What is considered the most effective method in the "hierarchy of controls" for safety?

The most effective method in the "hierarchy of controls" for safety is elimination. This approach involves completely removing the hazard from the workplace, which completely negates the risk of exposure to that hazard. By eradicating the source of danger, the likelihood of accidents or injuries occurring is minimized and often eliminated entirely, creating a safer environment for all employees.

In the hierarchy of controls, elimination is prioritized because it addresses the root cause of the hazard rather than merely reducing or minimizing exposure. This gives it a distinct advantage over other methods, such as engineering controls, substitution, or personal protective equipment. Engineering controls might redesign or change the workspace to reduce risk, while substitution replaces a hazardous material with a less hazardous one. Personal protective equipment serves as a last line of defense to protect individuals but does not eliminate the hazard itself. Each of these methods may be effective in certain contexts, but none has the comprehensive safety impact that eliminating the hazard can achieve.