What is the hierarchy of controls in safety management?

The hierarchy of controls is a systematic approach designed to minimize or eliminate occupational hazards effectively. It emphasizes prioritizing strategies that remove hazards at their source before relying on personal protective equipment (PPE). This hierarchy typically spans five levels: elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative actions, and PPE.

Choosing B accurately captures the essence of this framework, which is foundational to occupational safety and health practices. By focusing on engineering controls, administrative actions, and PPE, the hierarchy of controls guides employers and safety professionals to implement measures that manage risks in a structured way. For instance, eliminating the hazard entirely is the most effective approach, followed by substituting it with something less dangerous. If these aren’t viable options, engineering controls, which modify the environment or equipment, are next in line. Administrative actions involve changing workplace policies or procedures to enhance safety, while PPE acts as the last line of defense, providing personal protection when hazards cannot be effectively controlled through other means.

This understanding is critical for anyone involved in workplace safety management, ensuring they are equipped with the right strategies to protect workers and reduce risks effectively.