What is the hierarchy of controls in safety management?

The hierarchy of controls is fundamentally a structured framework used in safety management to prioritize the methods of mitigating hazards effectively. The primary goal is to eliminate or reduce risks to the lowest level possible. The most effective approach is the elimination of the hazard entirely, which is the most preferred method. If elimination isn't feasible, substitution with a safer alternative is the next best option.

After substitution, engineering controls that isolate people from the hazards are employed. If these controls are not sufficient, administrative controls, which involve changing the way people work, are implemented to reduce exposure to hazards. Lastly, when all other methods have been addressed, personal protective equipment (PPE) is used as a last line of defense.

This systematic approach ensures that safety measures are taken in the most effective order, minimizing the risk of injuries or accidents in the workplace. Thus, the correct choice encapsulates the essence of this prioritization, highlighting the comprehensive strategy employed in safety management.