The Hierarchy of Control (HOC) Strategies
Applying the HOC to Fall Hazards
Fall hazards provide a good example of how the Hierarchy of Controls can be applied when developing corrective actions. Higher-priority controls eliminate exposure to the fall hazard or provide physical protection, while lower-priority controls depend more heavily on workers recognizing hazards and following established requirements.
- Elimination: Recommend eliminating exposure by performing the work at ground level or changing the location, process, or procedure so workers do not approach a fall hazard.
- Passive Fall Protection: Recommend guardrails, floor-opening covers, or similar barriers that protect workers without requiring them to wear or connect fall-protection equipment. Safety net systems may also provide protection if a fall occurs.
- Active Fall Protection: Recommend systems that require workers to properly wear and use fall-protection equipment.
- Travel restraint system: Prevents workers from reaching a location where a fall can occur.
- Personal fall arrest system: Stops a worker after a fall begins and limits the distance and forces involved.
The controls below do not physically eliminate or isolate the fall hazard and depend more heavily on workers recognizing hazards and following established requirements.
- Warnings: Recommend warning lines, signs, or other methods that alert workers about fall hazards.
- Administrative Controls: Recommend procedures, training, designated work areas, access restrictions, and other administrative methods that direct how employees work around fall hazards.
Remember: The first priority is to eliminate exposure to the fall hazard when feasible. If the work can be safely performed at ground level, exposure to the fall hazard is eliminated.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
7-4. Which control prevents a worker from reaching a location where a fall can occur?
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