NICET - Highway Construction Inspection Practice Exam

What is a hub commonly used for in construction?

1. To indicate the desired elevation for a project

2. To measure horizontal distances

3. To establish temporary boundaries

4. To mark the location of underground utilities

The correct answer is: To indicate the desired elevation for a project

A hub is a crucial tool in construction that serves primarily to indicate the desired elevation for a project. This is particularly important during the grading and foundation phases of construction, as accurate elevation levels are essential to ensure proper drainage, structural integrity, and adherence to design specifications. By placing a hub at a designated elevation, construction teams can easily reference it to check other points on the site, maintaining uniformity and accuracy throughout the project. While the other choices may involve activities commonly performed on construction sites, they do not accurately describe the specific function that a hub serves. For example, measuring horizontal distances and establishing temporary boundaries typically involve surveying instruments and markers rather than hubs. Similarly, while marking the location of underground utilities is a critical aspect of planning and executing construction, it is usually accomplished with different types of markers or utility flags, rather than hubs dedicated to elevation. Therefore, the usage of a hub is specifically tied to elevation referencing, making it an indispensable tool in the construction process.