The Hierarchy of Control: A Fundamental Approach to Workplace Safety

In the realm of workplace safety, the "hierarchy of control" is a universally recognised framework that helps organisations manage health and safety risks. This approach is crucial in minimising workplace hazards and ensuring a safe environment for all workers. According to the Safe Work Australia Code of Practice and the Model Code of Practice, the hierarchy of control consists of five levels, each representing a different method for controlling hazards, from the most effective to the least effective.

Understanding the Hierarchy of Control

The hierarchy of control is presented as a step-by-step process that organizations can use to systematically eliminate or reduce risks to health and safety. The hierarchy is ordered by effectiveness, starting with the most effective method:

1. Elimination

   Elimination is the most effective control measure and involves removing the hazard entirely from the workplace. When a hazard is eliminated, there is no longer a risk of harm associated with it. For example, replacing a noisy piece of machinery with a quieter one or removing hazardous chemicals from the workplace are forms of elimination. The Model Code of Practice: How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks emphasizes that elimination should always be the first consideration when addressing hazards (Safe Work Australia, 2019).

   
   

2. Substitution

   When elimination is not possible, substitution is the next best option. This control involves replacing the hazardous material or process with a less hazardous one. For instance, substituting a toxic solvent with a less toxic one can significantly reduce the risk of harm. Substitution, while effective, requires careful consideration to ensure that the new material or process does not introduce new risks (Safe Work Australia, 2019).

   
   

3. Engineering Controls

   Engineering controls aim to isolate people from the hazard. This involves redesigning equipment, work processes, or environments to reduce exposure to hazards. Examples include installing barriers, ventilation systems, or noise enclosures. Engineering controls are generally more reliable than administrative controls and personal protective equipment (PPE) because they are built into the design of the workplace (Safe Work Australia, 2019).

   
   

4. Administrative Controls

   If engineering controls are not practicable, administrative controls can be implemented to reduce or eliminate exposure to hazards. These controls involve changes in work procedures, such as implementing safe work practices, training, supervision, and rotating employees to minimise exposure duration. While administrative controls are necessary, they are less effective than elimination, substitution, or engineering controls because they rely on human behaviour and adherence to procedures (Safe Work Australia, 2019).

   
   

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

   PPE is considered the last line of defense in the hierarchy of control. It involves the use of personal protective equipment such as gloves, masks, helmets, and safety glasses to protect workers from hazards. Although PPE is essential, it is the least effective form of control because it does not eliminate the hazard and relies on proper usage and maintenance by workers (Safe Work Australia, 2019).

Applying the Hierarchy of Control in the Workplace

Applying the hierarchy of control effectively requires a thorough understanding of the hazards present in the workplace and a commitment to prioritising higher-level controls. Employers should always aim to implement the most effective control measures first. For example, in an industrial setting where hazardous chemicals are used, the first step should be to eliminate the use of such chemicals where possible. If elimination is not feasible, substituting the chemical with a safer alternative or implementing engineering controls such as ventilation systems should be considered next.

Moreover, regular reviews and updates to risk assessments and control measures are essential to ensure ongoing safety. As new technologies and processes emerge, opportunities to apply higher-level controls may become available, further reducing the risk of harm.

Conclusion

The hierarchy of control is a vital framework in managing workplace health and safety risks. By following this structured approach, organisations can create a safer environment for their workers and reduce the likelihood of injuries and illnesses. According to the Safe Work Australia Code of Practice and the Model Code of Practice, prioritising higher-level controls such as elimination, substitution, and engineering controls can provide significant safety benefits. Lower-level controls, such as administrative controls and PPE, should only be used when higher-level controls are not feasible or in conjunction with them to ensure comprehensive risk management (Safe Work Australia, 2019).

References:

Safe Work Australia. (2019). Model Code of Practice: How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks. Safe Work Australia. Available at: Safe Work Australia Website.