CHST EXAM PROFESSOR · FREE SAMPLE
The hierarchy of controls
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What it is
Choose controls that address the source of a hazard before relying on individual behavior. Think of it as a design decision: how much can the work itself protect the worker?
Why it matters for the exam
The blueprint asks you to apply the hierarchy to prevent or correct hazards. In a scenario, identify what each option actually changes.
How it works in practice
Imagine a noisy fabrication task. Removing the task eliminates that exposure; choosing a quieter process substitutes it; enclosing the source is an engineering measure. Scheduling exposure is administrative. Hearing protection is PPE. Feasibility and other applicable requirements still matter.
What to remember
Elimination → substitution → engineering → administrative → PPE. Layer controls where needed; a lower-level control does not remove the need to evaluate higher-level options.
Apply the idea
Using a hypothetical task or an authorized desk review, identify one hazard, classify the current control, and propose an option higher in the hierarchy. Record what would need verification before anyone changes the work.
Work through the reasoning
Work through the exposure mechanism before classifying the control. Elimination removes the hazardous activity or source from the task; substitution replaces it with a safer alternative. Engineering changes the source or path physically. Administrative measures organize how people work, and PPE protects the wearer within its limitations. A strong plan may combine layers, but each layer needs verification.
A second worked example
A fictional component can be fabricated at ground level instead of requiring repeated work at height. That may eliminate the height exposure for this step while introducing lifting and handling questions elsewhere. Compare the complete process, not only the attractive part of the change.
A common mistake
Calling training an engineering control confuses information with a physical change. Declaring substitution automatically safe ignores new hazards.
Guided learning only—not an inspection, audit, certification, or compliance determination. Use fictional material or authorized, redacted documents. Stay in safe, authorized areas and do not interfere with operations. Verify findings against current regulations, jurisdictional requirements, manufacturer instructions, and company procedures with the appropriate competent or qualified person.
NIOSH · Hierarchy of Controls ↗Independent study material. Verify current applicable requirements. RiSC is not affiliated with or endorsed by BCSP.
See the principle in action.
Domain refresher · Choose a control that changes the exposure. Original RiSC visual lesson, 48 seconds, captions and no audio.
Describe the harmful event
Name the source, the person exposed, and how contact or exposure could occur. Start with the work, not the equipment label.
Read the complete video transcript
- Describe the harmful event. Name the source, the person exposed, and how contact or exposure could occur. Start with the work, not the equipment label.
- Work from the source outward. Consider elimination and substitution, then engineering measures, work arrangements, and PPE. Evaluate new risks introduced by an alternative.
- Make the control specific. In a fictional delivery task, separation and coordinated access address vehicle–pedestrian contact. A reminder alone leaves the interaction in place.
- Verify the result. Ask who will confirm the control is suitable and effective. Follow current requirements, manufacturer instructions, and the responsible person’s authorization.