An effective measure to control, based on the provided reference, is elimination and substitution.
Understanding Elimination and Substitution
These measures represent the top tier of the hierarchy of controls, aiming to fundamentally remove or replace hazards in a process.
Elimination
- Definition: Completely removing the hazard from the workplace.
- Example: If a manufacturing process requires the use of a toxic solvent, eliminating the process step that requires the solvent would be elimination.
- Practical Insight: Elimination is the most effective control because it removes the risk entirely.
Substitution
- Definition: Replacing a hazardous substance or process with a less hazardous one.
- Example: Replacing a solvent-based paint with a water-based paint.
- Practical Insight: Substitution reduces the risk, even if it doesn't eliminate it completely.
Implementation Considerations
While elimination and substitution are the most effective, implementing them can present challenges.
- New Processes: Easiest to implement during the design phase of a new process.
- Existing Processes: Can be more difficult and potentially expensive to implement in existing processes due to:
- The need for new equipment.
- The need for different materials.
Hierarchy of Controls
Elimination and substitution are at the top of the hierarchy of controls. Other control methods, like engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE), are less effective because they do not eliminate the hazard itself. These other controls rely on worker behavior or equipment to mitigate risk.
Summary
In conclusion, elimination and substitution are considered the most effective measures to control hazards. While easiest to implement in new processes, they can be more challenging and costly for existing ones.
