What is an example of an engineering control?

Engineering controls are methods implemented to reduce or eliminate hazards in the workplace by designing safety features into the equipment or processes, rather than relying on personal protective equipment or administrative practices.

The correct answer implies that none of the provided options exemplify engineering controls. The first choice refers to personal protective equipment (PPE), which is utilized to protect individual workers rather than changing the physical environment or equipment. The second option involves administrative controls, which focus on policies and procedures for safe practice but do not involve physical modifications to the environment. Both options emphasize worker protection without altering the hazard at its source.

In contrast, examples of engineering controls might include installing safety guards on machines, using ventilation systems to remove airborne contaminants, or implementing automated systems that minimize human exposure to hazardous materials. These types of controls inherently reduce risk by modifying working conditions rather than relying solely on individuals' adherence to safety measures or using personal protective gear.