9 practice questions

Job-Site Safety & Hazardous Materials

Safety rules protect your crew, your clients and your license. These scenarios cover fall protection, lead paint in pre-1978 homes, suspected asbestos, mold, disposing of debris, and the hazards a job site creates for neighbors.

1. 01When does OSHA require guardrails on scaffolding?On scaffolds more than 10 feet high, under 29 CFR 1926.451. As prime contractor you are responsible for site safety, including your subcontractors' compliance, and OSHA can cite you directly.
2. 02What does the EPA RRP rule require when you find lead paint?In homes built before 1978, any renovation that disturbs lead-based paint must be done by EPA-certified renovators using lead-safe practices such as containment, wet methods, and HEPA cleanup. Presume lead until tested.
3. 03Can you remove suspected asbestos during a renovation?No. Maryland requires a licensed asbestos contractor to remove asbestos-containing materials such as old 9x9 floor tiles and pipe wrap. Get suspect materials tested, then have them abated or encapsulated by licensed professionals.
4. 04What should you do when demolition uncovers mold?Stop work in that area, photograph it, tell the homeowner at once, and get a professional assessment and certified remediation before resuming. Cover the added cost with a written change order; never tile over it.
5. 05How must renovation debris be disposed of?Legally, and in line with local rules. Have suspected asbestos tested before disposal and handle it as regulated waste if positive. Illegal dumping of construction debris is a criminal offense in Maryland.

6. 06Are you liable for weather damage to an unprotected job?Yes. Failing to protect an open job from foreseeable weather is negligence, and force majeure does not cover it. Take responsibility, file the claim on your liability insurance, and repair the damage.
7. 07Are you liable when someone slips on ice at your job site?You can share liability with the homeowner when your work affects the paths, for example equipment packing snow into ice. Salt or sand the access routes, document the incident, and notify your liability insurer.
8. 08What hours can construction start in a Maryland neighborhood?It depends on the local noise ordinance, commonly 7 or 8 a.m. on weekdays with stricter weekend rules. Check the county or city ordinance for the job site; a building permit does not exempt you from it.
9. 09What should you do when your crew damages a neighbor's property?Take responsibility right away: document the damage, offer prompt repair, and run it through your liability insurance so the settlement is on record and the neighbor is fully compensated.