Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) Practice Test 2025 – All-in-One Study Guide for Exam Success!

The primary responsibility of the designated above-ground duty person according to OSHA regulations is to maintain a head count of personnel working underground. This role is critical in ensuring the safety of workers by having an accurate account of who is in the hazardous environment at any given time. Knowing the number of personnel underground is essential for effective emergency response, particularly in situations where evacuations or rescue operations may be necessary.

This responsibility is reinforced by OSHA's emphasis on accountability and the importance of communication between the above-ground personnel and those working underground. If an emergency were to occur, having an accurate head count allows for swift action and ensures that all personnel can be accounted for, reducing the risk of leaving anyone behind.

The other options, while important in their own context, do not align with the primary responsibilities outlined for this specific role. Protecting equipment, training new workers, and inspecting emergency equipment are all valuable for maintaining safety protocols, but they do not encapsulate the key focus of the above-ground duty person's role as defined by OSHA.