What are the 5 hierarchies of control with examples in Nebosh?

The 5 Hierarchies of Control in NEBOSH

The hierarchy of controls is a system for prioritizing hazard management strategies. It was developed by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and is used by NEBOSH (the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health) as a framework for assessing and controlling workplace hazards.

The hierarchy of controls consists of five levels, each of which is designed to be more effective than the level below it. The five levels are:

1. Elimination

Elimination is the most effective way to control a hazard. It involves removing the hazard from the workplace entirely. For example, if a machine is causing a noise hazard, the machine could be eliminated by replacing it with a quieter model.

2. Substitution

Substitution involves replacing a hazardous substance or process with a less hazardous one. For example, if a chemical is causing a skin irritation hazard, it could be substituted with a less irritating chemical.

3. Engineering controls

Engineering controls involve modifying the workplace to reduce the risk of exposure to a hazard. Examples of engineering controls include:

• Isolation: Enclosing the hazard in a physical barrier, such as a machine guard or fume hood.
• Ventilation: Removing or diluting airborne contaminants through the use of fans or exhaust systems.
• Noise reduction: Using soundproofing materials or barriers to reduce noise levels.

4. Administrative controls

Administrative controls involve changing the way work is performed to reduce the risk of exposure to a hazard. Examples of administrative controls include:

• Job rotation: Rotating workers between different jobs to reduce their exposure to a particular hazard.
• Training: Providing workers with training on how to work safely with hazardous substances or equipment.
• Safe work procedures: Establishing written procedures for performing hazardous tasks in a safe manner.

5. Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is the least effective way to control a hazard. PPE is worn by workers to protect them from exposure to hazards, but it does not eliminate the hazard itself. Examples of PPE include:

• Respirators: Used to protect workers from inhaling airborne contaminants.
• Gloves: Used to protect workers from skin contact with hazardous substances.
• Safety glasses: Used to protect workers from eye injuries.

The goal of the hierarchy of controls is to eliminate hazards from the workplace whenever possible. However, when elimination is not possible, the next best option is to substitute the hazard with a less hazardous one. If substitution is not possible, engineering controls should be implemented to reduce the risk of exposure to the hazard. If engineering controls are not possible, administrative controls should be implemented to change the way work is performed to reduce the risk of exposure to the hazard. Finally, if all other options have been exhausted, personal protective equipment should be used as a last resort to protect workers from exposure to the hazard.