Hierarchy of Control

What Is Hierarchy of Control ?

Many employers start from the bottom of the list when considering options.

Some think that it is cheaper and/or simpler to change worker behavior or give them some protection against the hazard that to fix the cause of the problem

In the long run this approach costs more in time and money and is less effective.

Elimination Options which get rid of the hazard

altogether. The best way to eliminate the risk is to completely remove the hazard.

For example :i. repair damaged equipment promptlyii. move a noisy machine from a quiet

area.iii. ensure new equipment meets the

ergonomic needs of users

Substitution Replacing a hazardous substance or work

practice with a less hazardous one For example :i. a telephone hand set can be replaced with a

head set where there is constant use of the telephone

ii. substituting a smaller package or container to reduce the risk of manual handling injuries such as back strain

iii. substituting a hazardous chemical with a less dangerous one

Isolation Isolate the hazard by controlling or

guarding it. place hazardous electrical plant in

enclosures with restricted access place out-of-service tags on plant.

Engineering Controls The provision of mechanical aids, barriers,

machine guarding, ventilation or insulation to isolate a hazard from employees.

For example;i. electrical cut out switchesii. isolating copying equipment in soundproof

and ventilated roomsiii. using trolleys or mechanical lifting aidsiv. changing bench heights to reduce bending

Administrative Controls Establishing policies, procedures and work practices designed to reduce a worker’s exposure to a risk. It can also include the provision of specific training and supervision.

For example:i. increasing job variety and introducing job

rotation.ii. redesigning jobsiii. training and education to learn how to be

professional workers

Personal Protective Equipment

(PPE) Covering and protecting a worker’s body from

hazards. It can be used as a short-term control measure until a higher order” control has been provided, or to supplement it. The employer would also have to provide training for workers required to use it, and the employee would have a responsibility to use it properly.

Some examples of PPE are:i. Use ear plugs in noisy areasii. Use eye protection when working with chemicalsiii. Use gloves to protect against infection

Demonstrate the proper and save methods in deploying portable fire

extinguisher