Heirarchy of Controls

The following is six types of controls that are compatible with ANSI/AIHA Z10-2005. These so called "actions" rely on the performance of personnel. This list I have compiled is inspired from many different resources, but prevalently on the Accident Prevention Manual For Business and Industry: Engineering & Technology (13th Edition).

1. Eliminate/Reduce risks in the design & redesign prcocesses:

• For example, eliminate or reduce hazards such as noise, chemical, fall/trip, confined spaces, and ergonomic hazards.

2. Reduce risks by substituting less hazardous methods or materials:

• Substituting does not necessarily guarantee a lower risk.
• This process needs to be researched.
• Any decisions should be backed up by data, benefits, past & current research, as well as weighing the downfalls of substituting a "less hazardous" method or material.

3. Incorporate safety devices:

• This can also be referred to as engineering controls.
• Engineering controls can be used to keep an individual or employee from being able to access the hazard.
• Can take the human factor out of the equation.
• For example a dead-man's switch on a pushmower is a form of a safety device. The lawnmower will not run unless the handle bar is held down.

4. Provide warning systems:

• The effectiveness of signs, warning labels, instructions rely on the reactions of people, training, and the quality of maintenance.
• Examples of warning systems are: alarm systems, signs, smoke detectors, chemical detection systems, and backup alarms.

5. Administrative controls applied:

• Methods chosen to meet the needs of a particular criteria.
• Some administrative controls are: personnel selection, behavior modification, inspections, maintenance, work scheduling, job rotation, scheduled rest periods, investigations, supervision, change of management, and work methods and procedures.
• "Achieving a superior level of effectiveness in all of these administrative methods is difficult, and not often attained" (Acc. Prev. Man. listed above, page 16).

6. Provide adequate PPE (personal protective equipment):

• Identifying the type of safety equipment needed and its exact selection relies on personnel actions as well as the supervisor's.
• Examples of PPE are: face shields, gloves, hearing protection, safety glasses, respirators, welding screens, and safety shoes.
• This is the least effective control of this list because it relies alot on the proper use and enforcement by personnel.
• If possible keep reliance on PPE as low as possible, with practicality in consideration.