Elimination means completely removing the hazard or risk of exposure to the hazard. This is the ideal control solution. Substitution means replacing the hazard with a non-hazardous alternative. If a hazard cannot be eliminated or substituted the next preferred measure is to use an engineering control. This example shows the use of the engineering control of vacuum extraction of smoke and fumes used in combination with the safe working procedure of keeping the extractor duct close to the work and within the capture area of the vacuum air flow.
Administrative controls mean introducing work practices which reduce risk.
This limits the exposure of the employee to the hazard. Personal Protective Equipment. Personal protective equipment includes hard hats, safety glasses and hearing protection. This control measure should only be used where other measures are not practicable. When PPE is utilised as a control there should be a action plan developed as part of management's control of workplace hazards to work towards the 'top' of the hierarchy of controls to gradually eliminate or minimise workplace hazards and therefore meet the employers duty of care.