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What Is the Hierarchy of Control?
The hierarchy of control is a structured approach to workplace safety that organizes protective measures into five distinct categories, ranked from the most effective to the least effective. This framework helps companies identify and implement strategies to mitigate or eliminate hazards effectively.
Each category in the hierarchy represents a different method for managing risks. The order of effectiveness is as follows:
1. **Elimination** – Physically removing a hazard.
2. **Substitution** – Replacing a hazardous material or process with a safer alternative.
3. **Engineering Controls** – Separating workers from the hazard through physical barriers or modifications.
4. **Administrative Controls** – Changing work practices, policies, or procedures to reduce exposure.
5. **Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)** – Providing gear such as helmets, gloves, and goggles to protect workers.
This hierarchy is often visualized as an inverted triangle, with elimination at the top and PPE at the bottom. It's a fundamental concept in workplace safety, widely adopted by organizations across various industries.
Government agencies like OSHA and the CDC recognize the hierarchy of control as one of the most effective methods for ensuring worker safety. By proactively addressing hazards, the ultimate goal is to prevent work-related injuries, illnesses, and accidents.
Here is a menu for this guide:
- What Is the Hierarchy of Control?
- Hierarchy of Control: The Five Types of Hazard Control
- How to Implement the Hierarchy of Control
- Examples of the Hierarchy of Control
- Hazard Controls for Indoor Inspections
- How Drones Fit into the Hierarchy of Control
### What Is the Hierarchy of Control?
The National Safety Council (NSC) first introduced the concept of the hierarchy of controls in the 1950s. They emphasized that eliminating hazards was more effective than relying on personal protective equipment or training. Since then, global safety organizations have embraced and expanded upon this framework.
OSHA and NIOSH now consider the hierarchy of control a best practice for minimizing occupational hazards. The NSC continues to promote it, offering resources and articles on its importance.
### Hierarchy of Control: The Five Types of Hazard Control
Each level of the hierarchy acts as a "line of defense" against workplace accidents. While the top levels are more effective, all should be implemented to ensure comprehensive safety.
#### 1. Elimination
Eliminating a hazard entirely is the most effective strategy. For example, moving machinery to a separate room or using drones for inspections can remove the need for workers to be exposed to risks.
However, complete elimination isn't always feasible. It's best implemented during the design phase, where prevention through design can maximize safety without significant costs.
#### 2. Substitution
Replacing a hazardous material or process with a less risky alternative is the second most effective method. For instance, switching to eco-friendly pesticides or safer paints can reduce risks.
But businesses must be cautious to avoid unintended consequences, known as regrettable substitutions.
#### 3. Engineering Controls
When elimination or substitution isn't possible, engineering controls isolate workers from hazards. Examples include installing guardrails, improving ventilation, or using ergonomic tools.
These controls physically alter the environment, reducing risk without relying on worker behavior.
#### 4. Administrative Controls
Administrative controls change how people work through policies, training, and signage. Limiting working hours or requiring handwashing are examples.
While helpful, these controls depend on human behavior, which can be inconsistent.
#### 5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
PPE, such as masks, gloves, and helmets, is the least effective method. It doesn’t eliminate hazards but protects workers when they are exposed. However, it can be uncomfortable and may not provide full protection if the equipment fails.
### Prevention Through Design
Prevention through design is a broader safety concept that integrates the hierarchy of control into project planning. By identifying and eliminating dangers early, it reduces the likelihood of accidents.
NIOSH considers this approach the most effective way to prevent occupational harm.
### How to Implement the Hierarchy of Control
OSHA provides a six-step process for implementing the hierarchy of control:
1. Identify hazards
2. Select hazards to control
3. Make a hazard control plan
4. Establish emergency controls
5. Implement hazard controls
6. Confirm that controls are effective
By following these steps, businesses can systematically address risks and improve workplace safety.
### Examples of the Hierarchy of Control
#### Falls
For fall prevention, elimination could involve removing scaffolding or lowering equipment. Substitution might replace ladders with elevators. Engineering controls include guardrails, while administrative controls enforce safety protocols. PPE like harnesses is the least effective option.
#### Toxic Materials
Eliminating dangerous chemicals or substituting them with safer alternatives is ideal. Engineering controls like ventilation systems help isolate workers. Administrative controls limit exposure, and PPE like respirators is used when necessary.
#### Pandemics
During the pandemic, elimination involved vaccines, substitution meant remote work, engineering controls included social distancing markers, administrative controls enforced hygiene practices, and PPE like masks became essential.
### Hazard Controls for Indoor Inspections
Traditional indoor inspections often rely on PPE and administrative controls because higher-level controls like elimination or substitution aren’t feasible. However, drones can eliminate the need for inspectors to enter confined spaces, significantly improving safety.
### How Drones Fit into the Hierarchy of Control
Drones, like the Elios 2, can completely eliminate the need for inspectors to enter hazardous environments. This reduces the risk of injury and allows for safer, more efficient inspections.
In industries like oil and gas, drones have been used to inspect pressure vessels, chimneys, and FCC units, replacing manual entry and enhancing safety.
By integrating drones into the hierarchy of control, companies can move up the ladder of safety, making their workplaces safer and more efficient.