OSHA #511 Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry course

Which level in the Hierarchy of Controls is considered the last line of defense?

1. Administrative controls

2. Engineering controls

3. Personal protective equipment (PPE)

4. Elimination of hazards

The correct answer is: Personal protective equipment (PPE)

The last line of defense within the Hierarchy of Controls is personal protective equipment (PPE). This classification reflects its role in safety management, as PPE is utilized when all other control measures have been exhausted or are not feasible to implement. The hierarchy emphasizes a systematic approach to hazard control, prioritizing the most effective measures first. Elimination of hazards and engineering controls are considered more effective strategies as they aim to eliminate the risk or isolate the worker from the hazard. Administrative controls also help in modifying work practices and procedures to mitigate risks. In essence, PPE is employed to protect workers when hazards cannot be removed or appropriately controlled. While it plays a crucial support role in ensuring safety, reliance solely on PPE can lead to inadequate protection if not complemented by more robust hazard control measures. Thus, it is rightly identified as the last line of defense in maintaining occupational health and safety.