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INTERMEDIATE LEVEL

Tell me about a time when you had to handle a safety incident or emergency involving surveying operations near critical infrastructure. How did you respond?

Surveyor Interview Questions
Tell me about a time when you had to handle a safety incident or emergency involving surveying operations near critical infrastructure. How did you respond?

Sample answer to the question

I once had to handle a safety incident during a surveying operation near critical infrastructure. We were mapping a construction site near a high-voltage powerline. While setting up our equipment, one of our team members accidentally made contact with the powerline, resulting in a dangerous situation. I immediately took charge and ensured everyone's safety. I instructed the team to stay away from the area and called emergency services and the power company. I also provided first aid to the injured team member while waiting for help to arrive. After the incident, I conducted a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the incident and implemented measures to prevent similar accidents in the future.

A more solid answer

During a surveying operation near critical infrastructure, we encountered a safety incident involving a gas pipeline. As part of our pre-survey preparations, we did a thorough analysis of the area to identify potential hazards. However, during the survey, we accidentally hit the pipeline with our equipment, causing a minor gas leak. I immediately assessed the situation and instructed the team to evacuate the area, ensuring everyone's safety. I contacted the gas company and emergency services to report the incident and requested their assistance. While waiting for their arrival, I used my problem-solving skills to minimize further damage by shutting off nearby valves. I also communicated with the gas company representative to provide them with details of the incident and our actions. After the incident, I initiated a review of our safety procedures and implemented additional measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides specific details about the incident, the candidate's response, and their skills and abilities. It addresses most of the evaluation areas mentioned in the job description. However, it could still be improved by including more specific examples of the candidate's communication and time management skills.

An exceptional answer

During a surveying operation near critical infrastructure, we faced a safety incident involving a highway overpass. As we were conducting the survey, we noticed that the overpass was showing signs of structural damage, posing a potential risk to passing vehicles. I immediately contacted the appropriate authorities, including the Department of Transportation and the local police, to report the issue and request immediate action. While waiting for their arrival, I directed my team to set up caution signs and barricades to divert traffic away from the area. I also communicated with the project stakeholders, including the construction company and the client, to provide them with real-time updates and seek their guidance. Throughout the incident, I demonstrated strong leadership skills, coordinating the efforts of my team and collaborating with different parties involved to ensure public safety. After the incident, I conducted a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the structural damage and recommended preventative measures to avoid similar incidents in the future.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by providing specific details of a safety incident involving critical infrastructure. The candidate's response demonstrates their strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, ability to work outdoors and in different weather conditions, and effective time management skills. The answer also showcases the candidate's leadership qualities, collaboration skills, and their commitment to preventing future incidents.

How to prepare for this question

  • Familiarize yourself with safety regulations and best practices related to surveying operations near critical infrastructure.
  • Research past incidents or emergencies in the industry and learn from them to understand the potential risks and necessary precautions.
  • Practice discussing a specific incident from your past experience that relates to surveying operations near critical infrastructure. Focus on highlighting your problem-solving skills, communication abilities, and ability to handle high-pressure situations.
  • Prepare examples that demonstrate your attention to detail in surveying operations and your ability to work effectively in different weather conditions.
  • Review the job description and identify specific skills required for the role of a surveyor, especially those related to safety and problem-solving. Be ready to provide examples of how you have demonstrated those skills in the past.

What interviewers are evaluating

  • Analytical thinking and attention to detail
  • Excellent practical and problem-solving skills
  • Strong communication and interpersonal abilities
  • Ability to work outdoors and in different weather conditions
  • Time management skills to handle multiple projects simultaneously

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