750 Introduction to Industrial Hygiene

Recognizing and Controlling Hazards

Warnings

Greater awareness is gained by using signs, alarms, signals, labels, placards, cones, and other methods. For example, a warning sign might be used to keep workers from entering a confined space. Although ANSI categorizes warnings as a separate control strategy and gives it higher priority than administrative controls, we believe warnings should be thought of as an administrative control because they do not prevent exposure to a hazard.

Work Practice Controls

Work practice controls eliminate or reduce exposure to hazards by developing and implementing effective procedures and work practices. Examples include scheduling production and worker tasks in ways that minimize exposure levels. The employer might schedule operations with the highest exposure potential during periods when the fewest employees are present. Developing and using Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs) is another way to reduce exposure through safe work practices. Following safe procedures while operating production and control equipment, good housekeeping, and safe practices are all good examples of work practice controls.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) eliminates/reduces exposure through personal barriers. This strategy is generally used in conjunction with the other strategies to reduce exposure. When effective elimination, substitution and engineering controls are not feasible appropriate PPE such as gloves, safety goggles, helmets, safety shoes, and protective clothing may be required. To be effective, PPE must be individually selected, properly fitted and periodically refitted; conscientiously and properly worn; regularly maintained; and replaced as necessary.

It's important to note that administrative/work practices controls and personal protective equipment are the primary control strategies used by IHs to control exposure to health hazards in the workplace.

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