How To Handle Hazards

Hazard Elimination

Hazard elimination is the process of removing the hazards completely from the workplaces. The hazards are not present anymore. That’s why hazard elimination is the most effective method in controlling hazards. Whenever possible use this method to protect from hazards.

Hazard Reduction

Hazard reduction is the effort to reduce or lessen hazard level from the workplaces to an acceptable level. In this case hazards are still present. It is generally chosen whenever hazard elimination is not feasible.

Hazard reduction can be implemented during the design phase and in some cases as a result of evaluation on the existing equipment, jobs, tasks or activities. 

Engineering Control

Engineering controls include isolation, ventilation, containment and process control. Engineering control deals with the design of workplaces and their related processes.

Isolation of the hazards may come in the form of machine guard, welding curtains and hot surface insulation. Exhaust fans that remove hazardous vapors is an example of hazard control by Engineering. 

Administrative control

Administrative controls are selected when elimination and substitution are not feasible, and engineering controls could not provide adequate control of hazards. Typical examples of administrative controls are provisions of operation procedures, safety signs and training, scheduling working hours to limit exposure to the hazard, implementing job rotation, work permits and alarms.

Personal Protective Equipment: Personal protective equipment shall be used at all times, in the event that one of the other systems fails. Always remember that our PPE is our last line of defense.