Here are the theory test questions for A56 Dump Truck - Articulated Chassis.
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 A56 paper
On articulated dump trucks, steering is achieved by actuating a hydraulic ram (or rams) which is controlled by turning the steering wheel.
a) How does the engine supply the oil flow and
b) what happens to the steering when the engine stops? (2 marks)*
Operators should lower the body fully before driving away. Give TWO possible consequences if this is not carried out. (4 marks)*
State the purpose of a heated body. (1 marks)*
What is a (a) good working practice regarding the use of the retarder pedal during travel and (b) what factors can affect the performance of the retarder? (3 marks)*
What is regarded as the most productive position for the dump truck to be in when being loaded by a wheeled loading shovel working from a stockpile? (1 marks)*
The operator is asked to tip material into a new trench. State FIVE different requirements that must be considered or implemented before tipping commences. (5 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? (3 marks)*
State TWO requirements of using a stop block or earth bank (berm) at a trench discharging point. (4 marks)*
a) For dump trucks equipped with compressed air reservoirs for braking, why might they need routine 'bleeding/ discharge? b) What is the recommended safe working practice whilst carrying this out? (4 marks)*
The rear axle units on most dump trucks pivot on the chassis. Explain the reason for pivoting axles. (2 marks)*
Under what condition can the Parking Brake be used as an emergency "one off" brake and what should occur "post use"? (2 marks)*
Explain the difference between interaxle (longitudinal) and tranverse (axle) differential locks. (2 marks)*
What are the advantages of using inclinometers whilst tipping? (1 marks)*
What should you do if the dumptruck starts 'gear hunting'? (2 marks)*
What is the recommended good practice in the activation of the exhaust brake (1 marks)*
A random selection of these questions will appear on each A56 paper
The operator has to use a new type of dump truck that they are unfamiliar with. What do Regulations (i.e. PUWER 98) and other guidance require the operator to have? (3 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)
If the operator has to top-up the hydraulic oil, state TWO precautions to ensure cleanliness of the system. (2 marks)
Give TWO reasons why the dump truck operator should have an understanding of the type of spoil being transported. (2 marks)
Why must the seat belt be worn at all times, even with the cab door closed? (2 marks)
Who should determine the maximum load that should be placed into the body of the dump truck? (1 marks)
When travelling on wet clay, what effect does this have on the dump truck? (2 marks)
Why should tail gates not be fitted when transporting bulky or rock-type material? (2 marks)
Whenever possible, who should decide the positioning of the dump truck for loading? (1 marks)
When parking the machine at the end of the shift, name THREE places where the dump truck should NOT be parked. (3 marks)
Give THREE possible reasons why dump trucks should not stray off the designated haul routes. (3 marks)
What problems and hazards can soft ground cause to a loaded dump truck? (1 marks)
When would the body safety strut or support be used? (1 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)
If checking the oil level using a dipstick, why must gloves be worn? (1 marks)
When tipping a load, the centre of gravity of the machine changes.
a) How does this affect the dump truck and
b) state TWO actions to avoid accidents. (4 marks)
When working in a confined area or space, what danger can be present with an articulated dump truck with regards to steering? (1 marks)
The function or job role of a dump truck operator, when transporting loads, is to? (2 marks)
Why should a dump truck be re-fuelled at the end of the day? (1 marks)
Give TWO examples of where The Work at Height Regulations may apply to dump trucks. (2 marks)
If setting up to work in a pedestrianised area, state THREE factors that need to be taken into account. (3 marks)
If the operator has loaded the machine onto a transporter/trailer on behalf of a driver, state THREE actions that must be carried out before they leave the machine. (3 marks)
If a load has to be tipped on a slope, what may happen if the load is tipped downhill and why? (2 marks)
In what situation does a hard hat NOT need to be worn when operating a dump truck? (2 marks)
When working in a confined area or space, name THREE hazards that can occur. (3 marks)
a) Name THREE purposes of the treads on tyres and b) what can happen to a dump truck if the treads are severely worn? (4 marks)
a) Give ONE advantage and
b) TWO disadvantages of rear-mounted cameras. (3 marks)
What is the purpose of a ROPS cab? (2 marks)
a) Why should the body of the dump truck be raised slowly/carefully especially with wet or sticky material and
b) what would be a consequence if this was not done? (3 marks)
a) What is the minimum distance allowed near open trenches when travelling with a dump truck and
b) explain why? (2 marks)
What is a possible consequence of using a tyre with a deep cut in the sidewall? (1 marks)
Many dump trucks have a turbo-charged engine.
a) What is the normal procedure before switching off the engine after working and
b) what happens if the procedure is not followed? (2 marks)
A dump truck is classified by a manufacturer as a 30-tonne machine.
What does this mean? (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)
End of questions for A56 Dump Truck - Articulated Chassis
