Here are the theory test questions for A12 Excavator 180 above 5 tonnes.
During the theory test you'll be asked a maximum of 40 questions.
Please note that your paper will include all the questions we have marked here with an asterisk *. In addition you will have a random selection of the other questions that are not marked here with an asterisk.
These questions will appear on every A12 paper
Before lowering into or moving a pipe into a trench, what trench-related checks must be made? (2 marks)*
The operator has been asked to drive the machine onto a transporter/trailer.
a) Who is responsible for the loading operations and
b) state FOUR actions to be considered by the operator before loading commences? (5 marks)*
The operator is asked to excavate a new trench. State FIVE different requirements that must be considered or implemented before work commences. (5 marks)*
If setting up to work in a pedestrianised area, state THREE factors that need to be taken into account. (3 marks)*
What factors determine the shoring requirements of a trench? (2 marks)*
Name FOUR possible functions of a multi-purpose clamshell bucket (excluding the forks). (4 marks)*
What is regarded as the most productive position for the dump truck or tipper to be in when being loaded with a 180 excavator working from a stockpile? (1 marks)*
If using the forks to lift loads, what machine-related information is needed? (1 marks)*
When travelling, why should the rear boom and extending dipper (if fitted) be locked? (4 marks)*
Explain ALL visual checks that must be carried out on all types of quick-hitch bucket attaching systems before use. (4 marks)*
On stabiliser-equipped machines, what must be checked before the stabilisers are lowered? (3 marks)*
If a yellow-coloured marker tape is unearthed during excavating, which TWO types of services could this indicate? (4 marks)*
If the excavator is carrying out deep excavating work using the full working range, what hazard may occur? (1 marks)*
What is the nearest distance allowed to gas pipes when excavating with the machine? (3 marks)*
Why must excavator operators not begin to load vehicles until the forward-tipping dumper driver is clear of their machine? (1 marks)*
A random selection of these questions will appear on each A12 paper
Why should different soils be segregated during excavating? (1 marks)
If fitted, describe ONE application when the hand throttle can safely be used. (1 marks)
The operator is asked to tip material into a trench. State FIVE different requirements that must be considered or implemented before tipping commences. (5 marks)
Describe ONE physical method of checking that a bucket is fully secured to the quick-hitch coupler prior to work. (4 marks)
In what situation does a hard hat NOT need to be worn when operating a 180 excavator? (2 marks)
On a semi-automatic quick-hitch bucket attaching system:
a) what is the purpose of the safety pin and
b) what checks MUST be made to the pin before use? (3 marks)
The operator has to fit and use a new bucket using a quick-hitch coupler that they are unfamiliar with. What do Regulations (i.e. PUWER 98) and other guidance require the operator to have? (3 marks)
If a load is lifted using the backhoe unit that is in line with the machine, when slewing the load fully to the left or right, the machine can become unstable. Explain why. (3 marks)
Cable avoidance tools (CATs) can detect a variety of buried services. What type of material do they have limitations in locating? (2 marks)
With regards to lifting accessories, irrespective of who supplied the accessories, what THREE factors should be ensured before the accessories are used? (3 marks)
a) When should 4-wheel drive not be selected and
b) explain why? (2 marks)
If loading a tipper vehicle, who should determine the maximum load that should be placed into the body? (1 marks)
a) What is the minimum distance allowed near open trenches when travelling with a loaded front bucket and
b) explain why? (2 marks)
a) What determines the minimum distances that any part of plant and machinery has to be kept from over head electricity lines and
b) explain why a distance should be kept. (4 marks)
Give TWO examples of where The Work at Height Regulations may apply to 180 excavator operations. (2 marks)
If setting up to excavate in a confined area, name TWO things that should be taken into account before starting. (2 marks)
Give TWO reasons why, wherever possible, operators should excavate the ground in layers. (2 marks)
If checking the oil level using a dipstick, why must gloves be worn? (1 marks)
Explain a possible danger if the excavator is lifting a load on sloping ground, even though the load chart indicates that the machine can lift that load. (2 marks)
Before leaving the cab for a rest break, after parking and switching off the machine, what final action must be carried out? (2 marks)
After shutting down the engine, why should the hydraulic operating levers be cycled? (1 marks)
Give THREE reasons why an oversize bucket should not be used when excavating trenches to specification. (3 marks)
What is a possible consequence of using a tyre with a deep cut in the sidewall? (1 marks)
During work, the engine starts to overheat.
Explain the danger if someone tries to remove the radiator or expansion tank cap. (2 marks)
If a trench has a depth of 2 metres:
a) What is the minimum distance to maintain from the edge of the trench when placing spoil and
b) explain why? (2 marks)
When must amber flashing beacons be both fitted and activated? (2 marks)
If the operator has to top-up the hydraulic oil, state TWO precautions to ensure cleanliness of the system. (2 marks)
a) Name THREE purposes of the treads on tyres and b) what can happen to an excavator if the treads are severely worn? (4 marks)
When parking the machine at the end of the shift, name THREE places where the machine should NOT be parked. (3 marks)
What is the purpose of a roll or ROPS frame? (2 marks)
Name TWO types of equipment used to ensure that excavation levels, measurements and positions are to the required specification. (2 marks)
Before manually changing any bucket:
a) Where should the bucket be positioned (in relation to the ground) before removing the final pin and
b) explain why? (2 marks)
Give FOUR reasons that may cause the excavator to tip over sideways. (4 marks)
Why should an excavator be re-fuelled at the end of the day? (1 marks)
If the operator has loaded the machine onto a transporter/trailer on behalf of a driver, what checks must be carried out before they leave the cab? (2 marks)
What makes up the total (or gross) weight of a load that is to be lifted? (3 marks)
Describe TWO actions to be taken for an open trench at the end of a working day. (2 marks)
Why must the seat belt be worn, even with the cab door closed? (2 marks)
What particular and specific hazards can affect the stability of the machine when working on old industrial (brownfield) sites? (2 marks)
End of questions for A12 Excavator 180 above 5 tonnes
