20 Practice Questions for the Massachusetts CSL Exam PDF

### **20 Practice Questions for the Massachusetts CSL Exam** **Question 1\ ** What is the maximum riser height allowed for residential stairs?\ A. 7 1/4\"\ B. 7 3/4\"\ C. 8 1/4\"\ D. 9\" C R311.7.5 **Question 2\ ** Which document governs the requirements for fire retardant-treated wood in Massac...

### **20 Practice Questions for the Massachusetts CSL Exam** **Question 1\ ** What is the maximum riser height allowed for residential stairs?\ A. 7 1/4\"\ B. 7 3/4\"\ C. 8 1/4\"\ D. 9\" C R311.7.5 **Question 2\ ** Which document governs the requirements for fire retardant-treated wood in Massachusetts?\ A. IBC\ B. IRC\ C. ASTM D3201\ D. AAB **Question 3\ ** How often must first aid kits on a construction site be inspected?\ A. Daily\ B. Weekly\ C. Monthly\ D. Twice weekly B weekly **Question 4\ ** What is the maximum extension length of a platform less than 10 feet in length over its support?\ A. 12 inches\ B. 10 inches\ C. 16 inches\ D. 8 inches A **Question 5\ ** What is the U-factor for steel-framed ceilings in unconditioned spaces in Massachusetts?\ A. 0.026\ B. 0.030\ C. 0.025\ D. 0.020 A **Question 6\ ** What is the required minimum thickness of a concrete slab for residential floors?\ A. 3 inches\ B. 3 1/2 inches\ C. 4 inches\ D. 5 inches B **Question 7\ ** How far above finished grade must masonry foundation walls extend without veneer?\ A. 4 inches\ B. 6 inches\ C. 8 inches\ D. 12 inches A **Question 8\ ** What is the flame spread index limit for concealed insulation?\ A. 200\ B. 450\ C. 25\ D. 400 C **Question 9\ ** What is the minimum ventilation requirement for underfloor crawl spaces?\ A. 1 square foot per 100 square feet\ B. 1 square foot per 150 square feet\ C. 1 square foot per 200 square feet\ D. 1 square foot per 50 square feet B **Question 10\ ** According to the AAB, what is the minimum requirement for parking spaces for a lot with 15 spaces?\ A. 1 accessible space\ B. 2 accessible spaces\ C. 3 accessible spaces\ D. 4 accessible spaces A **Question 11\ ** What is the allowable slope for low-slope roofs?\ A. 1:12\ B. 2:12\ C. 3:12\ D. 4:12 B **Question 12\ ** What is the flame spread index requirement for fire-retardant treated wood?\ A. 25\ B. 50\ C. 75\ D. 100 25 **Question 13\ ** What is the maximum length of a hallway in a sprinklered Group B building?\ A. 300 feet\ B. 200 feet\ C. 250 feet\ D. 350 feet A **Question 14\ ** What is the required guardrail height for patios more than 30 inches above grade?\ A. 36 inches\ B. 30 inches\ C. 42 inches\ D. 48 inches C **Question 15\ ** What is the maximum air leakage for windows under the IRC?\ A. 0.30 cfm per square foot\ B. 0.25 cfm per square foot\ C. 0.20 cfm per square foot\ D. 0.35 cfm per square foot A **Question 16\ ** What is the correct moisture content for interior fire-retardant-treated wood under ASTM D3201?\ A. 25%\ B. 28%\ C. 30%\ D. 32% B **Question 17\ ** What is the minimum distance required between a combustion air intake opening and a property line?\ A. 10 feet\ B. 5 feet\ C. 15 feet\ D. 8 feet A **Question 18\ ** What is the minimum bearing length of wood joists on masonry?\ A. 1 1/2 inches\ B. 2 inches\ C. 3 inches\ D. 4 inches B **Question 19\ ** What is the maximum distance for control joints in a concrete basement floor?\ A. 10 feet\ B. 20 feet\ C. 30 feet\ D. 40 feet C **Question 20\ ** What type of accessibility compliance is required for new public buildings, including houses of worship?\ A. Entrance only\ B. Bathroom only\ C. Full compliance\ D. Pathway to entrance\ \ C ### **Answer Key:** 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. ### **20 Additional Practice Questions for the Massachusetts CSL Exam** **Question 1\ ** What is the minimum width for egress doors in residential construction?\ A. 28 inches\ B. 30 inches\ C. 32 inches\ D. 36 inches D **Question 2\ ** What is the maximum height for a stairway rise in residential construction?\ A. 8 1/4 inches\ B. 7 3/4 inches\ C. 6 3/4 inches\ D. 8 inches **Question 3\ ** How far apart must fire extinguishers be placed in a construction site?\ A. Every 50 feet\ B. Every 100 feet\ C. Every 75 feet\ D. Every 150 feet **Question 4\ ** What is the minimum headroom clearance required for stairways?\ A. 6\'4\"\ B. 6\'6\"\ C. 6\'8\"\ D. 7\' **Question 5\ ** In Type V construction, what is the maximum height for a structure without a sprinkler system?\ A. 2 stories\ B. 3 stories\ C. 1 story\ D. 4 stories **Question 6\ ** What is the minimum compressive strength for concrete used in footings?\ A. 2000 psi\ B. 2500 psi\ C. 3000 psi\ D. 3500 psi **Question 7\ ** When is a fire-resistant-rated wall required between a garage and a dwelling?\ A. Always\ B. When the garage is attached\ C. Only for new construction\ D. Only for detached garages **Question 8\ ** How many accessible parking spaces are required for a parking lot with 100 spaces?\ A. 2\ B. 4\ C. 5\ D. 6 **Question 9\ ** What is the minimum height for handrails in stairways?\ A. 30 inches\ B. 32 inches\ C. 34 inches\ D. 36 inches **Question 10\ ** How far apart must anchor bolts be spaced in a sill plate?\ A. 6 feet\ B. 8 feet\ C. 10 feet\ D. 4 feet **Question 11\ ** What is the required slope for drainage away from a building foundation?\ A. 2%\ B. 5%\ C. 3%\ D. 1% **Question 12\ ** What is the maximum flame spread index for wall coverings in a means of egress?\ A. 25\ B. 50\ C. 75\ D. 100 **Question 13\ ** What is the maximum span for \#4 rebar in concrete without additional support?\ A. 4 feet\ B. 5 feet\ C. 6 feet\ D. 7 feet **Question 14\ ** What is the maximum height for a retaining wall before an engineer\'s design is required?\ A. 4 feet\ B. 5 feet\ C. 6 feet\ D. 8 feet **Question 15\ ** What is the minimum thickness for exterior walls in residential construction?\ A. 3 inches\ B. 4 inches\ C. 5 inches\ D. 6 inches **Question 16\ ** What is the allowable height for smoke detectors from the floor to the ceiling?\ A. 8 feet\ B. 10 feet\ C. 12 feet\ D. 15 feet **Question 17\ ** What is the minimum number of exits required for an assembly room with a 500-person capacity?\ A. 1\ B. 2\ C. 3\ D. 4 **Question 18\ ** What is the maximum number of risers allowed in a single flight of stairs?\ A. 14\ B. 15\ C. 16\ D. 18 **Question 19\ ** What is the maximum allowable U-factor for residential windows in Massachusetts?\ A. 0.35\ B. 0.30\ C. 0.40\ D. 0.50 **Question 20\ ** What is the minimum air exchange rate for mechanical ventilation systems in homes?\ A. 0.25 ACH\ B. 0.35 ACH\ C. 0.50 ACH\ D. 0.60 ACH ### **Answer Key and Code References:** 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. ### **Focus Area References:** - - - - - - ### **20 Practice Questions on Energy Efficiency Code (Focus on Massachusetts)** **Question 1\ ** What is the minimum R-value for attic insulation in Massachusetts for new residential construction?\ A. R-30\ B. R-38\ C. R-49\ D. R-60 **Question 2\ ** What is the minimum R-value for wood-frame walls in Massachusetts for new residential construction?\ A. R-13\ B. R-15\ C. R-20\ D. R-21 or 13+5 **Question 3\ ** What is the maximum U-factor for windows in new residential construction in Massachusetts?\ A. 0.40\ B. 0.35\ C. 0.30\ D. 0.25 **Question 4\ ** What is the required air leakage rate for a home to pass the blower door test in Massachusetts?\ A. 3 ACH at 50 Pascals\ B. 5 ACH at 50 Pascals\ C. 7 ACH at 50 Pascals\ D. 10 ACH at 50 Pascals **Question 5\ ** What is the minimum R-value for floors over unconditioned spaces in Massachusetts?\ A. R-19\ B. R-25\ C. R-30\ D. R-38 **Question 6\ ** What is the minimum R-value for basement walls in unconditioned spaces in Massachusetts?\ A. R-10\ B. R-15\ C. R-19\ D. R-20 **Question 7\ ** What is the required insulation level for ducts in unconditioned spaces in Massachusetts?\ A. R-6\ B. R-8\ C. R-10\ D. R-12 **Question 8\ ** What is the minimum R-value for crawl space walls in Massachusetts?\ A. R-10\ B. R-13\ C. R-15\ D. R-19 **Question 9\ ** What is the maximum solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) for windows in Massachusetts?\ A. 0.25\ B. 0.30\ C. 0.35\ D. 0.40 **Question 10\ ** What is the maximum U-factor for skylights in Massachusetts?\ A. 0.40\ B. 0.45\ C. 0.50\ D. 0.55 **Question 11\ ** In a two-zone HVAC system, what is the minimum efficiency required for furnaces in Massachusetts?\ A. 78% AFUE\ B. 80% AFUE\ C. 90% AFUE\ D. 95% AFUE **Question 12\ ** What is the minimum energy factor (EF) for gas-fired water heaters in Massachusetts?\ A. 0.65\ B. 0.67\ C. 0.70\ D. 0.75 **Question 13\ ** What type of insulation is required for hot water pipes in unconditioned spaces in Massachusetts?\ A. R-2\ B. R-3\ C. R-4\ D. R-5 **Question 14\ ** What is the required minimum lighting efficiency for permanently installed lighting in new construction in Massachusetts?\ A. 50% high-efficacy\ B. 75% high-efficacy\ C. 90% high-efficacy\ D. 100% high-efficacy **Question 15\ ** In Massachusetts, how much of the home's energy consumption must come from renewable sources to qualify for a zero-energy-ready designation?\ A. 25%\ B. 50%\ C. 75%\ D. 100% **Question 16\ ** How far must vapor barriers be installed from the warm-in-winter side of the insulation in Massachusetts?\ A. At least 3 inches\ B. On the warm side\ C. At least 5 inches\ D. No vapor barrier is required **Question 17\ ** What is the minimum insulation level required for slab-on-grade floors in Massachusetts?\ A. R-5 for 2 feet\ B. R-10 for 2 feet\ C. R-15 for 4 feet\ D. R-20 for 4 feet **Question 18\ ** What is the minimum required ventilation rate for new residential construction in Massachusetts?\ A. 0.25 ACH\ B. 0.35 ACH\ C. 0.50 ACH\ D. 0.60 ACH **Question 19\ ** What is the maximum allowable leakage for ducts in unconditioned spaces in Massachusetts?\ A. 4%\ B. 5%\ C. 6%\ D. 8% **Question 20\ ** How much solar-ready zone space is required on a roof for new residential construction in Massachusetts?\ A. 150 square feet\ B. 175 square feet\ C. 200 square feet\ D. 250 square feet ### **Answer Key with Code References** 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. These questions are tailored to test your knowledge of Massachusetts-specific energy efficiency codes as well as general IECC requirements. Let me know if you'd like to refine or expand on any section! These questions target critical areas for the Massachusetts CSL exam and provide precise references for further study. Let me know if you'd like additional questions! Unrestricted Construction Supervisor Administrative Responsibilities 8 **24 Questions: Unrestricted Construction Supervisor Administrative Responsibilities** ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 1 ** What is the primary responsibility of an unrestricted construction supervisor? A. Designing the project B. Overseeing on-site safety only C. Supervising the construction process to ensure code compliance D. Completing all legal documentation for the owner ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 2 ** What is the required action when a change to the approved building plans is made? A. Notify the building inspector immediately B. Proceed with the change if it doesn't affect structural elements C. Obtain approval from the architect only D. Update the permit application at the end of the project ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ **Question 3 ** Who is responsible for ensuring subcontractors adhere to safety regulations on-site? A. Project owner B. General contractor C. Construction supervisor D. OSHA representative --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 4 ** What must be done if a construction site generates excessive noise during restricted hours? A. Request a variance from local authorities B. Stop work and move to quieter tasks C. Notify the neighbors and proceed D. Limit work to the inside of the building ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 5 ** What documentation must a construction supervisor maintain on-site at all times? A. The contractor's personal license B. Original building permit and approved plans C. Payment receipts for materials D. Homeowner's insurance policy ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ **Question 6 ** What must be done if hazardous materials, such as asbestos, are discovered during construction? A. Report it to OSHA and hire a licensed abatement contractor B. Continue work as normal and document it for later C. Inform the homeowner and wait for their decision D. Remove the materials yourself using standard safety equipment ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 7 ** When must a building permit be renewed? A. Every year B. When work hasn't commenced within six months C. When the project scope changes D. Every time inspections are delayed --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 8 ** Who is responsible for scheduling inspections at key project milestones? A. Subcontractor in charge of the task B. The property owner C. The unrestricted construction supervisor D. The building department ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 9 ** What is the maximum fine for failing to comply with Massachusetts State Building Code as an unrestricted supervisor? A. \$1,000 per violation B. \$500 per day C. \$2,000 per violation D. \$10,000 total per project ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 10 ** When can work on a construction site commence? A. Once the contractor submits their license information B. After securing a building permit C. When the subcontractors arrive on-site D. Once materials are delivered -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 11 ** Who enforces compliance with local zoning laws? A. The unrestricted construction supervisor B. The property owner C. The zoning board D. The building inspector -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 12 ** What is the minimum notification period for abutters prior to excavation in Massachusetts? A. 7 days B. 10 days C. 14 days D. No notification is required -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 13 ** What must be done if an adjacent property is damaged during construction? A. Document the damage and proceed B. Immediately repair the damage C. Notify the building inspector and the property owner D. Halt work until a resolution is reached ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 14 ** What is required before demolishing an existing structure? A. A written agreement from neighbors B. Verification of utility disconnections C. Approval from the subcontractor in charge D. Site cleanup only after the demolition -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 15 ** Which of the following is required during the hiring of subcontractors? A. Verifying subcontractor licenses and insurance B. Securing materials for the subcontractor C. Providing safety equipment for subcontractors D. Handling payroll for subcontractor employees --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 16 ** What must be done if unexpected conditions arise during foundation excavation? A. Proceed with the foundation as planned B. Adjust the plans and inform the property owner later C. Stop work and consult a structural engineer D. Fill in the area and abandon the foundation plan ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 17 ** How often should the construction supervisor inspect work for code compliance? A. Only during key milestones B. At the end of the project C. Regularly, throughout the project D. During inspections scheduled by the building inspector --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 18 ** What must be posted at the construction site? A. A copy of the construction supervisor's license B. The approved building plans and permit C. A contact list of subcontractors D. A project timeline --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 19 ** What is required to maintain compliance with OSHA regulations? A. Weekly safety audits B. Documentation of all jobsite injuries C. Personal training for supervisors only D. Displaying the OSHA poster on-site -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 20 ** How must construction debris be managed? A. It can be burned on-site with a permit B. It must be disposed of in accordance with local regulations C. It can be left on-site until the end of the project D. It must be stored in an on-site dumpster indefinitely ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 21 ** When is an unrestricted construction supervisor required to hire a design professional? A. For every structural project B. When structural modifications are made to an existing building C. For cosmetic repairs only D. For single-story additions --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 22 ** What is the maximum slope allowed for temporary construction ramps? A. 10% B. 8% C. 12% D. 15% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Question 23 ** What is required when working near power lines? A. Notify the utility company and maintain a safe distance B. Use insulated tools only C. Proceed carefully without touching the lines D. Install scaffolding far away from the power lines ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ **Question 24 ** What action must be taken if water infiltration occurs during construction? A. Stop work and address the issue immediately B. Wait for the infiltration to subside naturally C. Notify the building inspector at the next inspection D. Document it and proceed with construction -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ### **Answer Key:** 1. **C. Supervising the construction process to ensure code compliance** --- \[Massachusetts State Building Code, 9th Edition, Chapter 1, Section 110\] ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2. **A. Notify the building inspector immediately** --- \[IBC Section 105.4\] -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3. **C. Construction supervisor** --- \[OSHA 1926.16\] --------------------------------------------------- 4. **A. Request a variance from local authorities** --- \[Massachusetts Noise Ordinances and Zoning Laws\] ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5. **B. Original building permit and approved plans** --- \[IBC Section 105.7\] ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6. **A. Report it to OSHA and hire a licensed abatement contractor** --- \[OSHA 1926.1101\] ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7. **B. When work hasn't commenced within six months** --- \[IBC Section 105.5\] ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8. **C. The unrestricted construction supervisor** --- \[Massachusetts State Building Code, Chapter 1, Section 110\] ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9. **A. \$1,000 per violation** --- \[Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 143, Section 94\] ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10. **B. After securing a building permit** --- \[IBC Section 105.1\] ----------------------------------------------------------------- 11. **C. The zoning board** --- \[Massachusetts Zoning Act, Chapter 40A\] --------------------------------------------------------------------- 12. **B. 10 days** --- \[Massachusetts Excavation Regulations, Chapter 82, Section 40\] ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13. **C. Notify the building inspector and the property owner** --- \[IBC Section 3307.1\] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14. **B. Verification of utility disconnections** --- \[OSHA 1926.850\] ------------------------------------------------------------------- 15. **A. Verifying subcontractor licenses and insurance** --- \[Massachusetts State Building Code, Section 110.3\] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 16. **C. Stop work and consult a structural engineer** --- \[IBC Section 1803.5\] ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17. **C. Regularly, throughout the project** --- \[IBC Section 110.3\] ------------------------------------------------------------------ 18. **B. The approved building plans and permit** --- \[IBC Section 105.7\] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 19. **D. Displaying the OSHA poster on-site** --- \[OSHA 1903.2\] ------------------------------------------------------------- 20. **B. It must be disposed of in accordance with local regulations** --- \[Massachusetts Solid Waste Regulations, 310 CMR 19.000\] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 21. **B. When structural modifications are made to an existing building** --- \[IBC Section 107.3.4\] ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22. **C. 12%** --- \[OSHA 1926 Subpart D\] -------------------------------------- 23. **A. Notify the utility company and maintain a safe distance** --- \[OSHA 1926.1408\] ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24. **A. Stop work and address the issue immediately** --- \[IBC Section 3307.2\] ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- General Building Construction Knowledge 11 ------------------------------------------ Energy Efficiency 6 ------------------- Accessibility 4 --------------- Sitework and Foundations 7 -------------------------- Concrete and Masonry 9 ---------------------- Moisture Intrusion/Protection 7 ------------------------------- Structural Framing (Steel and Wood) 13 -------------------------------------- Roofing/Exterior Walls 7 ------------------------ Doors/Windows 5 --------------- Interior Environment (Mechanical and Ventilation) 7 --------------------------------------------------- Fire Protection (Mechanical) 5 ------------------------------ Safety (Construction Safety and Lead Remediation) 11 ----------------------------------------------------