JHA Controls

In a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA), controls are measures implemented to eliminate or reduce the risks associated with identified hazards. The universally accepted framework for determining the most effective controls is the Hierarchy of Controls, which prioritizes actions from most effective to least effective:

1. Elimination: This is the most effective control and involves physically removing the hazard from the workplace.

Examples: Discontinuing the use of a hazardous chemical, performing work at ground level instead of at heights, stopping a noisy process.

2. Substitution: This involves replacing a hazardous material or process with a less hazardous one.

Examples: Using a less toxic cleaning agent, replacing lead-based paint with a water-based alternative, using a safer tool.

3. Engineering Controls: These are physical changes to the workplace, equipment, or process that reduce or prevent exposure to the hazard. They are designed to isolate people from the hazard.

Examples: Installing machine guards, implementing ventilation systems (e.g., local exhaust ventilation), enclosing noisy equipment, adding safety interlocks, installing guardrails, using secondary containment for chemicals, improving lighting.

4. Administrative Controls: These are changes in work procedures, practices, or policies that reduce the duration, frequency, or intensity of exposure to the hazard.

Examples: Developing written safe operating procedures (SOPs), implementing work permits (e.g., lockout/tagout, confined space entry), job rotation to limit exposure time, scheduling work to minimize exposure, providing comprehensive training, alarms, signs, and warnings.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): This is the least effective control measure and should only be used when other controls are not feasible or do not fully eliminate the hazard. PPE acts as a barrier between the worker and the hazard.

Examples: Safety glasses, gloves, hard hats, respirators, hearing protection, fall protection harnesses, protective clothing, steel-toed boots.

Key considerations for using controls in a JHA:

• Hierarchy Application: Always start at the top of the hierarchy (elimination) and work your way down. The goal is to eliminate the hazard entirely. If not possible, move to substitution, then engineering controls, and so on. PPE should be the last resort.

• Combination of Controls: Often, a single control method is not enough. A combination of different controls from the hierarchy may be necessary to provide adequate protection. For example, a local exhaust system (engineering control) might require specific training and maintenance procedures (administrative controls) in addition to workers wearing respirators (PPE) during certain tasks.

• Feasibility: Controls must be feasible to implement, considering factors like effectiveness, reliability, cost, and consistency with regulations.

• Worker Involvement: It is crucial to involve workers who perform the job in identifying hazards and determining appropriate controls. Their input is invaluable.
• Review and Update: Controls should be periodically reviewed and updated, especially when there are changes in processes, equipment, or if new hazards are identified.

 

Weekly Safety Challenge:

Describe a time when you realized a safety control wasn’t as effective as it should be. What did you do about it?