Which control category focuses on changing work policies or procedures to reduce exposure?

Which control category focuses on changing work policies or procedures to reduce exposure?

• A. Administrative controls
• B. PPE
• C. Substitution
• D. Engineering controls

Answer: (A)

This question tests understanding of control measures that change how work is done to reduce exposure. Administrative controls focus on changing policies, procedures, training, scheduling, and work practices to lower risk. For example, implementing safe work procedures, conducting safety training, rotating workers to limit repetitive exposure, and adjusting shift lengths all aim to reduce how long or how intensely workers are exposed by altering the way tasks are performed. PPE provides a personal barrier but doesn’t change the task or environment. Substitution means replacing a hazardous material or process with a safer one. Engineering controls physically modify the workplace or equipment to remove or reduce the hazard, such as ventilation or machine guards. Administrative controls are used to reduce exposure by changing behavior and procedures, often used in combination with other controls.

This question tests understanding of control measures that change how work is done to reduce exposure. Administrative controls focus on changing policies, procedures, training, scheduling, and work practices to lower risk. For example, implementing safe work procedures, conducting safety training, rotating workers to limit repetitive exposure, and adjusting shift lengths all aim to reduce how long or how intensely workers are exposed by altering the way tasks are performed.

PPE provides a personal barrier but doesn’t change the task or environment. Substitution means replacing a hazardous material or process with a safer one. Engineering controls physically modify the workplace or equipment to remove or reduce the hazard, such as ventilation or machine guards. Administrative controls are used to reduce exposure by changing behavior and procedures, often used in combination with other controls.