Which of the following correctly lists an Elimination and a Substitution level example in the Hierarchy of Controls?

Which of the following correctly lists an Elimination and a Substitution level example in the Hierarchy of Controls?

• A. Elimination: Remove hazard; Substitution: Replace with less hazardous option
• B. Elimination: Remove hazard; PPE: Safety goggles
• C. Substitution: Replace with less hazardous option; Administrative controls: Safe work procedures
• D. PPE: Safety goggles; Engineering controls: Local exhaust ventilation

Answer: (A)

The main concept is the Hierarchy of Controls, focusing on the top levels that reduce hazards at the source: elimination and substitution. Elimination means removing the hazard entirely from the workplace, while substitution means replacing the hazard with a less hazardous option. The statement pairing elimination with removing the hazard and substitution with replacing it with a less hazardous option correctly reflects these two levels of control. This shows prioritizing source reduction before relying on protective gear or procedures. For example, removing a hazardous chemical from a process eliminates exposure, and substituting it with a safer chemical reduces risk without removing the process itself. The other options mix in PPE, administrative controls, or engineering controls, which are not the elimination and substitution levels.

The main concept is the Hierarchy of Controls, focusing on the top levels that reduce hazards at the source: elimination and substitution. Elimination means removing the hazard entirely from the workplace, while substitution means replacing the hazard with a less hazardous option. The statement pairing elimination with removing the hazard and substitution with replacing it with a less hazardous option correctly reflects these two levels of control. This shows prioritizing source reduction before relying on protective gear or procedures. For example, removing a hazardous chemical from a process eliminates exposure, and substituting it with a safer chemical reduces risk without removing the process itself. The other options mix in PPE, administrative controls, or engineering controls, which are not the elimination and substitution levels.