Risk Assessments #3: How Do I Control Risk?

‘Life is inherently risky’– Denis Waitley

Risks are in everything we do. In part three of our Risk Assessment Series we look at risk management techniques, using a tool known as the hierarchy of hazard control.

This hierarchy system is used to select the appropriate response to hazards and most commonly is visually represented in order of decreasing effectiveness.

The hierarchy of control is an essential tool for assessing the suitability of both new and existing controls.

Elimination

This involves physically removing the hazard—this is considered the most effective for protecting workers, where achievable this should be the utilised method of control.

Elimination is most effective when built into the initial design process of a task or area. When introduced for existing processes this can create more difficulties and can be costly to carry out.

Examples of risk elimination would be removing/substituting the use of dangerous chemicals, or if employees work high above the ground, moving the piece they are working on to ground level to eliminate the need to work at heights can eliminate the hazard.

Substitution

When complete elimination is not possible, substitution is the next preferable option - replacing something that produces a hazard with a less hazardous process or substance for example replacing lead-based paint with titanium white.  Care must be taken to ensure the substitution process does not cause addition hazards.

Changing the method of working may be an effective act of substitution. For example, using handled water hose brushes to clean windows instead of ladders. for example, replacing lead-based paint with titanium white.

Engineering Controls

The third most effective way of controlling hazards - engineering controls. These act to isolate people from hazards, rather than removing them.

They focus on controlling the risk by designing systems and processes where interaction with the risk is avoided rather than relying on employees to take their own preventative action. In general, these controls tend to be the more costly to implement but often reduce future costs.

An example of such controls could involve a crew building a work platform rather than purchasing, replacing or maintaining fall arrest equipment.

Administrative Controls

Administrative controls place their attention on changing the way people work. These acts do not remove hazards, but limits exposure to them with a conscious effort from employees. This control can be achieved through employee training, procedural adaptations or simple installation of signs and warning labels.

Examples of such measures involve completing road construction at night when fewer people are driving. Other examples include Safe Systems of Work, Permits to Work, Warning devices, reduced time exposure, training, information provision, monitoring and supervision.

PPE

PPE, or personal protective equipment, includes gloves, nomex/uniform, respirators, hard-hats, high vis clothing and safety glasses/footwear. Due to the high potential for damage, PPE is considered the least effective method of control.

PPE is only an effective control measure if it is well looked after and used in the manner intended as damage can render the PPE ineffective. Alongside this, some PPE such as respirators (due to increased physiological effort to complete certain tasks) may need medical examinations to assess whether further risk to health is likely.

Knowledge, understanding and application of the hierarchy of hazard control results in a safer workplace and helps protect you, your business and your people. If you’re looking for further information about how to conduct risk assessments, CT Health & Safety can help you. To find out more, contact: 07956 074798 or clive@cthealthandsafety.com.

*https://www.nesglobal.net/nioshs-hierarchy-of-controls/ (Image)