The Hierarchy of Control Strategies
Traditionally, a prioritized "Hierarchy of Controls" (HOC) has been used to implement feasible and effective exposure controls to protect workers.
We encourage the use of the HOC as described within the ANSI/ASSP Z10, Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems, to control hazards. The six strategies are discussed below.
- Elimination: Completely eliminate the hazard so it cannot cause an accident. This is the most effective prevention strategy, and should be implemented when possible.
- Substitution: Replace materials, equipment, etc., with something that reduces the hazard to acceptable limits.
- Engineering controls: Design the environment, materials, tools, equipment and machines so that they do not present hazards.
- Warnings: Place OSHA signs (Danger, warning, caution, or safety instruction), audible alarms (klaxon, whistles, buzzers), or tactile warnings (vibration or fans) that alert employees about the presence of hazards.
- Work Practice Controls: Develop mandatory procedures and rules that reduce the possibility of exposure to hazards.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): PPE helps to prevent contract with hazards and is used in conjunction with other controls.
The use of these controls should reduce exposure to the point where the risk to hearing is eliminated or at least more manageable. Warnings, Work Practice Controls, and PPE are less reliable because they only work when employees comply with the procedures and practices.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
3-2. Which two hierarchy of control strategies are considered most effective?
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