Which option represents an engineering control to reduce exposure?

Which option represents an engineering control to reduce exposure?

• A. Shielding workers from noise with barriers
• B. Administrative changes to work schedules
• C. Using PPE like gloves
• D. Substituting a hazardous chemical with a safer alternative

Answer: (A)

Engineering controls reduce exposure by changing the environment or process so the hazard reaches the worker to a lower level. Shielding workers from noise with barriers is a clear engineering control because the barrier physically alters the sound pathway, lowering the noise that reaches ears without depending on the worker’s actions. It acts on the source/pathway of the exposure, rather than relying on behavior or protective gear. Administrative changes to work schedules cut exposure time but don’t change the actual level of hazard in the environment. Using PPE like gloves provides protection at the point of contact but doesn’t reduce the hazard itself in the workspace. Substituting a hazardous chemical with a safer alternative addresses the hazard more directly, but that is considered elimination/substitution rather than an engineering control.

Engineering controls reduce exposure by changing the environment or process so the hazard reaches the worker to a lower level. Shielding workers from noise with barriers is a clear engineering control because the barrier physically alters the sound pathway, lowering the noise that reaches ears without depending on the worker’s actions. It acts on the source/pathway of the exposure, rather than relying on behavior or protective gear.

Administrative changes to work schedules cut exposure time but don’t change the actual level of hazard in the environment. Using PPE like gloves provides protection at the point of contact but doesn’t reduce the hazard itself in the workspace. Substituting a hazardous chemical with a safer alternative addresses the hazard more directly, but that is considered elimination/substitution rather than an engineering control.