Holding the Class 4 Hazardous Materials Handler qualification provides a significant advantage in workplaces handling combustible liquids. Obtaining this qualification allows you to demonstrate specialized knowledge and skills demanded in gas stations, chemical plants, and many other industries. It enhances your credibility at work, enabling you to take on responsible roles. Often, obtaining this qualification is a legal requirement, establishing your position as a key person in workplace safety.
In this article, we explore the difficulty of the Class 4 Hazardous Materials Handler exam in Japan.
Objective of the Exam
The exam aims to measure knowledge about the properties of hazardous materials and their safe handling practices. It specifically tests for knowledge related to fire prevention, explosion mitigation, and emergency responses associated with hazardous materials. Through this exam, the goal is to develop professionals capable of managing the risks involved in handling hazardous substances, thereby supporting workplace and public safety.
Eligibility to Take the Exam
There are no specific eligibility requirements. Anyone can take the exam as many times as needed. Foreign nationals living in Japan can also take the exam, but it is conducted in Japanese, so a basic proficiency in the language is necessary.
Scope and Format of the Exam
The exam consists of 35 multiple-choice questions and lasts for two hours. It is divided into three categories:
- Legal regulations concerning hazardous materials (15 questions): Tests knowledge of the legal framework governing hazardous materials.
- Basic physics and science (10 questions): Focuses on the fundamental properties and scientific principles of materials.
- Properties of hazardous materials and fire prevention and firefighting measures (10 questions): Covers the chemical properties, fire prevention techniques, and initial firefighting responses.
Passing Criteria
In the Class 4 Hazardous Materials Handler exam, you must score at least 60% in each category to pass. You must meet the individual passing standards for each part of the exam, not just achieve an overall score.
- Legal regulations concerning hazardous materials (at least 9 out of 15 correct answers).
- Basic physics and science (at least 6 out of 10 correct answers).
- Properties of hazardous materials and fire prevention and firefighting measures (at least 6 out of 10 correct answers).
Pass Rate and Difficulty of the Exam
In the year Reiwa 5 (2023), out of 230,400 candidates, 64,387 passed, resulting in a pass rate of 31.4%. The low pass rate is often due to many candidates taking the exam due to corporate or educational institution mandates, with many not being self-motivated and therefore underprepared.
The content of the exam itself can be thoroughly understood and mastered with proper preparation. Given the consistent format and scope of the exam, a well-prepared candidate can definitely aim to pass. The qualification’s difficulty level is considered to be moderate, with a “qualification deviation value” between 45 and 50, making it relatively easy to obtain. Moreover, it is a highly cost-effective qualification as it directly correlates to income and employment opportunities.
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