1.6 Recognize and Control Workplace Hazards

Once hazards are identified and assessed, control measures must be implemented to eliminate or reduce risks. The hierarchy of controls provides a structured framework for selecting the most effective measures.

1.6.1 — The Five Levels of Control

Controls are ranked in order of effectiveness — from most to least. Always apply the highest-level control that is reasonably practicable. In many situations, multiple levels are combined to create layered protection.

1 Elimination Most Effective

2 Substitution

3 Engineering Controls

4 Administrative Controls

5 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Least Effective

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Level 1 — Elimination

Most Effective

Elimination means removing the hazard entirely from the workplace. This is the most effective control because no hazard means no risk — but it is not always feasible once a process or system is already in place.

Designing systems to eliminate the need for working at heights
Choosing non-hazardous materials instead of hazardous ones
Removing unnecessary equipment or processes

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Level 2 — Substitution

Substitution means replacing a hazardous material or process with a less hazardous one. The hazard still exists, but its risk is significantly reduced.

Using low-GWP refrigerants instead of high-GWP refrigerants
Replacing solvent-based cleaners with water-based cleaners
Using battery-powered tools instead of pneumatic tools to reduce noise

⚙️

Level 3 — Engineering Controls

Engineering controls isolate people from hazards through physical or mechanical means. They work independently of worker behaviour, making them more reliable than administrative measures.

💨 Ventilation systems to remove hazardous vapors

🛡️ Guarding on rotating equipment

🔒 Lockout/tagout systems for energy isolation

⚓ Fall protection anchor points

🚨 Refrigerant detection and alarm systems

🚧 Barriers and guardrails

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Level 4 — Administrative Controls

Administrative controls change the way people work to reduce exposure to hazards. They depend on consistent human behaviour and are therefore less reliable than engineering controls.

Safe work procedures and permits
Training programs
Job rotation to reduce repetitive strain
Scheduled maintenance to prevent equipment failure
Signage and warnings
Limiting access to hazardous areas

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Level 5 — Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

PPE provides a physical barrier between the worker and the hazard. It is the least effective control because it does not eliminate the hazard — it only reduces the consequence of exposure.

⚠️ Does not eliminate the hazard

⚠️ Can fail or be used improperly

⚠️ Relies entirely on worker compliance

Despite its limitations, PPE is often necessary as a final layer of protection and is frequently used alongside higher-level controls.

Safety glasses and face shields
Gloves (chemical, thermal, electrical)
Hearing protection
Respirators
Fall arrest harnesses
Hard hats and safety footwear

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Key Principle — Layered Protection

Always apply the highest-level control available. In practice, multiple controls are often combined — for example, engineering controls paired with administrative procedures and PPE — to provide comprehensive, layered hazard protection.