Kevin Ian Schmidt

Managing hazardous substances in the workplace requires a systematic approach to ensure the safety and health of all employees. With the right control strategies in place, it is possible to prevent harmful chemical exposures and create a safer work environment. One of the most effective frameworks for managing such risks is the “Hierarchy of Controls” (HOC), a method strongly recommended by the ANSI/ASSP Z10-2012 standard on Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems.

The HOC is designed to help organizations eliminate or significantly reduce exposure to hazardous chemicals by prioritizing control measures based on their effectiveness. This structured approach guides safety professionals in selecting the most appropriate interventions to mitigate risks associated with hazardous substances. When a workplace assessment identifies exposure to dangerous levels of chemicals, it is crucial to apply the following HOC strategies, in order of their effectiveness:

Primary Strategies: Addressing the Hazard Itself

1. Elimination: The most effective solution is to completely eliminate hazardous substances from the workplace. This method ensures that the risk is entirely removed, making the work environment significantly safer. For instance, if a particular solvent poses health risks, replacing it with a non-hazardous alternative eliminates the risk altogether.
2. Substitution: If elimination is not feasible, the next-best solution is substitution. This involves replacing a toxic substance with a less-toxic alternative. For example, using a less harmful cleaning agent instead of a highly toxic one can significantly reduce health risks. The key is to choose substitutes that maintain the same functional properties without the associated dangers.
3. Engineering Controls: When elimination or substitution isn’t possible, engineering controls are the next line of defense. This involves redesigning or modifying processes to eliminate or reduce exposure to the chemical hazard. Examples include installing proper ventilation systems to remove harmful fumes or enclosing processes to prevent the escape of dangerous substances. These controls tackle the hazard at its source and are highly effective in creating a safer workplace.

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Secondary Strategies: Modifying Behaviors to Reduce Exposure

4. Warnings: Once the hazard itself has been addressed, the focus shifts to reducing exposure through behavioral strategies. Using container labels and signs is a crucial step. These warnings inform employees about the dangers associated with the chemicals they are handling, ensuring that they are aware of the risks and can take necessary precautions. Clear, visible warnings are essential for maintaining safety awareness among workers.
5. Administrative Controls: Developing and incorporating safer behaviors and work practices is another vital strategy. This involves creating written safety policies and rules, providing supervision, and conducting regular training sessions. Administrative controls aim to instill a culture of safety within the workplace. However, their effectiveness depends on consistent monitoring and enforcement by supervisors. Regular safety drills and updates to safety protocols are examples of how administrative controls can be implemented effectively.
6. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): The use of PPE is a common and mandatory strategy when working with hazardous chemicals. PPE includes items such as gloves, goggles, and respirators, which form a barrier between workers and hazards. While PPE is essential, it should be considered a last resort, as it relies heavily on correct and consistent usage by employees. Ensuring that workers are properly trained in using PPE and regularly inspecting the equipment for wear and tear are crucial for this strategy to be effective.

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By following the Hierarchy of Controls in this order, organizations can systematically address the risks associated with hazardous substances, ensuring that the most effective measures are implemented first. This proactive approach not only enhances workplace safety but also aligns with best practices for occupational health and safety management as outlined by ANSI/ASSP Z10-2012.

Key Considerations with the Hierarchy of Control

When implementing these strategies, always start by asking, “How can I eliminate, reduce, or engineer out the hazard?” This approach ensures that the most effective measures are taken first. The goal is to eliminate or reduce the hazard to the point where reliance on behavioral controls and PPE is minimized. By prioritizing elimination, substitution, and engineering controls, workplaces can achieve a higher level of safety, making behavioral strategies and PPE supplementary rather than primary measures.

In summary, the safe use of hazardous substances in the workplace hinges on a systematic approach that prioritizes the elimination and reduction of risks through a well-structured hierarchy of controls. By following these guidelines, employers can create a safer work environment, protect their employees’ health, and comply with occupational safety standards.