OSHA's Hierarchy of Controls for Employees Training Course

In every workplace, hazards exist. Some are obvious, like moving equipment or elevated work areas, while others are less visible—such as noise, chemical exposure, or repetitive motion that builds up over time. Workplace safety isn’t just about reacting to hazards; it’s about reducing risk before someone gets hurt. This is where the Hierarchy of Controls becomes an essential decision-making tool. By understanding this framework, workers and employers can look at any hazard and determine the most effective way to control it, moving beyond simple reliance on personal protective equipment toward stronger, more reliable solutions.

This course breaks down the five-level pyramid of safety, starting from the most effective methods at the top to the last line of defense at the bottom. We begin with Elimination and Substitution—the gold standard of safety—which focus on removing the hazard entirely or replacing dangerous materials with safer alternatives. We then explore Engineering Controls, which involve designing safety directly into the environment to isolate workers from hazards. Following this, we examine Administrative Controls, which utilize training, procedures, and scheduling to limit exposure. Finally, we discuss Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). While PPE is vital, it is considered the least effective control because it protects the individual without removing the hazard itself.

By the end of this training, you will understand that the Hierarchy of Controls isn't about choosing just one solution. It’s about building a multi-layered defense. You will learn how these levels work together to create a comprehensive safety strategy, allowing your organization to make informed decisions that strengthen safety programs and reduce risk across a wide range of tasks and environments. When hazards are addressed thoughtfully and systematically, safety becomes a natural part of everyday operations rather than an afterthought.

This program is available with Spanish and French closed captions.