What is the hierarchy of controls in OHS?

The hierarchy of controls is a systematic approach used in Occupational Health and Safety to effectively minimize or eliminate workplace hazards. This framework is essential for ensuring a safe working environment and prioritizes controls based on their effectiveness in reducing risk. It typically involves a series of steps, starting from the most effective measures—such as elimination of the hazard—down to the least effective, like personal protective equipment.

By focusing on mitigating risks at the source, the hierarchy of controls emphasizes the significance of implementing engineering controls or administrative changes before resorting to personal protective equipment. This approach ensures that hazards are addressed in a structured manner, promoting a culture of safety and compliance within the workplace. Thus, recognizing it as a method for minimizing or eliminating hazards is fundamental to OHS practices, making the correct answer focused on the essential role of this hierarchy in safeguarding health and safety in occupational settings.