Engineering Controls

Engineering controls are used to remove a chemical hazard, or to place a barrier between the worker and the chemical hazard. Well-designed engineering controls can be highly effective in protecting workers. The initial cost of engineering controls can be high, but over the longer term, operating costs are frequently lower, and in some instances can provide a cost savings in other areas of the process. Engineering controls reduce or eliminate exposure to chemical or physical hazards through one of the following methods:

• Segregation of people from hazards
• Enclosure of hazards
• Ventilation of the workplace and the source of contaminants
• Repair or replacement of faulty equipment or machinery

To learn more about Shipyard Chemical Hazards visit our Shipyard Chemical Hazards & Toxic Substances Online Training web page.