The Hierarchy of Control in NEBOSH

What’s In This Guide

1. The five levels of the Hierarchy of Control 

2. How elimination and substitution reduce hazards 

3. The role of engineering and administrative controls 

4. When Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) should be used 

5. Practical examples of workplace control measures

To create a safe working environment, the hierarchy of control plays a crucial role in health and safety management. NEBOSH uses the hierarchy of control as a structured method for selecting control measures, starting with elimination and moving down through substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls and PPE.

By applying controls in a clear order of priority, organisations can address risks more systematically and reduce employees’ exposure to potential harm. This approach also supports safer decision-making by encouraging employers to consider the most effective controls before relying on measures that depend heavily on individual behaviour.

What is Hierarchy of Control in NEBOSH?

The hierarchy of control is a fundamental concept in occupational health and safety that focuses on eliminating or minimising workplace hazards. It provides a systematic framework that guides organisations in selecting the most effective control measures to ensure a safe and healthy work environment. NEBOSH incorporates the hierarchy of control into its health and safety learning materials as a systematic method for selecting appropriate control measures.

The primary objective of the hierarchy of control is to prevent incidents, injuries, and illnesses by addressing hazards at their source. It emphasises the importance of taking proactive measures to eliminate hazards rather than relying solely on personal protective equipment (PPE) or reactive solutions. By following this approach, organisations can create a safer workplace and promote a culture of prevention.

The Levels in Hierarchy of Control

The hierarchy of control consists of five levels, each representing a different approach to risk control. These levels are presented in descending order of effectiveness, with the most effective measures at the top.

1) Elimination

At the top level is the elimination control, which involves completely removing the hazard from the workplace. Elimination is generally the most effective control because it removes the hazard itself. Elimination can be achieved through various means, such as.

1) Redesigning processes by modifying workflows or procedures to eliminate the need for hazardous tasks or materials. For example, replacing the manual lifting process with a mechanised system.

2) Employing safer equipment or machinery and replacing outdated or malfunctioning equipment with newer models that incorporate advanced safety features.

3) Identifying alternative methods or technologies so that the need for carrying out the hazardous task is eliminated. For instance, Redesigning a process so workers no longer need to enter the hazardous area.

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2) Substitution

If elimination is not feasible, substitution is the next level in the hierarchy of control in NEBOSH. Substitution involves replacing hazardous substances, equipment, or processes with less hazardous alternatives, and this level minimises the risk by introducing safer elements into the workplace. Some examples of substitution include:

1) Using non-toxic or less toxic substances by replacing harmful chemicals with safer alternatives that serve the same purpose.

2) Substituting hazardous materials with less dangerous alternatives. For instance, using non-toxic cleaning agents instead of chemical-based cleaners.

3) Adopting alternative processes and implementing methods that reduce exposure to hazards. For instance, using mechanical methods instead of manual cutting or grinding.

Trainer’s Insight: A strong risk assessment should explain why a particular control was selected, not just what the control is. This shows that factors such as effectiveness, practicality, maintenance needs, and residual risk have been considered.

3) Engineering Controls

The third level in the hierarchy of control in NEBOSH is engineering controls, which focuses on isolating workers from hazards through engineering solutions. This level emphasises the physical modification of the workplace or processes to minimise exposure to risks. Engineering controls include:

1) Installing physical barriers like guards or barriers to separate workers from machinery or hazardous areas.

2) Improving airflow and ventilation to reduce exposure to airborne contaminants.

3) Introducing automated machinery or robotics to replace hazardous manual tasks.

Implementing engineering controls requires carefully assessing the workplace and the hazards involved. Engineering controls reduce risk by isolating people from hazards or controlling exposure through physical or technical measures. Although they do not remove the hazard itself, they can provide reliable protection when properly designed, maintained and used. Employers should consult engineers and safety professionals to identify appropriate engineering control measures.

4) Administration

Administrative controls are used when higher-level controls do not fully eliminate or adequately control the risk, often alongside engineering measures. This level involves changing work practices, procedures, or policies to reduce the risk. Administrative controls focus on modifying human behaviour and work conditions. Examples of administrative controls include:

1) Providing comprehensive training to employees on hazard awareness, safe work practices, and emergency procedures.

2) Rotating employees through different tasks or providing regular breaks to minimise exposure to hazards.

3) Limiting access to hazardous areas or establishing designated safety zones.

Engineering and administrative controls can be used together to reduce exposure and support safer working practices. Administrative controls require effective communication, clear policies, and robust training programs. Employers should ensure that employees receive appropriate training and supervision to adhere to the established procedures.

5) Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is the last line of defence in the hierarchy of control. It includes equipment such as helmets, gloves, goggles, masks, and safety shoes. While PPE should normally be used after higher-level controls have been considered and where residual risk remains, or as supplementary protection where appropriate. Employers must:

1) Conduct assessments to determine the specific PPE required for each task and hazard.

2) Provide appropriate training on PPE use, maintenance, and limitations.

3) Regularly inspect and replace worn-out or damaged PPE.

4) Ensure workers are instructed, trained and supervised in the correct selection, use, storage and maintenance of PPE.

5) PPE should not be relied on as the sole control where more effective measures are reasonably practicable. It may remain necessary as supplementary protection where residual risk cannot be eliminated.

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