Hierarchy of Controls

Definition

The hierarchy of controls is a systematic approach used to minimize or eliminate exposure to hazards in the workplace. It ranks control methods from most effective to least effective, emphasizing the importance of removing hazards entirely before relying on personal protective equipment or administrative controls. This framework helps organizations prioritize safety measures to protect workers' health and well-being.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The hierarchy of controls is often illustrated as a pyramid, with elimination at the top, followed by substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE at the base.
2. Elimination involves completely removing the hazard from the workplace, which is the most effective way to ensure worker safety.
3. Substitution replaces a hazardous material or process with a safer alternative to reduce risk.
4. Engineering controls involve designing workspaces or equipment in a way that minimizes exposure to hazards without relying on worker behavior.
5. Administrative controls are policies and practices that can be implemented to alter how work is performed to limit exposure to hazards.

Review Questions

• How does the hierarchy of controls guide organizations in prioritizing safety measures?
  • The hierarchy of controls provides a structured framework for organizations to prioritize safety measures based on effectiveness. By ranking control strategies from most effective (elimination) to least effective (PPE), it encourages businesses to focus on removing hazards before resorting to less reliable methods. This approach not only promotes a safer work environment but also fosters a culture of proactive risk management.
• Compare and contrast engineering controls and administrative controls within the hierarchy of controls.
  • Engineering controls involve implementing physical changes to the workplace or equipment that directly reduce exposure to hazards, such as installing machine guards or improving ventilation systems. In contrast, administrative controls focus on changing work processes or policies to mitigate risks, such as scheduling work shifts to minimize exposure time or providing safety training. While both are essential for maintaining workplace safety, engineering controls tend to be more effective since they directly address the hazard rather than relying on behavior change.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of personal protective equipment (PPE) within the context of the hierarchy of controls and its role in occupational health and safety.
  • While PPE serves as a critical line of defense in protecting workers from hazards, it is positioned at the bottom of the hierarchy of controls due to its reliance on individual compliance and correct usage. PPE does not eliminate hazards; instead, it serves as a barrier against them. Therefore, in evaluating occupational health and safety strategies, it is crucial to understand that while PPE is necessary, it should not be the primary method for controlling risks. Effective health and safety programs must prioritize higher-level controls like elimination and engineering before implementing PPE.

Related terms

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gear designed to protect workers from specific hazards, such as helmets, gloves, and masks.

Administrative Controls: Procedures and policies implemented to reduce exposure to hazards, such as training and work schedules.

Engineering Controls: Physical modifications to the workplace or equipment that reduce or eliminate hazards, such as ventilation systems and machine guards.