Controlling hazards

and Risk
All workplace hazards (chemical,
physical, etc.) can be controlled by a
variety of methods. The goal of
controlling hazards is to prevent
workers from being exposed to
occupational hazards.
The most effective method of controlling hazards
is to control at the source by eliminating the
hazard or by substituting a hazardous agent or
work process with a less dangerous one.
• Elimination
• Substitution
How can you identify health and safety problems? Here
are some of the ways you can identify health and safety
problems:

 Observe your workplace;

 Investigate complaints from workers;
 Examine accident and near-miss records;
 Examine sickness figures;
 Use simple surveys to ask your co-workers about
their health and safety concerns;
 Use checklists to help you inspect your workplace;
 Learn the results of inspections that are done by
the employer, the union, or anyone else;
 Read reports or other information about your
workplace.
Methods of Control Elimination of a specific hazard or
hazardous work process, or preventing it from entering
the workplace, is the most effective method of control.

What is meant by elimination? Elimination is the process of

removing the hazard from the workplace. It is the most effective way
to control a risk because the hazard is no longer present. It is the
preferred way to control a hazard and should be used whenever
possible.
What is substitution? Substitution occurs when a new
chemical or substance is used instead of another chemical.
It is sometimes grouped with elimination because, in
effect, you are removing the first substance or hazard from
the workplace. The goal, obviously, is to choose a new
chemical that is less hazardous than the original.
Substitution occurs when a new chemical or
substance is used instead of another chemical. It is
sometimes grouped with elimination because, in
effect, you are removing the first substance or
hazard from the workplace. The goal, obviously, is
to choose a new chemical that is less hazardous
than the original.