Engineering controls

Definition

Engineering controls refer to methods implemented in the workplace to eliminate or reduce exposure to hazards through the design of equipment, processes, and the work environment. These controls are essential in creating a safer workplace by physically removing or minimizing hazards, thus protecting workers from potential health risks associated with their jobs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Engineering controls can include ventilation systems, machine guards, sound enclosures, and safety interlocks that physically change the way a task is performed.
2. These controls are often prioritized over administrative controls and PPE because they can provide a more permanent solution to hazard reduction.
3. Implementing engineering controls can lead to significant reductions in worker injury rates and long-term health issues related to occupational exposure.
4. Effective engineering controls should be regularly evaluated and maintained to ensure their ongoing effectiveness in reducing hazards.
5. In some cases, engineering controls may require initial investment costs but can lead to savings over time due to decreased workers' compensation claims and increased productivity.

Review Questions

• How do engineering controls differ from administrative controls in workplace safety?
  • Engineering controls focus on physically changing the work environment or equipment to eliminate hazards, such as installing ventilation systems or safety guards. In contrast, administrative controls involve implementing policies and procedures that dictate how work is done without altering the physical setup. By prioritizing engineering controls, organizations aim for a more effective and lasting solution to minimize risks.
• What are some examples of engineering controls that can be used in industries with hazardous exposure, and how do they contribute to worker safety?
  • Examples of engineering controls include local exhaust ventilation systems that capture harmful fumes at their source, machine guards that prevent access to moving parts, and soundproof enclosures that reduce noise exposure. These measures directly address potential hazards by either eliminating them or significantly reducing workers' exposure. This proactive approach not only enhances safety but also promotes a healthier work environment.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of implementing engineering controls in a manufacturing setting on employee health outcomes and organizational efficiency.
  • Implementing engineering controls in a manufacturing setting can lead to significant long-term benefits for employee health outcomes by reducing injury rates and chronic conditions associated with hazardous exposures. Over time, healthier employees result in lower healthcare costs and reduced absenteeism. Additionally, organizations often experience increased efficiency due to fewer disruptions caused by accidents or health-related issues, ultimately enhancing productivity and profitability while fostering a safer workplace culture.

Related terms

Administrative Controls: Policies and procedures put in place to manage how work is performed and to minimize exposure to hazards without altering the physical environment.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Clothing and equipment designed to protect workers from specific hazards, such as gloves, helmets, goggles, and respiratory protection.

Hazard Assessment: The process of identifying potential hazards in the workplace and evaluating the risks associated with them to determine appropriate control measures.