Massachusetts Hoisting License Practice Test

When should safety barriers be constructed at a work site?

1. When working with heavy machinery

2. When performing maintenance

3. When near pedestrians

4. When working near overhead lines

The correct answer is: When working near overhead lines

Safety barriers should be constructed at a work site when working near overhead lines because this scenario presents a significant risk of electrocution or serious injury. Overhead power lines can carry high voltage electricity, and workers operating machinery or conducting activities in proximity to these lines may inadvertently come into contact with them. The construction of safety barriers serves as a critical precaution to delineate a safe working area, protecting workers from the dangers associated with overhead electrical hazards. These barriers help prevent unauthorized access to dangerous zones and ensure that operators are aware of their surroundings, reducing the likelihood of incidents caused by proximity to live lines. While safety barriers can be relevant in other scenarios, such as when working with heavy machinery, performing maintenance, or near pedestrians, the urgency and necessity of barriers specific to overhead lines are primarily driven by the high level of risk associated with electrical hazards.