CSLB C-10 Electrical ContractorSafety and TestingHard
According to Cal/OSHA, if an electrical hazard is identified that cannot be eliminated or reduced to a safe level, what is the LAST resort for protecting workers?
- ARe-designing the electrical system.
- BEstablishing administrative controls.
- CProviding personal protective equipment (PPE).
- DImplementing engineering controls.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Providing personal protective equipment (PPE).
Cal/OSHA, like other safety regulations, follows a hierarchy of controls. PPE is considered the last line of defense when hazards cannot be eliminated (e.g., through de-energization or re-design) or effectively controlled through engineering or administrative measures. It protects the worker, but doesn't eliminate the hazard itself.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Re-designing the system is a form of elimination or substitution, which is the highest level of control, not the last resort.
- B. Administrative controls (e.g., safe work procedures, training) are higher on the hierarchy than PPE.
- D. Engineering controls (e.g., guarding, interlocks) are high on the hierarchy, preferred over administrative controls and PPE.
Hierarchy of Controls (Cal/OSHA)
A systematic approach to controlling hazards, prioritizing elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and finally, personal protective equipment (PPE) as the least effective but often necessary last resort.
- Elimination/Substitution are most effective.
- Engineering controls modify the work environment.
- Administrative controls modify work practices.
- PPE is the last line of defense, protecting the worker from the hazard.
Memory trick: Eliminate, Substitute, Engineer, Administer, Protect!