Practice Qualitative Exam
Which of the following does NOT constitute a protective system for excavation? (A) sloping or benching sides of the trench (B) trench shields (C) shoring (D) ladders
D A protective system for excavation protects against collapse and excavation. Ladders do not offer such protection [OSHA 1926.652].
A 600 ft long crest vertical curve has a back tangent with a 1% grade and a forward tangent with a -3% grade. What is most nearly the tangent offset at the PVI? (A) 0.20 ft (B) 1.7 ft (C) 3.0 ft (D) 300 ft
D Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. Work with percent and stations. The curve length is 6 sta. The parabola constant is Vertical Curve Formulas a=(g2−g1)/2L = (−3%−1%) / (2)(6 sta) =−0.33 %/sta The tangent offset at the PVI is Vertical Curve Formulas E=a (L/2)^2 = (-0.33 %/sta) (6 sta/2)^2 (100ft/1sta) =-300.0ft
Given the following table of precedence relationships, how many nodes would be needed to form an activity-on-node critical path network? activity description predecessors A site clearing - B removal of trees - C general excavation A D grading general area A E excavation for utility trenches B, C F placing formwork and reinforcement for concrete B, C G installing sewer lines D, E H installing other utilities D, E I pouring concrete F, G (A) 6 (B) 7 (C) 9 (D) 11
D Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. The activity-on-node representation of this project is below. [CPM Precedence Relationships] Counting the starting and ending dummy activities, there are 11 nodes.
Work that does not contribute directly to activity completion, but is either essential for completion or increases the efficiency of the direct work is (A) effective work (B) productive work (C) indirect work (D) contributory work
D Solution Effective work is directly involved in the process of completing an activity and adds to the completed product. Productive work is the direct, hands-on work to physically complete the activity. Indirect work supports the main activity, such as supervision, planning, travel with handling materials or tools, and walking empty-handed to get materials or tools. Contributory work is not directly adding to activity completion but is still essential to activity completion or increases the efficiency of the effective or productive work.
The location of a concrete box culvert outlet is to be identified by a lath grade stake. The elevation outlet invert is 12 ft higher than the existing ground level, and the invert is located 8 ft from the reference point. What would be a reasonable marking on a lath grade stake anticipating a small amount of settlement? (A) F 12^00 12^00 (B) C 12^00 8^00 (C) F 8^00 12^00 (D) F 12^03 8^00
D 12 ft of fill can be expected to settle. The amount of settlement should be added to the fill specification.
Which feature is NOT a standard feature of a written construction contract? (A) identification of both parties (B) specific details of the obligations of both parties (C) boilerplate clauses (D) subcontracts
D A written contract should identify both parties, state the purpose of the contract and the obligations of the parties, give specific details of the obligations (including relevant dates and deadlines), specify the consideration, state the boilerplate clauses to clarify the contract terms, and leave places for signatures. Subcontracts are not required to be included, but may be added when a party to the contract engages a third party to perform the work in the original contract.
Which parameter does NOT describe part of a horizontal circular curve? (A) approach tangent (B) interior angle (C) long chord (D) turning point
D Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. A horizontal curve is made of several components, but turning point is not one of them. [Basic Curve Elements]
A soil is classified as A-2-4 in the AASHTO Soil Classification System. The soil is passed through a no. 200 sieve. What is the maximum percentage of soil particles that passes through the sieve? (A) 10% (B) 15% (C) 25% (D) 35%
D Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. According to the AASHTO Soil Classification System, up to 35% of an A-2-4 soil's particles will pass a no. 200 sieve. The 10%, 15%, and 25% thresholds are associated with A-3, A-1-a, and A-1-b soils, respectively. [AASHTO Soil Classification System]
The following problem is based on the table given. Assume there is one station for each task and all stations can spend as much time on a given task as necessary. task predecessors time A C 4 B - 3 C - 5 D A, B 7 E B 3 F D, E 6 Which task should be started first? (A) B (B) C (C) D (D) E
(B) C Solution Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. The task that takes the longest and is the predecessor of the most projects should be started first. The choice is between tasks B and C, since the other projects all have predecessors. Task C precedes Task A, which precedes Task D. Task B precedes tasks D and E. Between tasks B and C, Task C is the longest, and its successor, Task A, is also longer than Task D, so Task C should be started first. [CPM Precedence Relationships]
Given the table of activities and predecessors, which of the following activity-on-branch networks is drawn correctly? activity predecessors A - B A C - D A, C
3 -C-> 4 -D-> 5 ^ | x 0 -A-> 1 -B-> 2 Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. Since each activity can only appear once, a dummy activity, x, must be performed as shown in the network of option (C). [CPM Precedence Relationships]
Program evaluation and review technique (PERT) is NOT commonly used for (A) short projects (B) complex projects (C) multidisciplinary projects (D) late projects
A
What is the meaning of the lath stake markings? φ | \|/ (A) Soil should be graded up to the level of the horizontal line. (B) There is a buried pipe below. (C) The stake is on the centerline of the roadway. (D) A sewer invert should be installed at this level.
A A crow's foot or arrow drawn through a circle means that the horizontal line represents the final grade. An operator of excavation equipment will add fill up to the grade line.
What type of drawing is required for every building construction project, regardless of size or complexity? (A) floor plan (B) finish plan (C) mechanical plan (D) reflected ceiling plan
A A finish, mechanical, or ceiling plan is not required for every building construction project. A project may not have finish, ductwork, or ceiling changes that would make require plans to be drawn up for those systems. A floor plan is required for every building construction project because every project will have a floor or base scope. If the construction project will have other work done, the other casework drawings will be based off of the floor plan.
Highway engineers place warning signs and speed advisories in advance of unusual curves, lane narrowing, and other restrictive road conditions. In general, if the number of lanes does not change, how would the capacity of the roadway be expected to change at the location of the road condition? (A) The capacity would be the same, but flow at a lower speed. (B) The capacity would increase due to driver alertness. (C) The capacity would be the same through the condition zone, but a queue would form ahead of the zone as drivers slowed down after seeing the warning signs. (D) The capacity would be less through the condition zone.
A Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. Capacity is a function of the jam density and vehicle speed. If the same flow is present within the condition zone as immediately before and after, then a reduction in speed through the zone will cause an increase in density. [Flow-Density Model] However, the design capacity of the road remains the same despite the increased density. Flow at capacity depends only upon the free-flow speed and jam density. Free-flow speed through the condition zone would decrease. Drivers tend to be more cautious when driving through a road condition that is important enough to have advance warning signs posted. When drivers travel more cautiously, vehicle speed tends to be reduced.
The pour sequence for a foundation mat and an elevated slab is being planned. The elevated slab will be poured 14 days after the foundation mat. The 8 ft of soil supporting the foundation is doubly drained at its top and bottom and has a coefficient of consolidation of 0.46 ft2/day. After supporting the foundation mat for 14 days, the remaining degree of consolidation is most nearly (A) 30% (B) 40% (C) 60% (D) 70%
A Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. Find the shortest distance to the drainage boundary for a doubly drained soil. H_d = t_soil/2 = 8 ft/2 =4 ft Determine the time factor for the increase in pore pressure. Time Rate of Settlement T_v = (c_v *t) / (H_d)^2 =(0.46 ft^2/day)(14 days)/(4 ft)^2 = 0.4025 From a table of average degrees of consolidation, for a time factor of 0.4025, the approximate consolidation is 70%. [Average Degree of Consolidation, U, Versus Time Factor, Tv, for Uniform Initial Increase in Pore Water Pressure] Find the remaining degree of consolidation. U_remaining = 100% - U_current =100%-70%= 30%
In trip planning, the gravity model assigns trips between zones as a function of (A) travel attractiveness (B) mode choice (C) proportion of route capacity (D) growth factors
A Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. The gravity model compares zone-to-zone trip assignments based on the the distance from the trip origin and some measure of attractiveness. Travel attractiveness is selected on the basis of travel time, but can also include other factors such as cost, comfort, and access convenience. [Traffic Forecast]
When analyzing friction on pavement, why is it prudent to use lower values for lateral friction than for forward travel friction? (A) Drivers and passengers have less tolerance for lateral discomfort than for forward travel discomfort. (B) Tires cannot produce as much friction in the lateral direction as in the direction of forward travel. (C) A driver rounding a curve cannot see as well to the side as he or she can see straight ahead. (D) Side friction is less important than forward travel friction in emergency maneuvers.
A Drivers and passengers are usually better prepared to handle higher g-forces when braking and accelerating than during hard cornering. Automotive seat support systems and passenger seating positions are not usually designed for higher lateral g-forces, adding to the discomfort. Further, side-to-side vehicle movement is more disorienting than forward and back movement, so that drivers generally have more difficulty controlling the vehicle safely.
What property describes the variance of a metal's crystalline structure depending on temperature? (A) allotropism (B) isotropism (C) polymorphism (D) isogamy
A Solution Different crystalline structures require different amounts of energy to form; the energy from a temperature change can cause the crystalline structures of some metals to change. The property that describes the variance of a metal's crystalline structure depending on temperature is allotropism
What is the preferred method to avoid negative stations in a construction document? (A) Station 0+00 is selected some significant distance from the project boundary. (B) The starting station within the project boundary is arbitrarily selected as 0+00. (C) Stationing is reset to the secondary 0+00 point when a negative station occurs. (D) The negative stations are reported as positive numbers with the designation "R" added to indicate reverse stationing.
A Solution In order to avoid negative stations, the starting station should be outside of the project boundary. Alternatively, the starting station within the project boundary can be arbitrarily selected as some positive number, such as 10+00 or 100+00.
Factors to consider when designing a protective support system for deep trenching include (A) soil classification (B) OSHA's analysis of site conditions (C) water content of soil (D) adjacency of swamps, lakes, and reservoirs
A Solution OSHA does not provide site analysis services. The contractor's competent person would do so, taking many factors implicitly into consideration. However, the OSHA regulations are primarily organized by soil classification types A, B, and C and should be used when designing a protective support system [OSHA 1926.651(k)(1)].
Excavation site emergency rescue equipment (respirators, harnesses and lifelines, and basket stretchers) is required by OSHA when (A) hazardous atmospheres exist (B) hazardous atmospheres have existed previously (C) the atmosphere has not been tested (D) there is no competent person
A Solution Per OSHA, emergency rescue equipment is required when a hazardous atmosphere exists or can be reasonably expected to exist. Options (C) and (D) are OSHA code violations [OSHA 1926.651(g)(2)(i)].
Following Gantt chart construction, which factor need NOT be taken into account? (A) available staff hours (B) slack times (C) project schedule (D) non-critical tasks
A Solution Project schedule, slack times, and dependencies all need to be taken into account for Gantt charts. Available staff hours are not usually represented on Gantt charts.
Which option best describes the contractual lines of privity between parties in a general construction contract? (A) The consulting engineer will have a contractual obligation to the owner, but will not have a contractual obligation with the general contractor or the subcontractors. (B) The consulting engineer will have a contractual obligation to the owner and the general contractor. (C) The consulting engineer will have a contractual obligation to the owner, general contractor, and subcontractors. (D) The consulting engineer will have a contractual obligation to the general contractor, but will not have a contractual obligation to the owner or subcontractors.
A With a general construction contract, a consulting engineer will be hired by the owner to develop the design and contract documents, as well as to assist in the preparation of the bid documents and provide contract administrative services during the construction phase. The contract documents produced by the engineer will form the basis of the owner's agreement with the contractor. Although the engineer will work closely with the contractor during the construction phase, and may work with subcontractors as well, the engineer will not have a contractual line of privity with either party.
According to the Unified Soil Classification System, the classification of an inorganic soil having 55% passing a no. 200 sieve, a liquid limit of 48, and a plasticity index of 8 is (A) ML (B) CL (C) OL (D) CH
A Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. According to the Unified Soil Classification System, [Soil Classification Chart] a soil having 55% passing a no. 200 sieve is fine grained. From the plasticity chart, the liquid limit and plasticity index render the fine-grained soil a silt, either ML or OL because the soil falls below the "A" line in the plasticity chart. The soil is therefore an ML soil because the PI plots below the "A" line and it is not an organic soil. [Plasticity Chart for Unified Soil Classification System]
A construction project is being planned using the critical path method (CPM). Which of the following possible considerations would be included in the CPM plan? I. specific tasks/activities II. sequence of each task/activity III. time required to complete each task/activity IV. cost to complete each task/activity V. lead time required for procurement of materials and equipment VI. time to produce and approve fabrication drawings VII. cost of developing drawings and specifications VIII. interdependencies of tasks/activities (which must be completed before others can begin) IX. who will be assigned to each task (A) I, II, III, V, VI, and VIII (B) II, IV, VI, VII, and IX (C) I, III, IV, V, VII and VIII (D) I, II, V, VI, VII, VIII and IX
A Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. To plan a project using the critical path method (CPM), all work activities or tasks are identified, their precedence (sequence and relationships) is established, and individual durations are assigned. [CPM Precedence Relationships] A CPM plan does not include resource or cost information. All items except IV, VII, and IX would be included in a CPM project plan.
If a nuclear density gauge is used early in the morning immediately after visible ground surface frost has evaporated, the gauge will most likely indicate (A) a higher moisture content (B) a higher dry density (C) a lower voids ratio (D) the same as later in the day
A The ground will still be frozen immediately after the surface frost has evaporated. When water freezes, it expands and takes up a larger volume in the material beneath the gauge. Because water is less dense than the measured material, the density will be lower and the nuclear density gauge will indicate a higher moisture content. As the percent moisture result will be elevated, the dry density will be lower, not higher, if the material contains frost.
How often should an excavation be inspected by a competent person? (A) hourly (B) daily (C) weekly (D) continuously
B An excavation should be inspected by a competent person daily [OSHA 1926.651(k)(1)].
Which of the following is LEAST likely to be true for construction documents? (A) They are both written and graphic documents. (B) They are often prepared and assembled by the owner. (C) They communicate the design of the project. (D) They are used to administer the contract for construction.
B Construction documents are written and graphic documents. They include contracts, designs and specifications that are written as well floor plans that are completed graphically. Construction documents are not usually prepared and assembled by the owner. They are commonly prepared and assembled by the engineer.
At a signalized intersection, what design change is usually required in order to reduce the approach dilemma zone? (A) increase the red phase for the affected approaches (B) increase the yellow phase for the affected approaches (C) increase the green phase for the affected approaches (D) increase the all-red phase
B Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. A dilemma zone is an area on the approach where a vehicle can neither safely clear the intersection before the red phase starts without speeding up, nor safely stop prior to the intersection stop bar. The condition may exist on only one approach, so the design change is to increase the yellow phase on each affected approach. [Dilemma Zones]
Average daily traffic is determined by (A) counting the total flow of traffic over a period of less than one year, and then dividing it by the total number of work days in the period (B) counting the total flow of traffic over a period of less than one year, and then dividing it by the number of days in the period (C) estimating the total flow of traffic over a period of time by means of peak period traffic counts, and then dividing by the number of weekdays in the period (D) converting trucks and buses in the vehicle count to passenger car equivalents
B Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. Average daily traffic includes all calendar days, using counts taken over a period of more than one day but less than one year. [Average Annual Daily Traffic Estimation]
A coarse sand with a standard penetration resistance of 5 blows/ft would most likely be considered (A) soft (B) loose (C) medium (D) medium dense
B Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. Sands—granular soils—are described in terms of relative density (e.g., very loose, medium dense, very dense). Clays and other cohesive soils are described in terms of stiffness (e.g., soft, medium, hard). A sand with a standard penetration resistance of 5 blows/ft from a standard penetration test (SPT) would be considered loose. [Soil Properties Correlated with Standard Penetration Test Values]
A layer of dry sand is 25 ft thick and has an internal friction angle of 34°. The shear strength of the sand (A) is constant throughout the layer (B) varies with both depth and stresses within the layer (C) varies only with depth within the layer (D) varies only with stresses within the layer
B Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. Shear strength varies throughout a layer of soil depending on both depth and effective stress. [Shear Strength of (a) Cohesionless Soils and (b) Cohesive Soils]
Space mean speed is (A) the average speed in the middle of a block or highway segment (B) the length of a segment divided by the average travel time of several vehicles or trips over the segment (C) the sum of measured spot speeds divided by the number or measurements (D) the value that occurs most frequently in a sample of average speeds along a segment of roadway
B Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. Space mean speed is the average speed over a set distance, or from one end of a space to the other. (HCM Ch. 4 , "Speed") [Space Mean Speed]
For a given channel with trapezoidal cross section geometry, the most hydraulically efficient flow occurs when the depth of flow is (A) 3/2 the hydraulic radius (B) twice the hydraulic radius (C) equal to the hydraulic radius (D) 1/2 the hydraulic radius
B Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. The most efficient trapezoidal channel has a flow depth, y, twice that of the hydraulic radius, R. We are looking for depth of flow, y, not Hydraulic Depth, D. Option B is correct. [Best Hydraulic Efficient Sections Without Freeboard]
When analyzing crest vertical curves for sight distance, a primary relationship that must be checked is (A) whether the passing sight distance is shorter or greater than the stopping sight distance (B) whether the length of curve is shorter or longer than the sight distance (C) whether the driver eye height is less or more than the midordinate distance (D) whether the K-value is less or more than the design speed
B Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. Two different relationships are used, one for curve lengths less than sight distance, and one for curve lengths greater than sight distance. Midordinate and K-values are secondary to sight distance calculations for crest vertical curves. [Vertical Curve Formulas]
Which of the following is NOT true of contract documents? (A) They include legally enforceable requirements that become part of the contract when the agreement is signed. (B) They include all procurement requirements. (C) They include contract forms, conditions of the contract (general and supplementary), and drawings. (D) They include specifications.
B Contract documents are the documents that help manage the role, requirements and responsibilities for a construction project. They include all specifications, procedures, documents, drawings and are legally enforceable when the agreement is signed. Procurement documents may be contained within the contract documents but it is not a requirement. Supplementary info, or changes to specifications, drawings, and other documents may be issued at a later date.
Stopping distance equations often refer to PIEV time. PIEV stands for (A) perception, inception, evaluation, volition (B) perception, identification, emotion, volition (C) perception, identification, evaluation, verification (D) perception, identification, execution, verification
B Perception means seeing and recognizing a certain circumstance or condition ahead. Identification means determining the nature of the upcoming condition. Emotion means developing and deciding what type of response will be taken, such as applying the brakes or steering to a different path. Volition means starting the physical body movements necessary to fulfill the selected response. The four stages are usually summed as a single reaction.
What is the meaning of the lath stake markings? C 0^7 \/ (A) The finished elevation is 0.7 ft below the existing surface. (B) The finished elevation is 0.7 ft below the horizontal line. (C) The finished elevation is at the horizontal line. (D) The finished elevation 0.7 ft toward the centerline is at the horizontal line.
B Since the crow's foot does not have a circle, the horizontal line represents a reference point, not the finished elevation. The finished elevation is 0.7 ft below the horizontal line. Cutting is required.
A construction worker may enter an excavation without a protective system when the excavation is (A) entirely in soil type A (B) less than 5 ft deep with no indication of a potential cave-in (C) free of standing water (D) none of the above
B Solution A construction worker may enter an excavation without a protective system when the excavation is less than 5 ft deep with no indication of a potential cave-in [OSHA 1926.652(a)(1)(ii)].
A constructive change is a change to the contract that can legally be construed to have been made, even though the owner did not issue a specific, written change order. Which of the following situations is normally a constructive change? (A) request by the engineer-architect to install OSHA-compliant safety features (B) delay caused by the owner's failure to provide access (C) rework mandated by the building official (D) expense and delay due to adverse weather
B Solution A constructive change to the contract is the result of an action or lack of action of the owner or its agent. If the project is delayed by the owner's failure to provide access, the owner has effectively changed the contract.
Prior to setting elevation stakes on a small construction site, a surveyor is most likely to (A) obtain topographic maps from the National Geodetic Survey (B) establish a local control (C) correct azimuths for declination (D) research recorded deeds and locate parcel boundaries
B Solution All elevation stakes must be referenced to a single point. This point can be a federally recorded control point, but most construction sites are distant from such points. Therefore, a surveyor will establish some local feature on or close to the jobsite that can be used as a reference. The other alternatives, while having utility depending on the situation, are not specifically relevant to setting elevation stakes.
Remotely located, unattended excavations may be left open (unfilled) (A) when no one is working in the area (B) when the excavation has been barricaded or covered (C) when a watcher is present (D) never
B Solution Remotely located, unattended excavations may be left open (unfilled) when the excavation has been barricaded or covered [OSHA 1926.501(b)(7)].
Which of the following marks would you most likely find on the BACK of a lath slope stake? (A) 2:1 (B) 117+50 (C) SE 0.03 (D) F 0^9
B Solution Slope (2:1) and fill (F 09_) need to be seen by the grading operator, so those markings would appear on the front, facing the traveled way. Neither the superelevation nor the station are useful to the grading operator. It is common for superelevation to be written on the side, while the station is written on the back.
What is the meaning of the sideways "K" mark on a lath stake? (A) Cut is required. (B) Fill is required. (C) Neither cut nor fill is required because this is an undisturbed grade. (D) Cut is required on one side of the stake; fill is required on the other side.
B Solution The "K" is an upward-pointing arrow (crow's foot). The horizontal line indicates some unspecified finished grade, and the ∧ can be thought of as meaning a pile of dirt (i.e., fill is required to bring the grade up to the desired level).
A project manager finds a loose sheet of binder paper at a construction job site. The paper contains various numbers, some with abbreviations of BF, CF, SF, WLD, and WHD. The manager should probably make an effort to give the sheet of paper to the (A) engineer/architect (B) contractor (C) utility installer (D) building inspector
B Solution The abbreviations most likely mean board feet (BF), cubic feet (CF), square feet (SF), width × length × depth (WLD), and width × height × depth (WHD). These would appear together on a materials or cost estimation sheet, probably for ordering concrete and formwork lumber. Such a sheet would have been prepared by the contractor.
Highway pavement strength is primarily a function of three of the following. Which one has little effect on strength? (A) slab thickness (B) reinforcing mesh (C) water-cement ratio (D) aggregate strength
B Solution The purpose of reinforcing mesh is to hold the concrete cracks tight and retard their growth. The cross-sectional area of reinforcing mesh steel is small in proportion to the total area of the concrete, so the mesh contributes little to the strength of a slab. (AASHTO Guide for Design of Pavement Structures, (1993) 3.4.3)
What is the minimum distance from the edge of a trench that spoils (excavation material) can be stored? (A) 1 ft (B) 2 ft (C) 3 ft (D) 5 ft
B Spoils can be stored a minimum distance of 2 ft from the edge of a trench [OSHA 1926.651(j)(2)].
The first person to enter an excavation should normally be (A) a competent person (B) any trained person (C) a newly hired person (D) a supervisor
B The first person to enter an excavation must be a trained person. The responsibilities of a competent person (as defined by OSHA) include soil analysis, assigning employee duties, and designing protective systems. However, the first person to enter an excavation does not necessarily have to be a competent person.
The maximum allowable slope for an excavation in type B soil less than 20 ft deep is most nearly (A) 30° (B) 45° (C) 60° (D) 90°
B Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. For a type B soil, the maximum allowable slope is 45° [OSHA 1926 Subpart P, App. B, Table B-1]. [Allowable Slopes]
What is the meaning of the lath stake markings where HP = hinge point? HP φ | \|/ (A) The horizontal line corresponds to the highest point of the grade. (B) A stake is on the centerline of a high pressure gas line. (C) The stake is located at the point where a proposed cut becomes level. (D) Excess soil may be heaped at this point.
C "HP" corresponds to a hinge point, where the grade (e.g., 2:1) on one side of the stake becomes level on the other side.
In excavations of 20 ft depth or less, a type C soil must be sloped no steeper than (A) 1/2H:1V (B) 1H:1V (C) 1-1/2H:1V (D) 2H:1V
C A type C soil must be sloped no steeper than 1-1/2H:1V [OSHA 1926 Subpart P, App. B].
An inexperienced estimator wishes to determine the approximate cost of compacting soil by means of a sheepsfoot roller making 4 passes with 12 in lifts. How should the estimator proceed? (A) contact the state contractor's license board (B) survey equipment rental costs, labor rates, and cost-of-living indices (C) use published resources and cost data (D) contact the local chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America
C Construction costs data are published regularly by several sources, including Engineering News-Record and RSMeans. Other sources and some state transportation departments make similar data available.
In pavement design, what does ESAL stand for? (A) equivalent single annual load (B) equivalent semi axle load (C) equivalent single axle load (D) equivalent separate axle load
C Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. Factors have been developed so that tandem multiple axle loads can be equated to equivalent single axle loads (ESAL). These ESAL values are a common unit of measurement, and their use simplifies calculations for pavement design. [Monthly Adjustment Factor] (AASHTO, Guide for Design of Pavement Structures (1993), 1.4)
For trenching in any type of soil when there is sloping toward the cut, how far must support or shield systems extend above the top of the vertical cut side? (A) 6 in (B) 12 in (C) 18 in (D) 24 in
C Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. Support or shield systems must extend 18 in above the top of the vertical cut side when there is sloping toward the cut [OSHA 1926 Subpart P, App. B, B-1.1, B-1.2, and B-1.3]. [Slope and Shield Configurations]
Time mean speed is (A) the average speed in the middle of a block or highway segment (B) the length of a segment divided by the travel time of several vehicles or trips over the segment (C) the sum of measured spot speeds divided by the number of vehicles measured (D) the value that occurs most frequently in a sample of average speeds along a segment of roadway
C Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. The time mean speed is the average speed of vehicle travel at a single point in time. [Time Mean Speed] (HCM, 6th Ed., Ch. 4, Speed)
Water is observed freely seeping from the exposed sides of a cut. The soil type is most likely to be (A) type A (B) type B (C) type C (D) type D
C Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. Type C soil is most likely to allow water to freely seep from the exposed sides of a cut [OSHA 1926 Subpart P, App. A(b)]. [Determination of Soil Type]
Which of the following formulas for bank volume VB, loose volume VL, compacted volume VC, swell (S), shrinkage (D), and load factor (LF) is NOT correct? (A) VL = (1 + S) × VB (B) VB = LF × VL (C) VC = VL ÷ (1 + S) (D) VC = VB × (1 − D)
C Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. VC = VL ÷ (1+S) is not a correct formula to relate VC to VL. [Excavation and Embankment]
Acceptable means of entering and exiting trenches do NOT include (A) ramps (B) ladders (C) derricks used with fall arrest harnesses (D) jumping down into and climbing out
C Hoisting by derricks with fall arrest harnesses is not an acceptable method for entering and exiting trenches. It is acceptable to jump down into and climb out of trenches less than or equal to 4 ft deep, as well as to use ramps and ladders [OSHA 1926.651(c)(2)].
All of the following are examples of direct or indirect costs EXCEPT (A) payroll taxes for construction labor (B) public liability and property damage insurance (C) corporate income taxes (D) worker's compensation insurance
C Indirect costs include such items as payroll taxes, insurance, employee fringe benefits (e.g., health, vacation, employee insurance, and 401K), employer contributions to social security, unemployment insurance, workers compensation insurance, and public liability and property damage insurance. Direct costs include all items directly related to output production including labor and equipment rentals associated with a project. Income taxes are incurred on profit, after all income and expenses (direct and indirect) have been accounted for.
How far should ladders extend above the edge of an excavation greater than 4 ft deep? (A) 1 ft (B) 2 ft (C) 3 ft (D) 4 ft
C Ladders should extend 3 ft above the edge of an excavation greater than 4 ft deep [OSHA 1926.1053(b)(1)].
Who would normally NOT be parties in a construction contract? (A) architects (B) engineers (C) inspectors (D) contractors
C Solution Construction contracts typically involve contractors, who are responsible for completing the work, and architects and engineers, who are usually responsible for providing the design, answering contractor questions, and reviewing submittals. Inspectors, on the other hand, are usually engaged in a project through a separate contract with the owner (and sometimes the contractor) to verify that the work is completed according to the design documents and codes.
Seeding and mulching a site to reduce erosion makes use of all the following except one. Which one is NOT used? (A) fertilizer (B) erosion control fabric (C) detention basins (D) matting
C Solution Seeding and mulching are performed to improve the topsoil's resistance to runoff and erosion. The plants' roots bind the topsoil while the plants and mulch reduce runoff speed and increase the absorption rate. Its effectiveness is increased by how quickly and safely the plants can grow. Options A, B, and D all promote growth or secure mulch to the ground. Detention basins, however, are used to trap sedimentation by slowing down particulate runoff.
Which of the following duties would normally NOT be a responsibility of the estimating department within a general contractor's organization? (A) obtaining bid documents (B) securing subcontractor/material quotations (C) project cost accounting (D) delivering competitive or negotiated proposals
C The estimation process does not include tracking costs or recording actual expenses.
A 30 ft × 10 ft, 9000 lbf, box-shaped piece of machinery is lifted using a three-cable hoist ring, as shown. Two cables of the hoist are connected to opposite corners of the 10 ft side, and the other cable is connected to the center of the other 10 ft side. The hoist ring is 20 ft directly above the center of the machinery. What are most nearly the forces in hoist cables C1, C2, and C3, respectively? (A) 2300 lbf, 2300 lbf, and 6800 lbf (B) 2500 lbf, 2700 lbf, and 3900 lbf (C) 2900 lbf, 2900 lbf, and 5600 lbf (D) 3000 lbf, 3000 lbf, and 3000 lbf
C The load in each cable can be found by the following steps. step 1: Establish the apex as the origin, O. step 2: Determine the x-, y-, and z-components for cables C1, C2, and C3. By inspection, the coordinates are C1 = (15 ft, 5 ft, −20 ft), C2 = (15 ft, −5 ft, −20 ft), and C3 = (−15 ft, 0 ft, −20 ft). step 3: Find the cable lengths, steps 4 and 5: Find the direction cosine for each cable. step 7: Write the three sum-of-forces equilibrium equations for the apex. Systems of n Forces The solution to these simultaneous equations is FC1 = -2870 lbf FC2= -2870 lbf FC3= -5625 lbf
Accident data is used by traffic engineers to improve roadway safety. The severity of traffic safety hazards at a given site can be determined by the severity ratio, which is a function of which accident categories relative to all accidents? (A) Property damage (B) Fatalities (C) Fatalities and injuries (D) Fatalities, injuries, and property damage
C The severity ratio considers only injuries and fatalities, which are recorded in the OSHA 300 Log, as referenced in 1904.29(b)(1).
A lath stake with the following markings is observed in the vicinity of a pipe feature. 15^00 21+50 18×40 CMP w/2 FL END Which interpretation is not consistent with these markings? (A) The reference point is 15 ft from the pipe. (B) The pipe is 40 ft long and 18 in in diameter. (C) The pipe is steel-reinforced concrete. (D) The pipe has two flared ends.
C The stake markings are interpreted to mean the reference point is 15 ft from the pipe, at station 21+50. The pipe diameter is 18 in, and the length is 40 ft. Corrugated metal pipe with two flared ends is to be used.
Which statement about the design-bid-build project delivery method is true? (A) The owner must hire the lowest bidder, even if they are not qualified to perform the work. (B) Change orders cannot be incorporated into the project once the project is bid. (C) The owner alone cannot execute change orders for the project. (D) The contractor is able to perform additional work without the owner's approval, at the expense of the owner.
C Solution In a design-bid-build project, the owner alone cannot execute change orders. Any change order must be agreed upon by all construction entities working on the project. A contractor is not hired based on bid numbers alone. They must be qualified and have all necessary documentation, as set forth by the contract documents. Once the project is bid, any substantial changes to the project must be completed through change orders. The contractor cannot complete substantial additional work without the execution of a change order.
What is the dilemma zone at a signalized intersection? (A) the center of an intersection where vehicles turning left often wait for an oncoming gap to proceed (B) the area ahead of a stop bar that vehicles often drift into during a red interval, which interferes with left-turning vehicles coming from the right-side approach (C) an area on the approach from which a vehicle can neither stop safely before the intersection stop bar, nor clear the intersection before the red phase starts without speeding up (D) the area of a crosswalk that pedestrians often step into during a red interval while waiting to cross
C Solution Content refers to the NCEES Handbook. A dilemma zone is a location in which a driver is faced with a choice of actions, any of which will make the situation less safe or less desirable. Dilemma zones are caused by the intersection layout and the signal timing, neither of which are under the control of the driver. [Dilemma Zones] The other options described are interference conditions.
To perform as it should, pavement subgrade must meet certain characteristics. Which of the following should not be included in any subgrade soil? (A) material finer than no. 40 sieve (B) material finer than no. 200 sieve (C) fine sand or coral stone (D) clay, silt, or organic material
D Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. Clay, silt, and organic material change greatly in volume as their moisture content varies. [Structural Layer Coefficients] Their fine grain characteristics also allow capillary water to rise in the subgrade, which increases susceptibility to frost in colder regions. Clay in particular has low shear strength when wet, which reduces lateral stability under load. This causes pavements to shift under traffic load, and reduces the bearing strength of pavement layers.
A random sample of backfill is retested for compaction prior to construction. Results show that the water content is -2.5% from optimum and that the in situ dry density is 94% of the maximum dry density. What recommendation should be given for the backfill? (A) retest soil (B) not practical for use (C) accept compaction (D) reject current compaction
D Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. Given that the soil is being retested, use graph B of the figure "Acceptance Criteria for Compaction" from the U.S. Department of Defense. [Acceptance Criteria for Compaction] For a water content that is -2.5% less than optimum and a tested dry weight density that is 94% of the maximum dry density, the acceptance criteria graph says to reject the current compaction.
Which term is NOT used to describe traffic volume? (A) average annual daily traffic (AADT) (B) average daily traffic (ADT) (C) design hour traffic (DHV) (D) traffic directional factor (DF)
D Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. Several terms are used to describe traffic volumes, but DF is not one of them. [Traffic Flow, Density, Headway, and Speed Relationships]
The head loss in a pipe flow can be calculated using (A) the Bernoulli equation. (B) Darcy's law. (C) the Chezy-Manning equation. (D) the Darcy-Weisbach equation.
D Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. The Darcy-Weisbach equation relates head loss in a pipe to velocity, length and diameter, using the friction factor which depends upon the Reynolds number and the relative roughness of the pipe Head Loss Due to Flow (Darcy-Weisbach Equation): h_f= (fLv^2)/(2Dg)
The following data were obtained from a standard soil compaction test. water content (%) dry unit weight (lbf/ft3) 6.0 102.0 10.0 107.0 13.0 109.0 16.0 106.0 19.0 102.0 The soil is to be compacted to a minimum of 95% of the standard maximum dry unit weight and wet of optimum moisture content. What is the minimum and maximum water content that should be used for compaction? (A) -2% to 2% (B) 5% to 20% (C) 10% to 16% (D) 13% to 18%
D Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. The soil is compacted to at least 95% of the maximum dry weight, or 103.6 lbf/ft3. Extending a horizontal line at this unit weight, it is seen that the minimum and maximum water contents for which the minimum specified density can be achieved are about 7% and 18%, respectively. The optimum moisture content is about 13%. Hence, the range of water content that should be used for compaction is 13% to 18%. [Moisture-Density Relationship for Compaction]
Which is NOT true for Gantt charts? (A) For each row, a bar identifies a task, and the length of the bar represents the duration of the task, along with its earliest starting time and its latest finishing time. (B) Slack times can be represented by bars with dotted lines. (C) Suitable for small to midsized projects. (D) They are complex and not suitable for visually communicating with others.
D Gantt charts utilize bars to identify tasks, and their lengths represent their duration. They are a great tool to visually communicate dependencies and slack times.
The percentage of construction accidents due to unsafe behaviors is most nearly (A) 15% (B) 45% (C) 60% (D) 85%
D Human behavior by far has the greatest impact on worker health and safety. At 85%, human behavior is more than five times more likely to cause a construction accident than unsafe conditions (only 15%).
An engineering design firm has a year-long lease on a bucket crane used to inspect construction details at second- and third-floor levels. Into which general ledger account should the cost of the lease be accumulated? (A) rents (B) amortization for leasehold (C) depreciation (D) overhead
D In a general ledger account, "rents" almost always refers to the expense of rental (leased) office space. Leasehold improvements are semi-permanent improvements made to rented (leased) office space, and their costs are amortized over time. Only an owner, not a lessee, can depreciate an asset. The crane is used for all projects, and like other generic costs, its expense should be accumulated into overhead. The design firm may also decide to allocate portions of the crane lease expense to the overhead accounts of each of the projects.
When may plywood be substituted for upright planks as structural members in shoring systems? (A) when the duration of use is less than eight hours (B) when the thickness is greater than in and the plywood is an exterior-glue variety (C) when the plywood carries a "structural" designation (D) never
D Plywood may never be used as a structural member in shoring. It may be included between the soil and the uprights in order to distribute the load [OSHA 1926.652(c)(1) and 1926 Subpart P, App. C].
Which is NOT a characteristic of a qualifications-based bid? (A) There is a trade-off between price and other factors. (B) Evaluation factors and critical subfactors are clearly specified as more important, less important, and equally important. (C) Distinct technical and price proposals are submitted in separate volumes. (D) The price proposal and technical proposal are evaluated by the same team.
D Qualification-based bids recognize that price and quality of work are proportional to each other. Such bids evaluate weighted factors and critical subfactors, and are submitted with technical and price proposal in separate volumes to be reviewed by separate teams or entities.
Non-reinforced concrete pavement is used much more frequently in highways now than in the past. At least two design changes are commonly applied when non-reinforced pavement is used instead of reinforced pavement. One of these is increasing slab thickness. Another is (A) using wider paved lanes to distribute traffic loads better (B) using nonshrink portland cement (C) controlling surface profile more strictly to reduce the impact loads of truck axles (D) spacing the pavement joints closer
D Reinforcing mesh in concrete pavements is primarily used to keep cracks from growing larger. Where this reinforcement is lacking, the slab must be allowed to move to adjust to the effects of cracking. Crack control joints are therefore spaced at about 24 times the slab thickness. In reinforced pavements, by contrast, joints are often spaced at intervals of about 40 ft.
Following the estimating process, a contractor normally adds a markup or margin. This is an allowance for (A) profit (B) general overhead (C) contingency (D) all of the above
D Solution A contractor usually adds a markup or margin to the profit, general overhead, and contingency following the estimating process.
Which of the following is NOT a type of traffic density? (A) critical density (B) jam density (C) flow density (D) population density
D Solution Content in blue refers to the NCEES Handbook. Traffic density, k, is described by several different terms, but population density is not one of them. [Traffic Flow, Density, Headway, and Speed Relationships]
Which is NOT a recognized advantage of the design-bid-build project delivery method? (A) The method is easy to manage and universally understood. (B) The owner has a defined, fully designed project prior to bid. (C) The contract manager's responsibility is to protect the interest of the owner. (D) Delay claims and disputes are uncommon.
D Solution Design-bid-build projects are easily managed, as one company (or a group of companies acting as one entity) is responsible for entire project from design to delivery. The contract manager and owner review designs before the bid portion of the project begins. Disputes related to scope and delay claims due to other trades is still common in design-bid-build projects.
Which is NOT likely to cause an accident in construction? (A) physical and environmental hazards (B) human factors (C) lack of effective safety regulations (D) good communications within, between, and among various trades on the job site Flag< PrevPauseNext >
D Solution Good communication between and within trades on a job site create a safe work environment. Trades can alert other trades where they will be working, hazards they may be encountering during the day, and any precautions that need to be taken.
Which of the following is NOT normally necessary prior to excavating a trench with a backhoe? (A) contacting the utility company or property owner (B) ensuring underground utilities are protected and supported (C) determining the soil type by a competent person (D) notifying the local OSHA office
D Solution OSHA is not notified prior to excavating [OSHA 1926.651(b)].
A contractor's decision to bid is affected by the bidding climate, a term that does NOT apply to (A) the contractor's bonding capacity (B) the owner's reputation and financial soundness (C) the completion date (D) construction loan interest rates
D Solution The bidding climate is affected by the following factors: bonding capacity considerations, location of project, severity of contractual terms (contractor responsibilities and liabilities), identity of the owner and owner's financial status, identity of the architect/engineer, nature and size of project as it relates to company experience and equipment, labor conditions and availability, and completion date. Construction loan interest rates will affect an owner's decision to build the project, but the contractor does not generally care how the owner finances the project as long as it is not through nonpayment.
Which of the following is NOT normally part of a construction contract? I. invitation to bid II. instructions to bidders III. general conditions IV. supplementary conditions V. copy of liability insurance policy VI. technical specifications VII. drawings VIII. addenda IX. proposals X. bid bond XI. agreement XII. performance bond XIII. labor and material payment bond XIV. nondisclosure agreement (A) I (B) II (C) V (D) XIV
D Solution The construction contract includes many items, some explicit only by reference. A nondisclosure agreement is not normally part of the construction contract.
When a competent person performs an inspection of an excavation site, the inspection does NOT need to include checking for (A) likelihood of collapse and cave-in (B) hazardous atmosphere (C) hazardous condition (D) first-responder response time
D The daily inspection by a competent person does not have to determine how fast emergency personnel can arrive at the site [OSHA 1926.32(f) and 1926.651(k)(1)].
The four-foot rule (A) refers to a means of escape from an excavation (B) says that a means of escape must be provided if an excavation is more than 4 ft deep (C) dictates an exit must be within 25 ft of every worker (D) all of the above
D The four-foot rule says that a means of escape must be provided if an excavation is more than 4 ft deep and that an exit must be within 25 ft of every worker [OSHA 1926.651(c)(2)].
Which statements about the assignment of material resistance factors to yield and rupture cases are true when using the load and resistance factor design (LRFD) method? I. There is greater probability of yield failure than rupture failure. II. The reliability index associated with yield failure is lower than that of rupture failure. (A) I only (B) II only (C) both statements (D) neither statement
D The lower value of the strength reduction factor for rupture is an indication that the variation of rupture resistance (measured as the standard deviation of resistance values) is greater than that of yield resistance. Statement I is false. In the load and resistance factor design (LRFD) method, the probability of failure is calibrated by using a constant reliability index of β = 3.0. Statement II is false.
An engineer designs a project and prepares the construction drawings and specifications. These are then sent out for bidding, and the lowest bid is selected. What method of project delivery is being used? (A) design-build (B) management contracting (C) multiple-prime (D) design-bid-build
D The project delivery method described in the problem statement is a typical design-bid-build method.
In shored construction, which factors do NOT influence the length of time between pouring concrete and stripping the forms? I. weather II. project specifications III. developed concrete strength IV. recommendations from the applicable code (ACI 347R, Guide to Formwork for Concrete) V. project schedule VI. local ordinances
D Solution The length of time that formwork is left on before being stripped is an engineering decision, under the jurisdiction of the project engineer. Guidance to the contractor will be placed in the project specifications. The engineer will consider various factors when writing the specifications, including developed concrete strength and loading. ACI 347R recommendations may be considered in some situations when the actual requirements are difficult to determine. The specifications may have options dependent on the local temperature, the need to remove insulating formwork, or to cool the concrete during curing. The project schedule and local ordinances should not be permitted to dictate the time between pouring concrete and stripping the forms.
Earthwork volume calculations must take into account shrinkage and swell, which refer to the changes in unit volume of the displaced materials from their natural state to their state in the compacted fill. The volume of fill required from a borrow pit (A) is not affected by the amount of swell (B) increases as swell increases (C) is not affected by the amount of shrinkage (D) increases as shrinkage increases
D Volume change is conventionally considered to be negative when it is shrinkage and positive when it is swell. When soil in a compacted fill has greater density than it does in its natural state in a borrow pit, the compacted fill is said to shrink. This shrinkage means the soil takes up less volume in the fill. To compensate for this, the volume of borrow fill must be increased.
A nuclear density gauge is UNABLE to measure which of the following without the target density programmed into it? (A) wet density (B) dry density (C) moisture content (D) degree of compaction
Solution The target density is used by the nuclear gauge only to calculate the degree of compaction that has been achieved. The gauge will still give wet density, dry density, moisture, and percent moisture results without the target density entered.
