Hierarchy of Hazard Controls
Elimination
Eliminating the hazard, while most effective, also be the most difficult to implement in an existing process that requires major changes in equipment to eliminate a hazard. For example, replacing a material handling process by installing an automated robotic system can be very expensive.
Substitution
A strategy that replaces a greater workplace hazard with a less dangerous alternative can be very effective, especially when combined with other safety measures. For example, in a manufacturing plant, replacing a solvent-based paint (which contains harmful chemicals) with a water-based paint can improve safety and make work processes less complex.
Engineering Controls
Engineering controls design changes in equipment to remove hazards at the source before it contacts the worker. They will typically be designed to make the hazards independent of worker interactions. For instance, interlocked barrier guards on industrial machines, such as hydraulic presses or conveyor belts, physically prevent workers from coming into contact with dangerous moving parts.
Warnings
Safety warnings (such as labels and signs) are used in the workplace to alert employees to potential hazards and provide important safety instructions. Since warnings do not eliminate hazards, but only inform workers about them, they are considered a lower-level controls in the HOC. Warnings are only as effective as long a employees are aware of them and comply with the instructions. For example, a confined space entrance with a posted "Do Not Enter" warning cannot prevent employees from entering the space.
Work Practice Controls
Work practice controls, also called "administrative" controls, focus on strategies designed to protect employees from exposure to hazards. These strategies include training programs, workplace policies, standard procedures, and safety rules. When necessary, work practice controls are combined with higher-level strategies to help reduce risks and create a workplace where employees can perform their tasks with greater safety and confidence.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Many types of PPE are used when higher-level controls do not adequately protect employees. Using PPE protects employees by creating a barrier between a hazard and the employee that prevents hazardous exposure. For instance, a safety helmet can protect employees from falling objects.
Warnings, work practice, and PPE strategies may not always be as effective as expected. Their success depends on strong leadership, effective management, careful supervision, and full employee compliance, among many other factors. However, maintaining control over all these variables can be difficult, especially in an ever-changing workplace. Unexpected situations, new employees, or changes in procedures can make it challenging to ensure that everyone follows safety requirements consistently.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-10. Which exposure control strategy attempts to protect employees with safe procedures and rules?
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