Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

What is the proper sequence for hazard control steps?

1. Educate personnel, guard the hazard, engineer hazard out

2. Guard the hazard, engineer hazard out, educate personnel

3. Engineer hazard out, guard the hazard, educate personnel

4. Educate personnel, engineer hazard out, guard the hazard

The correct answer is: Engineer hazard out, guard the hazard, educate personnel

The correct sequence for hazard control steps emphasizes the importance of prioritizing safety interventions based on their effectiveness. Beginning with engineering the hazard out is a fundamental step in risk management, as it focuses on designing out risks through modifications to the workplace or processes. This might include redesigning equipment, substituting materials, or implementing safer technologies. By addressing the root cause of the hazard, this step provides the highest level of protection. Next, guarding the hazard involves putting physical barriers in place to protect individuals from exposure. This could include machine guards, handrails, or other safety devices that help to prevent accidents. Guarding is an important secondary layer of protection, especially when engineering controls are not feasible or may not completely eliminate the hazard. Finally, educating personnel is vital for ensuring that workers understand the hazards they may encounter and the safety measures in place. Training workers on proper safety practices, the use of personal protective equipment, and situational awareness creates a knowledgeable workforce that can respond appropriately to hazards. By following this sequence—engineering out the hazard first, then guarding the hazard, and lastly educating personnel—organizations can create a comprehensive safety framework that prioritizes effective risk reduction and employee safety.