- Making Safety Simpler
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Engineering Controls
If elimination or substitution isn't possible, engineering controls is the best approach. These are physical alterations to the work environment or equipment that reduce risk.
Common Engineering Controls:
Guardrails and Barriers
Installing guardrails, barriers, or safety nets to prevent falls from elevated platforms, walkways, and staircases. Also, shoring cages and systems to guard from entrapment in excavations.
Ventilation Systems
Implementing local exhaust ventilation (LEV) to capture and remove airborne contaminants at the source and using general ventilation systems to dilute and remove hazardous substances from the air.
Wetting Systems
Spraying water or other liquids onto materials or into the air to suppress dust and prevent it from becoming airborne.
Machine Guards
Installing physical guards on machinery to prevent contact with moving parts.
Isolation and Enclosures
Enclosing hazardous processes or equipment to prevent exposure to workers and using isolation techniques to separate workers from dangerous areas or materials.
Ergonomic Design
Modifying workstations, tools, and equipment to reduce strain and prevent musculoskeletal disorders by implementing adjustable workstations, ergonomic chairs, and anti-fatigue mats.
Sound Dampening and Noise Control
Installing soundproofing materials and barriers to reduce noise levels in the workplace and using vibration isolation mounts and damping materials to minimize noise from machinery.
Lighting Improvements
Enhancing workplace lighting to improve visibility and reduce the risk of accidents, using task lighting to focus on specific work areas and reduce eye strain.
Slip, Trip, and Fall Prevention
Applying non-slip coatings to floors and steps and installing handrails, stair nosings, and warning signs to prevent slips, trips, and falls.
Emergency Shutoff Systems
Implementing emergency stop buttons and pull cords on machinery and equipment, and installing automated shutdown systems for hazardous processes in case of emergency.
Dust and Fume Control
Installing dust collection systems to capture and remove particulate matter from the air, and using fume hoods and extractors to remove harmful fumes and gases at the source.
Temperature Control
Implementing climate control systems such as fans and air movers to maintain safe and comfortable working temperatures, and using insulation and shielding to protect workers from extreme temperatures.