California Custodian Certification Exam Questions
and Correct Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of using a microfiber cloth in custodial
cleaning tasks? A. To absorb large amounts of liquid quickly B. To attract and hold dust and
dirt through electrostatic action C. To disinfect surfaces with chemical residue D. To polish
metal fixtures to a high shine
CORRECT ANSWER: B. To attract and hold dust and dirt through electrostatic action
Rationale: Microfiber cloths are designed with fine fibers that create a positive charge
when rubbed, effectively trapping dust and small particles without spreading them, making
them ideal for dry dusting in California custodial standards for efficient and low-residue
cleaning.
Question 2: According to Cal/OSHA regulations, what must custodians do before using
any chemical cleaner? A. Mix it with bleach for stronger effect B. Read the Safety Data
Sheet (SDS) for hazards and handling instructions C. Apply it directly to skin for testing D.
Store it in an unmarked container
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Read the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for hazards and handling
instructions Rationale: Cal/OSHA requires custodians to review SDS for proper PPE,
ventilation, and emergency procedures to prevent exposure and ensure safe use of
hazardous materials in the workplace.
Question 3: Which floor type requires the use of a neutral cleaner to avoid damage? A.
Concrete B. Marble or terrazzo C. Rubber matting D. Outdoor asphalt
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Marble or terrazzo Rationale: Neutral cleaners maintain the pH
balance necessary to preserve the integrity of sensitive stone surfaces like marble and
terrazzo, which are common in California public buildings.
Question 4: What is the correct procedure for handling a blood spill in a custodial
setting? A. Wipe it up immediately with bare hands B. Use PPE, absorb with disposable
materials, disinfect, and dispose as biohazard C. Cover it with sawdust and sweep later D.
Spray with water and mop normally
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Use PPE, absorb with disposable materials, disinfect, and
dispose as biohazard Rationale: Bloodborne pathogen protocols under California
regulations mandate personal protective equipment, proper containment, and regulated
waste disposal to prevent disease transmission.
,Question 5: How often should high-touch surfaces like door handles be cleaned in a
high-traffic California school building? A. Once per week B. Daily or multiple times daily
C. Only when visibly dirty D. Monthly during deep cleans
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Daily or multiple times daily Rationale: Frequent cleaning of
high-touch areas reduces germ transmission, aligning with public health guidelines for
educational facilities in California.
Question 6: What is the recommended dilution ratio for a standard all-purpose
cleaner? A. 1:1 with water B. Follow manufacturer label instructions, typically 1:32 or as
specified C. Undiluted for maximum strength D. 1:100 for light use
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Follow manufacturer label instructions, typically 1:32 or as
specified Rationale: Proper dilution ensures effectiveness, cost-efficiency, and safety,
preventing residue buildup or surface damage as per custodial best practices.
Question 7: Which tool is best for cleaning cobwebs from high ceilings? A. Standard
mop head B. Extension pole with duster attachment C. Vacuum without extension D. Broom
with stiff bristles
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Extension pole with duster attachment Rationale: Extension
poles allow safe reach without ladders, reducing fall risks in line with Cal/OSHA safety
standards for elevated cleaning.
Question 8: What should a custodian do if a chemical spill occurs on their skin? A.
Ignore it if minor B. Immediately flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention if
needed C. Apply another chemical to neutralize D. Wipe with a dry cloth
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Immediately flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical
attention if needed Rationale: Rapid flushing removes the contaminant, minimizing injury
as required by emergency response protocols in custodial training.
Question 9: In California, what is a key requirement for recycling programs in
custodial operations? A. Ignore recyclables to save time B. Separate paper, plastics, and
cans according to local ordinances C. Burn waste on-site D. Mix all trash together
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Separate paper, plastics, and cans according to local
ordinances Rationale: Compliance with California's recycling laws promotes
environmental sustainability and avoids fines for improper waste management.
Question 10: What type of gloves should be worn when handling acidic cleaners? A.
Cotton gloves B. Nitrile or chemical-resistant gloves C. Latex gloves only D. No gloves
needed
,CORRECT ANSWER: B. Nitrile or chemical-resistant gloves Rationale: Nitrile provides
superior resistance to many chemicals, protecting skin as per PPE guidelines in Cal/OSHA
standards.
Question 11: Why is it important to empty trash receptacles daily? A. To allow odors to
build for testing B. To prevent overflow, odors, and pest attraction C. Only if they are full D.
To save on liner costs
CORRECT ANSWER: B. To prevent overflow, odors, and pest attraction Rationale:
Daily emptying maintains hygiene and prevents health hazards in California facilities.
Question 12: What is the proper way to store cleaning equipment after use? A. Leave
wet mops in buckets B. Clean, rinse, and hang mops to dry in a well-ventilated area C. Store
in sealed plastic bags D. Pile in a corner
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Clean, rinse, and hang mops to dry in a well-ventilated area
Rationale: Proper drying prevents mold and bacterial growth, ensuring equipment
longevity and safety.
Question 13: Which method is best for cleaning glass windows without streaks? A. Use
paper towels and circular motions B. Apply cleaner and squeegee vertically then
horizontally C. Spray heavily and let air dry D. Use abrasive pads
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Apply cleaner and squeegee vertically then horizontally
Rationale: Squeegeeing in straight lines removes solution efficiently without leaving
residue for a streak-free finish.
Question 14: What does the term "green cleaning" refer to in custodial contexts? A.
Using only green-colored products B. Environmentally friendly products and methods that
reduce toxicity C. Cleaning only green spaces D. Rapid cleaning techniques
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Environmentally friendly products and methods that reduce
toxicity Rationale: Green cleaning aligns with California's sustainability initiatives to
minimize environmental impact.
Question 15: How should a custodian respond to a slippery floor warning sign? A.
Remove the sign immediately B. Place the sign, clean the area, and leave until dry C. Ignore
and continue mopping D. Cover with carpet
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Place the sign, clean the area, and leave until dry Rationale:
Warning signs prevent slips and falls, a major concern addressed in Cal/OSHA workplace
safety rules.
Question 16: What is the correct order for cleaning a restroom? A. Floor first, then
fixtures B. Top to bottom: mirrors, sinks, toilets, floors last C. Random order D. Bottom to top
, CORRECT ANSWER: B. Top to bottom: mirrors, sinks, toilets, floors last Rationale:
Cleaning from top to bottom prevents re-contaminating cleaned surfaces with debris from
higher areas.
Question 17: Which vacuum feature is essential for HEPA filtration in allergen-
sensitive areas? A. Blower function B. High-efficiency particulate air filter C. Cordless
design D. Wet pickup capability
CORRECT ANSWER: B. High-efficiency particulate air filter Rationale: HEPA filters trap
fine particles, improving indoor air quality per California health standards.
Question 18: What is prohibited when using floor buffers? A. Wearing non-slip shoes B.
Operating without proper training or guards C. Using on dry floors D. Emptying the solution
tank regularly
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Operating without proper training or guards Rationale:
Training and safety guards prevent injuries from moving parts under Cal/OSHA equipment
standards.
Question 19: Why use color-coded cloths in cleaning? A. For aesthetic appeal B. To
prevent cross-contamination between areas C. To match room decor D. To identify
ownership
CORRECT ANSWER: B. To prevent cross-contamination between areas Rationale:
Color-coding (e.g., red for restrooms) ensures hygiene by designating specific uses.
Question 20: In California, what must be included in a custodian's incident report for
injuries? A. Only the time of day B. Date, time, description, witnesses, and actions taken C.
Personal opinions on fault D. Unrelated facility details
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Date, time, description, witnesses, and actions taken
Rationale: Accurate reporting supports workers' compensation claims and safety
improvements per state regulations.
Question 21: What is the best way to dispose of used razor blades found in trash? A.
Throw in regular trash B. Place in a puncture-proof sharps container C. Recycle with plastics
D. Flush down toilet
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Place in a puncture-proof sharps container Rationale: Proper
sharps disposal prevents needlestick injuries as mandated by bloodborne pathogen
standards.
Question 22: Which cleaner is appropriate for stainless steel surfaces? A. Abrasive
scouring powder B. Mild detergent or stainless steel-specific cleaner C. Bleach solution D.
Vinegar undiluted
and Correct Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of using a microfiber cloth in custodial
cleaning tasks? A. To absorb large amounts of liquid quickly B. To attract and hold dust and
dirt through electrostatic action C. To disinfect surfaces with chemical residue D. To polish
metal fixtures to a high shine
CORRECT ANSWER: B. To attract and hold dust and dirt through electrostatic action
Rationale: Microfiber cloths are designed with fine fibers that create a positive charge
when rubbed, effectively trapping dust and small particles without spreading them, making
them ideal for dry dusting in California custodial standards for efficient and low-residue
cleaning.
Question 2: According to Cal/OSHA regulations, what must custodians do before using
any chemical cleaner? A. Mix it with bleach for stronger effect B. Read the Safety Data
Sheet (SDS) for hazards and handling instructions C. Apply it directly to skin for testing D.
Store it in an unmarked container
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Read the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for hazards and handling
instructions Rationale: Cal/OSHA requires custodians to review SDS for proper PPE,
ventilation, and emergency procedures to prevent exposure and ensure safe use of
hazardous materials in the workplace.
Question 3: Which floor type requires the use of a neutral cleaner to avoid damage? A.
Concrete B. Marble or terrazzo C. Rubber matting D. Outdoor asphalt
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Marble or terrazzo Rationale: Neutral cleaners maintain the pH
balance necessary to preserve the integrity of sensitive stone surfaces like marble and
terrazzo, which are common in California public buildings.
Question 4: What is the correct procedure for handling a blood spill in a custodial
setting? A. Wipe it up immediately with bare hands B. Use PPE, absorb with disposable
materials, disinfect, and dispose as biohazard C. Cover it with sawdust and sweep later D.
Spray with water and mop normally
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Use PPE, absorb with disposable materials, disinfect, and
dispose as biohazard Rationale: Bloodborne pathogen protocols under California
regulations mandate personal protective equipment, proper containment, and regulated
waste disposal to prevent disease transmission.
,Question 5: How often should high-touch surfaces like door handles be cleaned in a
high-traffic California school building? A. Once per week B. Daily or multiple times daily
C. Only when visibly dirty D. Monthly during deep cleans
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Daily or multiple times daily Rationale: Frequent cleaning of
high-touch areas reduces germ transmission, aligning with public health guidelines for
educational facilities in California.
Question 6: What is the recommended dilution ratio for a standard all-purpose
cleaner? A. 1:1 with water B. Follow manufacturer label instructions, typically 1:32 or as
specified C. Undiluted for maximum strength D. 1:100 for light use
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Follow manufacturer label instructions, typically 1:32 or as
specified Rationale: Proper dilution ensures effectiveness, cost-efficiency, and safety,
preventing residue buildup or surface damage as per custodial best practices.
Question 7: Which tool is best for cleaning cobwebs from high ceilings? A. Standard
mop head B. Extension pole with duster attachment C. Vacuum without extension D. Broom
with stiff bristles
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Extension pole with duster attachment Rationale: Extension
poles allow safe reach without ladders, reducing fall risks in line with Cal/OSHA safety
standards for elevated cleaning.
Question 8: What should a custodian do if a chemical spill occurs on their skin? A.
Ignore it if minor B. Immediately flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention if
needed C. Apply another chemical to neutralize D. Wipe with a dry cloth
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Immediately flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical
attention if needed Rationale: Rapid flushing removes the contaminant, minimizing injury
as required by emergency response protocols in custodial training.
Question 9: In California, what is a key requirement for recycling programs in
custodial operations? A. Ignore recyclables to save time B. Separate paper, plastics, and
cans according to local ordinances C. Burn waste on-site D. Mix all trash together
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Separate paper, plastics, and cans according to local
ordinances Rationale: Compliance with California's recycling laws promotes
environmental sustainability and avoids fines for improper waste management.
Question 10: What type of gloves should be worn when handling acidic cleaners? A.
Cotton gloves B. Nitrile or chemical-resistant gloves C. Latex gloves only D. No gloves
needed
,CORRECT ANSWER: B. Nitrile or chemical-resistant gloves Rationale: Nitrile provides
superior resistance to many chemicals, protecting skin as per PPE guidelines in Cal/OSHA
standards.
Question 11: Why is it important to empty trash receptacles daily? A. To allow odors to
build for testing B. To prevent overflow, odors, and pest attraction C. Only if they are full D.
To save on liner costs
CORRECT ANSWER: B. To prevent overflow, odors, and pest attraction Rationale:
Daily emptying maintains hygiene and prevents health hazards in California facilities.
Question 12: What is the proper way to store cleaning equipment after use? A. Leave
wet mops in buckets B. Clean, rinse, and hang mops to dry in a well-ventilated area C. Store
in sealed plastic bags D. Pile in a corner
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Clean, rinse, and hang mops to dry in a well-ventilated area
Rationale: Proper drying prevents mold and bacterial growth, ensuring equipment
longevity and safety.
Question 13: Which method is best for cleaning glass windows without streaks? A. Use
paper towels and circular motions B. Apply cleaner and squeegee vertically then
horizontally C. Spray heavily and let air dry D. Use abrasive pads
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Apply cleaner and squeegee vertically then horizontally
Rationale: Squeegeeing in straight lines removes solution efficiently without leaving
residue for a streak-free finish.
Question 14: What does the term "green cleaning" refer to in custodial contexts? A.
Using only green-colored products B. Environmentally friendly products and methods that
reduce toxicity C. Cleaning only green spaces D. Rapid cleaning techniques
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Environmentally friendly products and methods that reduce
toxicity Rationale: Green cleaning aligns with California's sustainability initiatives to
minimize environmental impact.
Question 15: How should a custodian respond to a slippery floor warning sign? A.
Remove the sign immediately B. Place the sign, clean the area, and leave until dry C. Ignore
and continue mopping D. Cover with carpet
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Place the sign, clean the area, and leave until dry Rationale:
Warning signs prevent slips and falls, a major concern addressed in Cal/OSHA workplace
safety rules.
Question 16: What is the correct order for cleaning a restroom? A. Floor first, then
fixtures B. Top to bottom: mirrors, sinks, toilets, floors last C. Random order D. Bottom to top
, CORRECT ANSWER: B. Top to bottom: mirrors, sinks, toilets, floors last Rationale:
Cleaning from top to bottom prevents re-contaminating cleaned surfaces with debris from
higher areas.
Question 17: Which vacuum feature is essential for HEPA filtration in allergen-
sensitive areas? A. Blower function B. High-efficiency particulate air filter C. Cordless
design D. Wet pickup capability
CORRECT ANSWER: B. High-efficiency particulate air filter Rationale: HEPA filters trap
fine particles, improving indoor air quality per California health standards.
Question 18: What is prohibited when using floor buffers? A. Wearing non-slip shoes B.
Operating without proper training or guards C. Using on dry floors D. Emptying the solution
tank regularly
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Operating without proper training or guards Rationale:
Training and safety guards prevent injuries from moving parts under Cal/OSHA equipment
standards.
Question 19: Why use color-coded cloths in cleaning? A. For aesthetic appeal B. To
prevent cross-contamination between areas C. To match room decor D. To identify
ownership
CORRECT ANSWER: B. To prevent cross-contamination between areas Rationale:
Color-coding (e.g., red for restrooms) ensures hygiene by designating specific uses.
Question 20: In California, what must be included in a custodian's incident report for
injuries? A. Only the time of day B. Date, time, description, witnesses, and actions taken C.
Personal opinions on fault D. Unrelated facility details
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Date, time, description, witnesses, and actions taken
Rationale: Accurate reporting supports workers' compensation claims and safety
improvements per state regulations.
Question 21: What is the best way to dispose of used razor blades found in trash? A.
Throw in regular trash B. Place in a puncture-proof sharps container C. Recycle with plastics
D. Flush down toilet
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Place in a puncture-proof sharps container Rationale: Proper
sharps disposal prevents needlestick injuries as mandated by bloodborne pathogen
standards.
Question 22: Which cleaner is appropriate for stainless steel surfaces? A. Abrasive
scouring powder B. Mild detergent or stainless steel-specific cleaner C. Bleach solution D.
Vinegar undiluted
