Year 2 Exam Study Guide — master what the exam actually tests, concept by concept.
Construction sites are one of the most hazardous work environments in Canada. Fall protection, scaffold safety, struck-by and caught-in hazards are among the leading causes of fatalities. This section ensures you can identify hazards, apply controls, and know the regulations that protect workers.
BUR: mopped built-up system; each ply provides waterproofing and strength. Safety regulations exist because the consequences of ignoring them are severe — injury, death, or legal liability. Know these requirements the way you know your own name.
Membranes: TPO (heat-seamed), EPDM (glued), PVC (chemically resistant) for different environments. On the job, a solid grasp of this concept means faster decisions, fewer errors, and work that passes inspection the first time.
Flashings: critical at walls (stepped), vents (proper height), drains (funnel to drain). Safety regulations exist because the consequences of ignoring them are severe — injury, death, or legal liability. Know these requirements the way you know your own name.
Underlayment: ice/water shield at eaves, felt or synthetic elsewhere; critical for durability. On the job, a solid grasp of this concept means faster decisions, fewer errors, and work that passes inspection the first time.
Building codes, fire codes, and workplace regulations define the minimum standards that protect occupants and workers. These aren't guidelines — they're legal requirements. Knowing your applicable codes means fewer failed inspections, less rework, and a professional reputation that lasts.
Standing seam: concealed fasteners, mechanical locks allow expansion/contraction. On the job, a solid grasp of this concept means faster decisions, fewer errors, and work that passes inspection the first time.
Slope: steep (fast drainage, slate/wood), shallow (need underlayment, TPO/EPDM), minimum 4:12 for shingles. On the job, a solid grasp of this concept means faster decisions, fewer errors, and work that passes inspection the first time.
Construction materials have specific strengths, limitations, and proper applications. Choosing the wrong adhesive, fastener, or structural member isn't just a quality issue — it can be a structural failure waiting to happen. Know your materials.
SBS: flexible, torch or heat-welded; APP: rigid, torch-applied; different properties. On the job, a solid grasp of this concept means faster decisions, fewer errors, and work that passes inspection the first time.
Seaming: TPO heat-weld strongest, EPDM tape/adhesive, PVC heat or adhesive. On the job, a solid grasp of this concept means faster decisions, fewer errors, and work that passes inspection the first time.
Valleys: open (efficient drainage), closed (aesthetic), woven (strong but labor-intensive). Material selection directly affects performance, code compliance, and longevity. Using the wrong type can fail an inspection or create a hazard down the line.
Fastening: nails grip, adhesive strip seals and bonds; prevents wind damage. On the job, a solid grasp of this concept means faster decisions, fewer errors, and work that passes inspection the first time.
All 10 exam concepts from this guide — test your recall before you sit the exam.