet is under a desk,
then the risk is greatly reduced.
(c)
The term so far as is reasonably practicable is a balance of risk

against cost where cost is money, time or trouble. If the risk is
significant and the cost is manageable then action must be taken,
if the opposite applies then no action has to be taken. For
example, if the torn carpet is in the middle of a walkway, then the
risk is significant, and if the cost to repair or replace it is
manageable, then the remedial work should be carried out. If,
however, the torn carpet is under a desk then the risk is
negligible, the costs of repairing/replacing the carpet may
outweigh the benefit of having the work completed and so no
action need be taken.
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Question 2
Permit-to-work systems are used in many industries.
(a)
Define the term permit-to-work system.
(2)
(b)
Outline three types of work situation where a permit-to-work

system may be required, and explain, for each one, why a permitto-work system is necessary.
(6)
Model Answer
(a)
A permit-to-work system is a formal, documented, planned

procedure designed to protect personnel working in hazardous
areas.
(b)
A permit-to-work system may be required for entry into confined

spaces, working on electrical equipment and working at height.
For entry into confined spaces, the permit-to-work system would
be essential for ensuring that the air quality is tested prior to entry
and so protecting personnel from suffocation. For working on
electrical equipment, a permit-to-work system would be required
to ensure that the equipment has been made safe prior to work
commencing and hence ensuring contact with live electrical
components is not possible. For working at height, a permit-towork system is required for ensuring that measures are in place to
protect personnel from falls.
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Question 3
(a)
Describe four unsafe conditions that can lead to an accident.

(4)
(b)
Describe four unsafe acts that can lead to an accident.
(4)
Model Answer
(a)
Examples are:
Guard missing
Wet floor
Ice on steps
Hazardous substances leaking into the atmosphere
Machine not maintained
Defective hand-tool
Torn and damaged PPE.

(Only 4 were required)
(b)
Examples are:
Playing games or tricks at work
Working without authorisation
Smoking in a non-smoking area
Breaking the rules, cutting corners.
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Question 4
Outline the hierarchy of control measures that can be used to minimise the risk
from a workplace hazard.
(8 marks)
Model Answer
The hierarchy of control measures to minimise the risk from a workplace hazard
is:
!
Eliminate hazards.
!
Reduce exposure to hazardous substances.
Isolate, segregate.
Control through engineering means.
Procedures, policy, PPE.
Discipline.
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PAPER A2: CONTROLLING WORKPLACE HAZARDS

EXAMPLE LONG QUESTIONS
Question 1
Battery-powered forklift trucks are used in a warehouse to move pallets
around.
(a)
Describe four hazards arising from the use of battery-powered

forklift trucks.
(4)
(b)
Outline the controls needed to ensure pedestrian safety in

locations where the forklift trucks are in use.
(8)
(c)
Outline eight rules that must be adhered to when a forklift truck is

left unattended by the driver during a work shift.
(8)

This question is about the control measures necessary to reduce the
risk from the use of battery-powered forklift trucks. It is important to
note that Part (a) refers specifically to battery-powered forklift trucks.
For this reason the hazards should relate specifically to batteries and
their use, and not to overturning as candidates have focused on in the
past. Parts (b) and (c) are more general.
Again, approximately 25 minutes should be spent on this question. The
marks are fairly clearly allocated. Remember for Part (a) to describe
each hazard to obtain full marks - dont just list the hazards. For Parts
(b) and (c), 1 mark is given for each control/rule. Again, remember that
outline requires that you give the most important features of; dont
just provide a list.
Answer Plan
(a)
Generation of gas, battery acid, handling of batteries, electrical

hazards, silent running.
(b)
Marking of traffic routes, segregation of pedestrians, warning

signs, audible alarms, adequate lighting, mirrors, HV clothing,
safe systems of work, enforcement, training/supervision of staff.
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(c)
Firm/level surface, designated area, forks on floor, brake on,

power off, key removed, away from other vehicles, not obstructing
emergency exits, walkways, etc.
Model Answer
(a)
There are a number of hazards associated with battery-powered

forklift trucks. The main hazards relate to charging the battery of
the forklift truck. They include the generation of hydrogen gas
(which is highly explosive) and the potential release of battery
acid. For this reason battery charging should be completed in a
designated area that is well ventilated. This will prevent any
build-up of fumes which could in turn lead to explosion and/or
injury to personnel. There are also hazards associated with the
handling of the batteries including manual handling and contact
with battery acids. Contact with electrical components is another
hazard that could result in electric shocks or burns. Collision with
pedestrians might occur due to the near silent running of the
truck.
(b)
In order to ensure that pedestrians are kept safe in areas where

forklift trucks are being used, there are a number of precautions
that must be implemented. Firstly, it is important to have traffic
routes marked out so that it is clear where forklift trucks are
allowed. In addition, pedestrian routes should be clearly marked
and forklift trucks must not be allowed in pedestrian areas. Where
possible, pedestrian areas should be physically segregated from
the traffic route.
The warehouse should have adequate lighting to ensure good
visibility at all times. Fixed wall mirrors may also be necessary for
use on corners. In addition, high visibility clothing and
transparent doors will ensure that personnel can be seen easily at
all times.
The forklift trucks must be fitted with audible alarms and, in
particularly noisy environments, rotating or flashing lights may
also be necessary.
It is also important to ensure that safe systems of work for
loading, unloading and stacking are in use and are being adhered
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to at all times. In the same way, it is essential that all rules

relating to the safe use of the forklift trucks are enforced,
particularly those relating to speed restrictions and access.
In addition to the above, it is vital that drivers and pedestrians are
adequately trained and supervised to ensure that the precautions
above are adhered to.
(c)
There are a number of rules that a driver must follow when leaving
his/her forklift truck unattended. The first one relates to leaving
the forklift truck on a firm level surface, in a designated area, to
ensure that it cannot roll away. The truck must not be left in a
position where it could obstruct emergency exits, walkways or fire
points, and must be parked away from other vehicles.
The truck should be left with the mast tilted slightly forward and
forks resting on the floor to make sure that it is stable and not
likely to overturn. The truck must not be left until the brake has
been applied and the power switched off. Where a start key is
used, the key must be removed and returned to a responsible
person, as appropriate. This will prevent unauthorised use of the
truck.
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Question 2
New owners are about to move into an existing office building.
(a)
The new owners are carrying out an assessment of the suitability

of lighting within the building. Identify the factors that should be
considered.
(8)
(b)
Outline four factors, other than lighting, associated with the

physical working environment, that may impact on the health and
safety of personnel.
(4)
(c)
Outline the welfare facilities required in the building.
(8)
Answer Plan
(a)
Tasks to be undertaken, equipment to be used, natural light,

layout of office, existing lighting levels (stairs, corridors, office),
types of artificial lighting, glare, emergency lighting.
(b)
Noise, temperature, humidity, air quality/ventilation, condition of

floors, space constraints, workstation design.
(c)
Toilets, washing facilities, drinking water, rest areas, first-aid

facilities, coat storage, rest facilities for pregnant women and
nursing mothers, protection from tobacco smoke.
Model Answer
(a)
When assessing the suitability of lighting within the building, the

new owners must consider a number of factors. Firstly, they must
consider the tasks to be undertaken and the equipment to be
used. Where close work is to be carried out, then the lighting
requirements will be greater than where general office
administration is being completed. Again, where intricate
machinery requiring precise setting is being used, then extra
localised lighting may be required.
The new owners must look at the suitability of the existing lighting
in all areas including stairs and corridors. They must also look at
the amount of natural light in the building and make best use of
this, as natural light is preferable to artificial light. In addition,
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they must also consider significant contrast in lighting between

different areas. For this, they must look at the layout of the office
including the positioning of screen dividers in relation to overhead
lighting, and other areas that may be in shadow. It may be
possible to move screens and/or furniture around to improve
existing lighting levels, or to reduce/remove glare from computer
screens.
The condition and appropriateness of the artificial lighting must
be considered. Flickering fluorescent tubes can be annoying, as
can excessive glare caused by spotlights in the wrong place. The
maintenance and the cleaning procedures may also require
consideration.
Emergency lighting must also be considered, as people are
especially exposed to danger in the event of a lighting failure.
(b)
The physical working environment can be affected by a great many

factors which can affect the health and safety of the employees
working in that environment. One such factor is noise, which can
have a stressful effect on employees. Another factor is
temperature. Extremes of temperature can affect an individuals
ability to concentrate and can make them feel physically unwell.
For an office environment, a temperature of 16 degrees Celsius is
reasonable.
Space constraints may also affect employee health and safety.
Cramped conditions may make individuals feel claustrophobic.
Additionally, though, inadequate space may result in accidents.
Ventilation is another important factor. Enclosed workplaces must
be ventilated by a sufficient quantity of fresh or purified air. Poor
ventilation may make employees feel ill with symptoms such as
headaches and nausea (Sick Building Syndrome).
(c)
There are a number of welfare facilities that are required in the

building. An adequate number of well-ventilated and well-lit
sanitary conveniences in relation to the number of male and
female employees is essential. In addition, washing facilities with
hot and cold running water, and a means of drying must be
available.
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A source of drinking water must be present, and this must be

clearly marked, where appropriate. There must also be some
facilities for taking rest and refreshment away from the working
area. Additionally pregnant women and nursing mothers must
have rest facilities.
The building must protect non-smokers from the effects of
inhaling tobacco smoke. Many buildings will have a designated
area for smoking or smokers may be obliged to go outside.
Accommodation must be available for clothing not worn during
working hours, e.g. coats, etc. This accommodation may take the
form of lockers or merely a hook.
First-aid facilities must be available. The number of people
employed in the building will determine whether a first-aid kit is
adequate, or whether a fully equipped first-aid room is required.
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EXAMPLE SHORT QUESTIONS

Question 1
Outline the principal health effects of the following agents and, for each
one, identify the work situation in which a person may be exposed:
(a)
Carbon monoxide.
(2)
(b)
Asbestos.
(2)
(c)
Legionella bacteria.
(2)
(d)
Hepatitis virus.
(2)

This question requires two points for each agent in order to gain full
marks. The first part is to identify the main effects of the agent on the
body. Additionally, a typical workplace situation where a person may
be exposed must be given - it is important to note that the question
asks for a workplace situation, therefore, it is not adequate just to put
a workplace, such as a hospital. The actual situation or activity is
required.
This question asks for specifics and so it is not possible to answer with
generalities.
Model Answer
(a)
The principal health effects of carbon monoxide are headaches,

drowsiness and possible suffocation. Exposure could occur when
working near a vehicle exhaust in an unventilated area, e.g.
vehicle repair premises.
(b)
Exposure to asbestos may cause asbestosis (a fibrotic disease of

the lung), lung cancer or mesothelioma (cancer of the lining of the
lung). Workers engaged in maintenance or demolition work where
asbestos is contained in the fabric of the building are at risk.
(c)
Exposure to Legionella bacteria may cause legionellosis, which is

characterised by flu-like symptoms, pneumonia and in about 15%
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of cases, death. Any workplace that has untreated water tanks

and systems from which water droplets may be released into the
atmosphere (e.g. from air-conditioning systems or cooling towers)
poses a risk to those in the vicinity.
(d)
The principal health effects of the hepatitis virus include jaundice,

fever, abdominal pain and, ultimately, liver failure. Any workplace
situation that exposes people to infected persons or used
hypodermic needles presents a risk, e.g. hospitals. The
Hepatitis A virus, which is normally less serious, is transmitted via
the mouth; Hepatitis B and C via the blood.
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Question 2
Outline the requirements necessary to evacuate people safely from a
building on fire.
(8)
Model Answer
In order to ensure the safe evacuation of people from a building, it is
important that the following requirements are in place. Firstly, there
must be a means for raising the alarm (e.g. fire alarm, hand bell), and
the distance to the nearest available exit must be acceptable. Escape
routes must be of sufficient width and have clear signage to indicate
the escape route. In addition, escape routes must be kept clear of
obstructions, with fire doors closed to prevent the spread of smoke.
Appropriate fire-fighting equipment must be provided and be in full
working order. Emergency lighting must be provided where necessary.
In order to ensure that the evacuation process itself runs smoothly, fire
marshals must be appointed. These marshals will ensure that the
building is evacuated fully and that nobody is left inside.
There must also be procedures to evacuate people with a physical
disability, e.g. in relation to hearing, sight or mobility. It is important to
practise the evacuation plan at regular intervals.
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Question 3
(a)
(b)
Consider a piece of machinery with moving parts and identify:

(i)
Two mechanical hazards (associated with the moving

parts).
(2)
(ii)
Two non-mechanical hazards that the operator of the

machine may be exposed to.
(2)
In order to reduce the risk of injury from dangerous parts of the

machinery, outline a hierarchy of control measures that may be
used.
(4)
Model Answer
(a)
(b)
(i)
Mechanical hazards are those from the moving parts of the

machinery and/or the material being worked and include
impact and entanglement.
(ii)
Non-mechanical hazards that could affect the machine

operator include noise and vibration.
A hierarchy of control measures that could be used to reduce the

risk of injury from the dangerous parts of the machine commences
with the fitting of fixed guard(s). These enclose the dangerous
parts and must be fixed in place. Where fixed guards are not
practical, then other types of guards, e.g. interlock guards (where
the machine cannot start before the guard is closed), or protective
devices, e.g. trip systems or pressure sensitive mats, should be
considered.
Where guards cannot give full protection, safety aids such as jigs,
push sticks or holders can be used.
In addition to the above, the provision of information, training and
supervision are important to ensure that operators use the
machines safely.
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Question 4
Consider an individual lifting a load. Outline the factors that may affect
the risk from manual handling in relation to:
(a)
The load.
(4)
(b)
The individual.
(4)
Model Answer
(a)
The nature of the load may present a risk of injury during manual
handling activities. Important factors to consider are the size and
the weight of the load. In addition, consideration should be given
to whether the contents of the load may move and the load
become unbalanced. The position of the centre of gravity is
important too. If the centre of gravity is not in the centre then this
can make the manual handling activity more difficult.
Consideration must also be given as to how easy it is to secure a
firm grasp of the load and whether sharp edges are present.
(b)
The individual carrying out the task may affect the level of risk of a
manual handling activity. Firstly, one should consider the body
size and strength of the individual in relation to the task. The age
and gender of the individual must also be considered. Other
factors such as physical handicaps or restrictions due to illness,
disability or pregnancy should be taken into account. Note that
individual lack of training in manual handling will increase the
level of risk associated with the task. Finally, inappropriate
clothing or footwear will also increase the level of risk associated
with the manual handling activity.
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27
EXAMPLE OF A COMPLETED PRACTICAL

ASSESSMENT REPORT FORM
INTERNATIONAL
GENERAL
CERTIFICATE
Candidates observation sheet
PART B
THE PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
Sheet Number
of
Candidates Name
_______________________________ Candidate Number C _____________
Place inspected
Engineers workshop and store
Date of inspection ___ /
Observations
Priority/
List hazards, unsafe practices and

good practices
risk
(H, M, L)
List any immediate or longerterm action required
Timescale
(immediate, 1 week, etc)
Fire risk due to the storage of

flammable substances on the
bench.
All flammable items to be

stored in a fireproof
cabinet.
Immediate.
Fire risk due to the current

obstruction of the fire exit with an
oil drum.
Drum to be removed to a
safe place and exit kept
clear at all times.
Immediate.
Slipping hazards due to

untreated oil spillages on the floor
The floor should be cleaned

and subject to regular
cleaning.
Immediate.
Health risk due to the practice of

preparing beverages on a dirty
bench.
This practice should be

prohibited.
Immediate.
Health risk due to inadequate

ventilation.
Mechanical ventilation
capable of achieving 10 air
changes per hour should be
installed.
Engineers workshop.
Actions to be taken(if any)
Within 14-28 days.
(Continued)
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Timescale
(immediate, 1 week, etc)
Observations
Priority/
Actions to be taken(if any)
List hazards, unsafe practices and

good practices
risk
(H, M, L)
List any immediate or longerterm action required
Risk of eye and face injury due

to operator not wearing visor
provided.
Requirements relating to
the wearing of visor
should be enforced.
Immediate.
Risk of injury from falling

items due to overloaded state of
the storage racking.
Storage racking should be

reorganised.
Immediate.
Risk of back injury due to

operators not lifting heavy items
correctly.
Further racking should be

installed.
Training in safe manual
handling should be
provided and posters
depicting correct
techniques displayed.
Within 14-28 days.
Immediate.
This is an example only. More sheets would be used as required.
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29
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EXAMPLE OF A COMPLETED REPORT TO

MANAGEMENT
Report on an Inspection of the Engineers Workshop and Store
I carried out an inspection of the Engineers Workshop and Store on
Tuesday, 14th December 2004 with a view to assessing current safety
standards and compliance with legal requirements.
The Engineers Workshop is housed in a former stables, built in 1907.
Generally, the standard of safety was poor, and there are a number of
breaches of legislation which require urgent management attention, as
indicated in the attached list of observations and recommendations.
Those matters requiring urgent management attention are outlined
below.
1.0 Fire Hazards
A number of fire hazards were present as a result of unsatisfactory
working practices, including: the storage of flammable substances on
a workbench; obstruction of a fire exit; the storage of flammable refuse
in plastic refuse sacks; and the use of the store for storage of welding
gases.
Whilst unsatisfactory working practices can be eliminated at no cost
through improved management control, there is an urgent need to
provide a gas cylinder storage area which meets current legal
requirements. This will entail a medium level of expenditure.
2.0 Housekeeping
The standard of housekeeping in the store is very poor. There are
numerous fire, tripping and contact hazards due to the fact that the
store is far too small for the range of items stored. The store should be
completely cleared. Extra racking should be provided to permit storage
off the floor. This could be installed at minimal cost, with the disposal
of unwanted items.
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31
3.0 Machinery and Equipment

Several items of machinery and equipment are in a dangerous state due
to the absence of guarding, inadequate maintenance and overloading
of storage racking. There is evidence of the guard to the metal-cutting
guillotine having been removed at some time in the past; a wooden
ladder is in a highly dangerous state; and the metal racking is distorted
due to overloading. Most of these deficiencies can be remedied at little
cost. Engineering staff must be instructed to report hazards
immediately.
4.0 Working Practices
Due to the obvious lack of safety awareness by staff in this workshop, a
number of unsafe practices were noted. These included: the failure to
clear oil spillages; the preparation of beverages on a dirty workbench;
the failure to wear full face protection whilst welding; unsafe manual
handling practice; and the storage of chemicals in unmarked mineral
water bottles. All these practices may be associated with poor
supervision and a lack of training in the appropriate safe working
practices.
I would recommend that all staff attend a one day training course on
Workshop Safety, to be run by the Health & Safety Unit, in the near
future.
These recommendations can be implemented at little or no cost.
5.0 Welfare Amenity Provisions
The sanitation and hand-washing area is in a particularly dirty state,
and requires urgent cleaning and redecoration. No provision is made
for the storage and changing of clothing, for rest and taking of meals.
There is a strong case for redevelopment of this area in the near future
with a view to providing these amenities. This will entail capital
expenditure.
CONCLUSION
There is clear evidence that very little attention has been paid to
maintaining good standards of health and safety performance in this
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area for some time. Because of the poor standard of provision of

engineering facilities, staff have had to work under difficult conditions
in order to fulfil their duties.
There are numerous breaches of legislation which could result in
enforcement action. Vast improvements in the standard of cleanliness
and housekeeping, the control of fire, chemical and equipment
hazards, however, could be brought about rapidly through improved
supervision and minimal expenditure.
On a long-term basis, there is a need to consider future workshop
arrangements, including the provision of more working space together
with better storage and welfare arrangements.
Date
14/12/2004
Copyright RRC 2004
Signature
A Smith
33
AND FINALLY
Hopefully this booklet has provided some relevant practice questions
as well as some ideas for tackling them. It should also have shown that
the questions are straightforward; but that it is vital that you READ THE
QUESTION and answer the question that is written (not the one that you
want it to be!).
In order to do well in the exams, it is really important to practise as
many exam questions as possible
Lastly, dont panic about the exam, but do ensure that you are prepared
- you want to make sure that all your hard work will be rewarded.
34
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NEBOSH INTERNATIONAL GENERAL CERTIFICATE

RRC Business Training acknowledges with thanks the co-operation of

RRC Business Training

NIC Exam Success (Tackling the NEBOSH Examination)

NEBOSH INTERNATIONAL GENERAL CERTIFICATE

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NIC Exam Success (Tackling the NEBOSH Examination)

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NIC Exam Success (Tackling the NEBOSH Examination)

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NIC Exam Success (Tackling the NEBOSH Examination)

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NIC Exam Success (Tackling the NEBOSH Examination)

Paper A1: The Management of Safety and Health

Paper A2: Controlling Workplace Hazards

Copyright RRC 2004

NIC Exam Success (Tackling the NEBOSH Examination)

Read the question.

Understand what information is being requested.

Understand the breadth of knowledge required.

The ability to provide the information in a logical and coherent

Time management (you must allocate your time evenly throughout

It is important to identify the action verb within the question as this

provide a list without explanation.

select and name.

give the most important features of (less depth

give a word picture.

give a clear account of, or reasons for.

provide a generally recognised or accepted

a less demanding form of define, or where there is

provide without explanation (e.g. give an

provide a simple line drawing using labels to

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NIC Exam Success (Tackling the NEBOSH Examination)

PAPER A1: THE MANAGEMENT OF SAFETY AND

Describe the possible reasons for procedures not being adhered

Outline what actions could be taken to encourage employees to

Approaching the Question

NIC Exam Success (Tackling the NEBOSH Examination)

Unrealistic procedures, poor safety culture, poor management

Safety meetings, team briefings, joint consultation, involve

Following a health and safety audit, a number of non-compliances

Copyright RRC 2004

NIC Exam Success (Tackling the NEBOSH Examination)

happening in the organisation. Alternatively, there may be

There are a number of ways in which employees can be motivated

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NIC Exam Success (Tackling the NEBOSH Examination)

Poster campaigns or information provided on noticeboards add to

Copyright RRC 2004

NIC Exam Success (Tackling the NEBOSH Examination)

Outline the factors that the employer should consider when

Outline three proactive methods for monitoring health and

Identify all the possible costs to the company as a result of the

Nature of hazards, team composition, competence, location,

Audits, safety surveys, sampling, tours, benchmarking (outline

Lost production, clean-up/repair costs, lost time, investigation

When planning workplace inspections, the employer must

Copyright RRC 2004

NIC Exam Success (Tackling the NEBOSH Examination)

It is essential to have a checklist to use during the inspections to

Three additional proactive methods that could be used in the

There are a number of possible costs to the organisation as a

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