The hierarchy of controls can be used to consider the changes that can be made in response to a hazard. The risk that has been identified should be considered, then, depending on the risk, start at the top of the hierarchy, or as close to the top as is reasonable, by considering realistic changes that would eliminate the risk. If a change cannot be implemented at this level, move on to the next.

• Eliminate: what would happen if this process or hazard was removed? Would that be possible?
• Substitute: are there any alternatives that could be put in place? Would they be feasible?
• Engineering: are there any physical barriers that can be put in place to remove this risk?
• Administrative controls: does the standard operating procedure (SOP) need to be reviewed? Could a change to the SOP help to avoid this risk?
• PPE: if the risk cannot be removed, how can staff and patients be protected? Would PPE be effective?

Once you've completed this module, move onto:
Part eight: The second victim phenomenon
But be sure to click next to complete this module first.