Elimination & Substitution

Controlling exposure to hazards is the fundamental method of protecting workers. A hierarchy of controls should be used when determining how to feasibly and effectively control hazards. They are as follows: elimination and substitution, engineering controls, work practice (or administrative) controls, and PPE.

Elimination and substitution are the most effective ways to reduce chemical hazards, but they tend to be the most difficult to implement. If a project is still at the design or development stage, elimination of chemical hazards should be a priority. An example of eliminating a chemical hazard is to automate the process, thereby removing the worker from contact with the chemical substance. An example of substitution is to use a less toxic chemical. For an existing process, major changes in equipment and procedures may be required to eliminate or substitute for a hazard.

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