When considering how to reduce the risk, there's a certain order you should follow. This is called the hierarchy of controls. It's important to follow the hierarchy, as shown below, rather than start with the easiest control measures. While the controls are listed in order of effectiveness, all four types of controls should be considered. They often work best in combination.
Elimination or substitution
- Eliminating the hazard completely is always the first choice. Substitution involves replacing the material or process with a less hazardous one.
Engineering controls
- If you can't eliminate the hazards or substitute safer alternatives, engineering controls are the next best options. These involve using work equipment or other means to prevent workers from being exposed to a hazard.
Administrative controls
- Administrative controls involve identifying and implementing safe work procedures so your workers can perform their job duties safely. The findings of your risk assessment will form the basis of these safe work procedures.
Personal protective equipment and clothing
- Using personal protective equipment is another important control to protect workers. For example, while working with toxic chemicals may be necessary in certain workplaces such as laboratories, the use of PPE such as protective eyewear and gloves will help to reduce the exposure risk.