CSST PRE-TEST QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

The Certified Site Surveillance Technician (CSST) examination is a pivotal assessment for professionals aiming to specialize in asbestos monitoring and safety. This certification ensures that individuals possess the requisite knowledge to oversee asbestos-related activities, ensuring compliance with safety protocols and regulations. To aid in preparation, it's beneficial to familiarize oneself with the structure of the exam and the types of questions that may be encountered.

Exam Structure and Content

The CSST exam encompasses a broad spectrum of topics related to asbestos, including its properties, health risks, regulatory frameworks, and safe handling practices. Candidates are typically evaluated through multiple-choice questions, true/false statements, and scenario-based inquiries that assess their practical understanding and decision-making abilities.

Sample Questions and Explanations

1. Asbestos Groups Classification

   Question: Asbestos minerals are categorized into which two primary groups?

   A) Serpentine and Amphibole

   B) Chrysotile and Amosite

   C) Friable and Non-friable

   D) Thermal and Surfacing

   Answer: A) Serpentine and Amphibole

   Explanation: Asbestos minerals are divided into two main groups based on their fiber structures:

   • Serpentine: Characterized by curly fibers; the primary member is Chrysotile, commonly used in various building materials.

   • Amphibole: Distinguished by straight, needle-like fibers; this group includes minerals such as Amosite and Crocidolite.

2. Characteristics of Chrysotile Asbestos

   Question: Which of the following best describes Chrysotile asbestos?

   A) Brittle and hydrophobic

   B) Curly fibers and hydrophilic

   C) Straight fibers and hydrophobic

   D) Needle-like and hydrophilic

   Answer: B) Curly fibers and hydrophilic

   Explanation: Chrysotile, belonging to the serpentine group, has curly fibers and is hydrophilic, meaning it readily absorbs water. This property influences its behavior in various applications and its potential health impacts.

3. Regulatory Definitions of Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACM)

   Question: According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a material is classified as Asbestos-Containing Material (ACM) if it contains more than what percentage of asbestos by weight?

   A) 0.1%

   B) 0.5%

   C) 1%

   D) 5%

   Answer: C) 1%

   Explanation: The EPA defines ACM as any material containing more than 1% asbestos by weight. This threshold is crucial for determining regulatory requirements for handling and abatement.

4. Health Implications of Asbestos Exposure

   Question: Prolonged inhalation of asbestos fibers can lead to which of the following diseases?

   A) Asbestosis

   B) Mesothelioma

   C) Lung cancer

   D) All of the above

   Answer: D) All of the above

   Explanation: Chronic exposure to asbestos fibers is associated with several serious health conditions:

   • Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease causing scarring of lung tissue.

   • Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart.

   • Lung Cancer: Increased risk due to inhalation of asbestos fibers.

5. Regulatory Agencies and Asbestos

   Question: Which federal agency is primarily responsible for regulating workplace exposure to asbestos?

   A) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

   B) Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

   C) Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)

   D) Department of Transportation (DOT)

   Answer: B) Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

   Explanation: OSHA sets and enforces standards to ensure safe and healthful working conditions, including regulations on occupational exposure to asbestos.

Preparation Resources

To effectively prepare for the CSST exam, candidates should utilize a variety of study materials:

• Official Study Guides: Comprehensive resources that cover all exam topics in detail.

• Flashcards: Useful for memorizing key terms and concepts.

• Practice Exams: Simulate the test environment and help identify areas needing further study.

• Regulatory Documents: Familiarity with documents such as OSHA standards and EPA guidelines is essential.

Conclusion

Achieving CSST certification signifies a thorough understanding of asbestos safety and regulatory compliance. By engaging with diverse study materials and comprehending the rationale behind each question, candidates can approach the exam with confidence and competence.

Below are sample Questions and Answers:

Why was asbestos added to construction materials ?
It provided: insulation properties, strength and durability from weathering, made
spray on products easier to apply, and does not conduct electricity.
What are the three types of asbestos and their associated species?
Chrysotile : Serpentine , Amosite and Crocidolites : amphiboles.
What is the predominant color and structure of Chrysotile asbestos ?
white , long , curly , hollow
What is the predominant color and structure of Amosite asbestos ?
brown / tan ; long and straight
What is the predominant color and structure of Crocidolite ?
blue ; long and straight
What is the definition of a Surfacing material ?
is a sprayed on troweled on or otherwise applied to structural surfaces EX: acoustic
/ decorative ceilings, fire proofing, textured paints and plasters.
what is the definition of Thermal Systems Insulation?
applied to pipes, fittings, tanks, other structural, components etc. , to prevent heat
loss or gain. EX: pipe insulation, elbow mud, block insulation, air cell, asbestos
paper wrap, preformed halves, magnesium silica, etc
what is the definition of Miscellaneous products:
material that is not TSI or surfacing but applied to structural components.
Define Friable vs non friable.
Friable asbestos will crumble , pulverize or otherwise release dust by applying
hand pressure.
What agency does not use the term friable ? why?
OSHA - because tools that are used by workers can easily make non friable
materials friable.
Primary type of asbestos used in the U.S ?
Chrysotile.
List three building materials / locations where ACM is likely to be found
fire doors, fume hoods, felt under roofs or siding, amosite sheeting, kiln bricks and
cement, lab equipment, fire safety and equipment, auditorium curtains, gaskets,
vibration joints, etc