This episode of the IHSA Safety Podcast discusses the hierarchy of controls as a fundamental tool in workplace health and safety and features Scott Laing.

Scott explains that the hierarchy of controls is a framework that helps to reduce or eliminate hazards, starting with the most effective methods such as elimination and substitution and moving down to less effective measures such as personal protective equipment (PPE).

The hierarchy of controls helps manage workplace risks effectively, particularly on construction sites. Because construction sites are dynamic with conditions changing frequently, it’s always critical to identify hazards before they lead to incidents. Scott emphasizes that workers' involvement in hazard identification and safety discussions is necessary, as they can best identify risks that may not be obvious to supervisors or health and safety committee members.

Scott discusses the ways technology is improving the ability to recognize and control hazards in construction, such as the use of drones for site inspections and the Building Information Modeling (BIM) equipment, which visualizes a project before the construction begins. Scott also shares additional safety tips for workers and safety professionals when using the hierarchy of controls.

Free resources

Hierarchy of Controls to Ensure Workers’ Safety

Basics of Supervising Training

Training Requirements Chart

Safety Talks

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