Here's an explanation of the hierarchy of risk control with scenarios:
1. Eliminating the hazard:
Eliminate the hazard altogether, removing the risk.
Scenario: A construction site has a hazardous chemical stored on site. To eliminate the hazard, the site
manager decides to remove the chemical from the site and find a safer alternative.
2. Reducing the hazard:
Reduce the risk by minimizing the hazard's impact.
Scenario: A factory has a loud machine that's causing hearing damage. To reduce the hazard, the factory
installs soundproofing materials around the machine to minimize the noise level.
3. Preventing people coming into contact with the hazard:
Prevent people from coming into contact with the hazard in the first place.
Scenario: A laboratory has a hazardous substance stored in a cabinet. To prevent people from coming
into contact with the hazard, the laboratory locks the cabinet and only allows authorized personnel to
access it.
4. Safe systems of work:
Implement safe procedures and training to minimize risk.
Scenario: A warehouse has a forklift operating in a busy area. To implement safe systems of work, the
warehouse develops a traffic management plan, trains staff on safe forklift operation, and designates
pedestrian-only areas.
5. Personal protective equipment (PPE):
Use PPE as a last resort to protect individuals from the hazard.
Scenario: A painter is working with toxic chemicals and needs to wear personal protective equipment
(PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses, and a mask to protect themselves from the hazard.
Remember, the hierarchy of risk control is in order of most effective to least effective, so it's best to
start with eliminating the hazard and work your way down the list!
