What does the hierarchy of control measures prioritize?

The hierarchy of control measures prioritizes ways to eliminate or reduce risks, arranged from the most effective to the least effective strategies. This system is fundamental in health and safety management, as it provides a structured approach to risk assessment and risk minimization.

At the top of this hierarchy is elimination, which involves removing the hazard entirely. If that is not feasible, the next steps would include substitution (replacing the hazard with something less dangerous), engineering controls (modifying equipment or processes to reduce exposure), administrative controls (changing how people work), and finally, personal protective equipment (PPE), which is considered the last line of defense.

By prioritizing control measures in this way, organizations can implement the most effective solutions to protect employees and minimize risks in the workplace. This systematic approach helps ensure that health and safety practices are both logical and effective, ultimately leading to a safer work environment.