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ESDS THEORY TEST
INFORMATION
Emergency Services Driving Standard
re
ESDS Theory Test Information
ESDS Structure and Content
ESDS Level and category specific theory tests are part of the ESDS
Certification process in order to check the understanding of the
theory within the ESDS Publications and reference material.
The purpose of this booklet is to inform ESDS candidates of what to
expect when they are studying to sit an ESDS Theory Test.
1
ESDS Theory Test Information
ESDS Structure
ESDS Level 1
This is the entry level and sets out to describe the training, learning and
assessment that will produce competent, socially responsible Emergency Service
Drivers. The Level 1 Standard will not entitle a driver to drive under ’blue light’
conditions but is pitched at a level above that attained at the RSA state driving
test. This level does not extend to driving vehicles while exercising exemptions
under road traffic legislation.
ESDS Level 2
This level describes the training, learning and assessment for emergency service
drivers and includes the principles and skills set of “Roadcraft”. Roadcraft is
a recognised system of vehicle control in the training of Emergency Service
Drivers that develops a methodical approach to driving hazards and increases
safety by giving the driver more time to react in complex situations. Level 2 is
an intermediate standard which will not facilitate driving under ‘blue light’
conditions but builds on Level 1 and is aimed at producing a much higher skilled
driver. This level does not extend to driving vehicles while exercising exemptions
under road traffic legislation.
ESDS Level 3
Level 3 is the highest standard and includes response driving i.e. driving under
‘blue light’ conditions and exercising exemptions as allowed under road traffic
legislation. Level 3 builds substantially on Level 2 and describes the training,
learning and assessment for Emergency Service Drivers to achieve and maintain
competence at the highest level of safe and competent response driving.
2
ESDS Theory Test Information
3
ESDS Structure and Content
ESDS Level 1
ESDS Level 2
ESDS Level 3
Module 1: Before
driving emergency
service vehicles
Module 4: Recognise,
manage and avoid
risk
Module 7: Managing
emergency response
Module 2: Driving
emergency service
vehicles
Module 5: Vehicle
Control
Module 8: Driving
standards and vehicle
assessment
Module 6: Control in
traffic situations
Module 9: Emergency
response driving
Module 3: The
fundamentals of
road sharing
Practical Assessment and Theory Test
(Level and Vehicle specific)
ESDS Level 1
Certificate
ESDS Level 2
Certificate
ESDS Level 3
Certificate
ESDS Theory Test Information
4
ESDS Learning Documents
The following is a list of relevant training material which will support your
preparation for the ESDS Theory Test.
• www.rsa.ie/esds
• ESDS Information Booklet
Related Documents
• ESDS Guidance Manual
 ESDS Information Booklet
• ESDS Competence Framework
 ESDS Guidance Manual
• ESDS Syllabus
• ESDS Standard Operating Procedures
and Marking Guidelines
 ESDS Competence
Framework
• ESDS Trainers Handbook
 ESDS Syllabus
• ESDS Drivers Guide
 ESDS Standard Operating
procedures and Marking
Guidelines
• ESDS Tactical Response
• www.rulesoftheroad.ie
• Rules of the road
 ESDS Trainer Handbook
 ESDS Drivers Guide
• Roadcraft (Purchase On Line)
• Relevant Road Traffic Legislation
• RSA publications and website
• RSA Guide-Keeping your commercial
vehicle roadworthy
• Learning to drive a truck
 ESDS Tactical Response
Guidelines
ESDS Theory Test Information
5
ESDS Theory Test Levels and
Category Options
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
LEVEL 1 CORE
LEVEL 2 CORE
LEVEL 3 CORE
B, BE, W
B, BE, W
B, BE, W
Elements of Level 1 Core
Elements of Level 1 Core
Roadcraft
Elements of Roadcraft
Emergency Response
50 multiple choice
questions for ESDS
Level 1 Core
80 multiple choice
questions made up of:
100 multiple choice
questions made up of:
• 30 ESDS Level 1 Core
• 30 ESDS Level 1 Core
• 50 ESDS Level 2 Core
• 40 ESDS Level 2 Core
• 30 ESDS Level 3 Core
Candidate must have completed the relevant core theory test (above) before
proceeding onto the below modules:
Truck Module
Bus Module
Trainer Module
30 multiple choice
questions specifically
for Truck.
30 multiple choice
questions specifically for
Bus.
40 multiple choice
questions specifically for
Trainers.
ESDS Theory Test Information
6
ESDS Theory Tests
Theory Test Title
Category
Covered
Duration
Number of
Questions
ESDS Core Level 1
(B, BE, W)
1hr 15mins
50
ESDS Core Level 2
(B, BE, W)
2hrs
80
ESDS Core Level 3
(B, BE, W)
2hrs
100
Category
Covered
Duration
Number of
Questions
ESDS Truck Module
(C1, C, C1E, CE)
1hr
30
ESDS Bus Module
(D1, D, D1E, DE)
1hr
30
All Categories
1hr
40
Additional ESDS Theory Test Modules
Theory Test Title
ESDS Trainer Module*
*Specific to trainer applications only
A candidate must complete the relevant core theory test prior to practical
assessment along with the relevant additional module if required
ESDS Theory Test Information
7
ESDS Theory Tests
Level 1 Core
100
Questions
Total
Level 1 Core
Theory Test
Level 2 Core Theory Test
30 Questions
50 Questions
Level 3 Core Theory Test
30 Questions
40 Questions
30 Questions
e.g. Theory Test requirement at Level 2 in Category B Completes 80 Question - Level 2 Core Theory Test.
e.g. Theory Test requirement at Level 2 in Category CCompletes 80 Question - Level 2 Core Theory Test and
Truck Module - 30 Questions
Trainer Module
40 Questions
50 Questions
Bus Module
30 Questions
80
Questions
Total
Level 3 Core
Truck Module
30 Questions
50
Questions
Total
Level 2 Core
ESDS Theory Test Information
8
ESDS Core Level 1
ESDS Core Level 1
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Modules 1-3
ESDS Core Level 1
1hr 15 Mins
50
50 multiple choice questions from ESDS Level 1 Standard
(Modules 1-3).
Reference Material:
• Rules of the Road
• Relevant ESDS Publications
• Relevant Road Traffic Legislation
• RSA publications and website
ESDS Theory Test Information
9
ESDS Core Level 1
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Modules 1-3
ESDS Core Level 1
1hr 15 Mins
50
Module 1
ESDS Core Level 1
Before Driving
Emergency
Services Vehicles
• Legislation relevant to driving
emergency services vehicles
• Administrative Aspects of Driving
• Preparing for a Journey
• Vehicle Safety and Technical Checks
ESDS Theory Test Information
10
ESDS Core Level 1
ESDS Core Level 1
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Modules 1-3
ESDS Core Level 1
1hr 15 Mins
50
Module 2
• Pre Start Routine
• In Vehicle Technology Systems
Driving Emergency
Services Vehicles
• Communication Signs & Signals
• Correct Positioning on the Road
• Primary Controls
• Secondary Controls
ESDS Theory Test Information
11
ESDS Core Level 1
ESDS Core Level 1
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Modules 1-3
ESDS Core Level 1
1hr 15 Mins
50
• Sharing the Road
Module 3
• Managing Speed
• Anticipation and Reactions
The Fundamentals
of Road Sharing
• Driving in adverse weather conditions
• Driving in an Eco – Efficient Manner
• Changing Direction
• Night Driving
• Driving Calmly
ESDS Theory Test Information
12
ESDS Core Level 1 –
Sample Questions
What should a driver do when approaching a junction normally
controlled by traffic lights and the traffic lights are not lighting?
A. Proceed smartly through the junction to avoid delay.
B.
Stop at the junction and give way to traffic on the left.
C.
Treat the junction as an unmarked junction and proceed cautiously while
watching out for other traffic.
D.
Switch on hazard warning lights and proceed.
Answer (C)
On a regional road, is it permitted to move into the hard shoulder to
allow following traffic to overtake?
A. No, it is never permitted to drive on a hard shoulder except in the case of an
emergency.
B.
Yes, temporarily when the hard shoulder is clear and it is safe to drive there
while the faster traffic overtakes.
C.
Yes, when a truck or bus is oncoming.
D.
No, except on ‘2-plus-1 roads’.
Answer (B)
ESDS Theory Test Information
13
ESDS Core Level 2
ESDS Core Level 2
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Modules 1-6
ESDS Core Level 2
2hr
80
80 multiple choice questions consisting of:
• 30 Questions ESDS Level 1 standard (Modules 1-3)
• 50 Questions ESDS Level 2 standard (Modules 4-6)
Reference Material:
• Rules of the Road
• Relevant ESDS Publications
• Roadcraft publication
• Relevant Road Traffic Legislation
• RSA publications and website
ESDS Theory Test Information
14
ESDS Core Level 2
ESDS Core Level 2
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Modules 4-6
ESDS Core Level 2
2hr
80
Module 4
• Mental Skills for Better Driving
Recognise,
Manage and
Avoid Risks
• Intelligent Use of Speed
• Advanced Observation and
Anticipation Techniques
• Dynamic Risk Assessment
ESDS Theory Test Information
15
ESDS Core Level 2
ESDS Core Level 2
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Modules 4-6
ESDS Core Level 2
2hr
80
Module 5
• System of Vehicle Control
Vehicle
Control
• Skill of Vehicle Control
• Controlling Vehicle Stability
• Use and Interpretation of Driving
Signals
ESDS Theory Test Information
16
ESDS Core Level 2
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Modules 4-6
ESDS Core Level 2
2hr
80
Module 6
ESDS Core Level 2
• Advantageous Positioning
Control in
Traffic
Situations
• Principles of Cornering
• Overtaking: Planning and Techniques
• Multi-lane Roadways
ESDS Theory Test Information
ESDS Core Level 2 –
Sample Questions
According to the Roadcraft Handbook, what is meant by
“Red Mist”?
A. When a driver become involved in a dispute with another road user.
B.
When driving a vehicle under emergency conditions and encountering
inclement weather.
C.
The haze emitting from a vehicle’s engine after having been driven at high
speed for a period of time.
D.
The driver has become emotionally and physiologically caught up in a
specific goal.
Answer (D)
The Roadcraft handbook states that when the brake/gear overlap
is used, it
A. makes the car stable for a short period of time.
B.
must be part of a planned approach to a hazard.
C.
allows the driver to compensate for poor road conditions.
D.
should only be to slow the vehicle down on slippery road surfaces.
Answer (B)
17
ESDS Theory Test Information
18
ESDS Core Level 3
ESDS Core Level 3
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Modules 1-9
ESDS Core Level 3
2hr
100
100 multiple choice questions consisting of:
• 30 Questions ESDS Level 1 standard (Modules 1-3)
• 40 Questions ESDS Level 2 standard (Modules 4-6)
• 30 Questions ESDS Level 3 standard (Modules 7-9)
Reference Material:
• Rules of the Road
• Relevant ESDS Publications
• Roadcraft publication
• Relevant Road Traffic Legislation
• RSA publications and website
ESDS Theory Test Information
19
ESDS Core Level 3
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Modules 7-9
ESDS Core Level 3
2hr
100
Module 7
ESDS Core Level 3
• Mental Skills for Response Driving
Managing
Emergency
Response
• Evaluate Response Need
• Dynamic Risk Assessment
• Emergency Route Planning
ESDS Theory Test Information
20
ESDS Core Level 3
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Modules 7-9
ESDS Core Level 3
2hr
100
Module 8
ESDS Core Level 3
Driving Standards
and Vehicle
Assessment
• Maintains Driving Standards
• Vehicle Assessment for Response
ESDS Theory Test Information
21
ESDS Core Level 3
ESDS Core Level 3
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Modules 7-9
ESDS Core Level 3
2hr
100
• Sharing the Road
Module 9
• Managing Speed
Emergency
Response
Driving
• Anticipation and Reactions
• Driving in adverse weather conditions
• Driving in an Eco – Efficient Manner
• Changing Direction
• Driving Calmly
ESDS Theory Test Information
ESDS Core Level 3 –
Sample Questions
As per ESDS Tactical Response Guidelines, Emergency Response is
defined as driving when using any of the exemptions afforded by
the relevant legislation
A. and/or the use of lights and sirens.
B.
and/or the use of emergency warning equipment.
C.
and the use of lights and sirens to facilitate progress.
D.
and/or the use of emergency warning equipment to facilitate progress.
Answer (D)
The decision to utilise emergency equipment lies with
A. the ESV Driver.
B.
the passenger.
C.
the radio controller.
D.
a trained ESV passenger.
Answer (A)
22
ESDS Theory Test Information
23
ESDS Truck Module
ESDS Truck Module
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Category C1, C, C1E, CE
ESDS Truck Module
1hr
30
30 multiple choice questions relevant to vehicles
in Category C1, C, C1E, CE.
The Theory test is generic across ESDS Levels
Reference Material:
• Rules of the Road
• ESDS Publications (Level 1 – Modules 1-3)
• Relevant Road Traffic Legislation
• RSA publications and website
ESDS Theory Test Information
24
ESDS Truck Module
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Category C1, C, C1E, CE
ESDS Truck Module
1hr
30
Truck Module
ESDS Truck Module
Before driving
Emergency
Services Vehicles
• Preparing for a Journey
• Vehicle Safety and Technical Checks
ESDS Theory Test Information
25
ESDS Truck Module
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Category C1, C, C1E, CE
ESDS Truck Module
1hr
30
Truck Module
ESDS Truck Module
• Pre Start Routine
Driving
Emergency
Service Vehicles
• In Vehicle Technology Systems
• Communication Signs & Signals
• Correct Positioning on the Road
• Primary Controls
ESDS Theory Test Information
26
ESDS Truck Module
ESDS Truck Module
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Category C1, C, C1E, CE
ESDS Truck Module
1hr
30
Truck Module
• Sharing the Road
• Managing Speed
• Anticipation and Reactions
The Fundamentals
of Road Sharing
• Driving in adverse weather conditions
• Driving in an Eco – Efficient Manner
• Changing Direction
• Driving Calmly
ESDS Theory Test Information
27
ESDS Truck Module –
Sample Questions
Which of the following is more advantageous in stabilising a highsided vehicle in windy conditions?
A. Having no load.
B.
Having a full load.
C.
Having a light load.
D.
Moving the heaviest part of the load to the front of the vehicle.
Answer (B)
What does this sign mean?
A. No entry for vehicles over (3.0 t).
B.
No entry for vehicles with 3 axles.
C.
Maximum permitted length of vehicle (3.0 m).
D.
Minimum permitted length of vehicle is (3.0m).
Answer (A)
3t
ESDS Theory Test Information
28
ESDS Bus Module
ESDS Bus Module
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Category D1, D, D1E, DE
ESDS Bus Module
1hr
30
30 multiple choice questions relevant to
vehicles in Category D1, D, D1E, DE.
The Theory test is generic across ESDS Levels
Reference Material:
• Rules of the Road
• ESDS Publications (Level 1 – Modules 1-3)
• Relevant Road Traffic Legislation
• RSA publications and website
ESDS Theory Test Information
29
ESDS Bus Module
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Category D1, D, D1E, DE
ESDS Bus Module
1hr
30
Bus Module
ESDS Bus Module
Before driving
Emergency
Services Vehicles
• Preparing for a Journey
• Vehicle Safety and Technical Checks
ESDS Theory Test Information
30
ESDS Bus Module
ESDS Bus Module
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Category D1, D, D1E, DE
ESDS Bus Module
1hr
30
Bus Module
• Pre Start Routine
• In Vehicle Technology Systems
Driving Emergency
Service Vehicles
• Communication Signs & Signals
• Correct Positioning on the Road
• Primary Controls
ESDS Theory Test Information
31
ESDS Bus Module
ESDS Bus Module
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
Category D1, D, D1E, DE
ESDS Bus Module
1hr
30
• Sharing the Road
Bus Module
• Managing Speed
• Anticipation and Reactions
The Fundamentals
of Road Sharing
• Driving in adverse weather conditions
• Driving in an Eco – Efficient Manner
• Changing Direction
• Driving Calmly
ESDS Theory Test Information
ESDS Bus Module –
Sample Questions
What is the maximum Design Gross Vehicle Weight of a trailer that
a driver can tow on a full Category D Licence?
A. 550kg.
B.
750kg.
C.
3500kg.
D.
4250kg.
Answer (B)
What precaution should a driver take when allowing passengers
to alight from a bus or minibus?
A. Make sure that the oncoming traffic is stopped before opening the door.
B.
Make sure that the passengers exit on the side away from the centre
of the road.
C.
Ask the passengers to alight as quickly as possible.
D.
Watch for traffic in the rear-view mirror and advise the passengers when
to get out.
Answer (B)
32
ESDS Theory Test Information
33
ESDS Trainer Module
ESDS Trainer Module
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
ESDS Trainer
ESDS Trainer Module
1hr
40
40 multiple choice questions relevant to the role of an ESDS Trainer.
The Theory test is generic across all categories of vehicles
Reference Material:
• Rules of the Road
• Relevant ESDS Publications
• Relevant Road Traffic Legislation
• RSA publications and website
ESDS Theory Test Information
34
ESDS Trainer Module
ESDS Trainer Module
Theory Test
Duration
Questions
ESDS Trainer
ESDS Trainer Module
1hr
40
• The ESDS Registered Trainer
• Driving Emergency Service Vehicles
• Delivery of Learning
• Assessment and Feedback
• Service Delivery
ESDS Theory Test Information
ESDS Trainer –
Sample Questions
What should a ESDS Trainer remember when giving a
demonstration?
A. The demonstration should follow an explanation of the skill.
B.
The use of demonstration as a teaching method is ineffective.
C.
The demonstration should precede the explanation of the skill.
D.
The demonstration should be given after the driver has tried the skill.
Answer (A)
During feedback with a driver, questioning is a good way of
A. minimising conversation and rapport.
B.
remaining vague and maintaining a negative bias.
C.
targeting aspects of driving that cannot be changed.
D.
confirming that the driver has understood what has been taught.
Answer (D)
35
Údarás Um Shábháilteacht Ar Bhóithre
Road Safety Authority
Páirc Ghnó Ghleann na Muaidhe, Cnoc an tSabhaircín,
Bóthar Bhaile Átha Cliath,Béal an Átha, Co. Mhaigh Eo.
Moy Valley Business Park, Primrose Hill,
Dublin Road, Ballina, Co. Mayo.
locall: 1890 40 60 40 tel: (096) 25 000
fax: (096) 78 290
email: [email protected]
website: www.rsa.ie/esds
Version 1. August 2015.