29/08/2025
The Hierarchy of Controls: Making Risk Reduction Practical
Introduction
Reducing risk in the workplace isn’t guesswork—it’s a structured process. The Hierarchy of Controls provides a step-by-step framework for eliminating or minimizing hazards effectively. This article breaks down the hierarchy into actionable strategies that you can apply across industries.
What is the Hierarchy of Controls?
It’s a five-level system used to control exposure to occupational hazards. Ordered from most effective to least effective, the hierarchy guides safety professionals in applying the best possible measures:
Elimination
Substitution
Engineering Controls
Administrative Controls
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Detailed Breakdown
1. Elimination
Remove the hazard completely from the workplace.
Example: Automating a manual process to avoid repetitive strain injuries.
Most effective but often the most difficult to implement.
2. Substitution
Replace the hazard with something safer.
Example: Using water-based instead of solvent-based chemicals.
Ensure the substitute doesn’t introduce new risks.
3. Engineering Controls
Isolate people from the hazard.
Example: Installing guardrails, machine guards, or local exhaust ventilation.
Effective and doesn’t rely on worker behavior.
4. Administrative Controls
Change the way people work.
Example: Job rotation to limit exposure, training, and safety signage.
Relies on compliance and monitoring.
5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Provide workers with equipment to protect against hazards.
Example: Helmets, gloves, respirators, boots, and goggles.
Least effective and used when other methods aren’t sufficient.
When to Use the Hierarchy
During Job Safety Analysis (JSA)
When introducing new processes or machinery
Post-incident reviews
As part of HIRA or control strategy planning
Why This Framework Works
Structured Decision-Making: Encourages prioritization of solutions.
Compliance-Driven: Aligns with ISO 45001, ADOSH-SF V4.0, and international best practices.
Sustainable Safety: Reduces long-term reliance on human behavior and PPE.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Jumping straight to PPE without exploring higher-level controls
Not reviewing controls after changes in equipment or workflow
Relying on outdated or ineffective engineering solutions
Conclusion
The Hierarchy of Controls turns abstract safety goals into practical, layered protection strategies. It’s a roadmap to safer workplaces when applied consistently and creatively.
Call to Action
Do you want to strengthen your risk control strategies? EIHS provides expert-led workshops and assessments that help you apply the hierarchy of controls effectively in your operations.
👉 Call us at +971 24421011 or by email at info@eihs.ae 👉 Explore our training programs at https://www.eihs.ae/ 👉 Follow us for weekly HSE insights and updates
Emirates Institute for Health & Safety, Suite 1208, Bin Aweidha Building, Khalifa Street, Abu Dhabi, UAE https://maps.app.goo.gl/9qnYdkUPvJjGL75A8
Join us next week as we delve into:
Incident Reporting: Turning Accidents into Actionable Insights
