North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

What is required for all portable, power-driven equipment?

1. Must be left unattended

2. Must have guards above and below the base plate

3. Should only be used by professionals

4. Must be cleaned before each use

The correct answer is: Must have guards above and below the base plate

The requirement for all portable, power-driven equipment to have guards above and below the base plate is crucial for ensuring the safety of the operator and others nearby. Guards are designed to prevent accidental contact with moving parts, protect against debris, and minimize the risk of injury during operation. This is especially important in a construction environment where equipment operations pose potential hazards. Proper guarding also helps in maintaining compliance with safety regulations, which are instituted to mitigate risks associated with machinery operation. By ensuring that all necessary guards are in place, the risk of accidents is significantly reduced, allowing for safer working conditions. This focus on safety is a vital aspect of operating power-driven equipment, thus making it the correct answer in this context. In contrast, leaving equipment unattended can create dangerous situations, unqualified personnel should not operate complex machinery, and cleaning equipment before each use, while beneficial for maintenance, does not inherently ensure the same level of safety as having proper guards in place.