Corrective Actions

Sometimes you need to take an interim action, such as blocking off a dangerous footpath, whilst the issue is being resolved (in this example, by facilities repairing the footpath!)

When deciding what corrective action should be taken, always try to use the most effective controls:

Start with trying to Eliminate the hazard.
Can you Substitute something else for whatever is causing the hazard?
If that is not possible, can the hazard be Isolated?
Is there an Engineering solution to control the hazard?
What Administrative controls (e.g. procedures or training) can you put in place?
Will Personal Protective Clothing and Equipment be effective in controlling the hazard?

Unfortunately, it is not adequate to default to the easiest control: you need to apply the most effective, and if it is not possible to apply one of the higher ranked controls, justify why this is so.

Examples of Controls

Some examples of controls which have been implemented in the past include:

Elimination

• using a physical process instead of a chemical process, e.g. using ultrasound to clean equipment instead of a process involving chemicals

• use detergent instead of chlorinated solvent for cleaning
• use water-based chemicals instead of solvent-based chemicals where compatible
• paint with a brush instead of spraying
• purchase a substance in a safer form, e.g. use less concentrated liquids in ready-to-use form instead of concentrates that require decanting or mixing
• use pellets instead of powder that reduces the amount of dust formed

• use closed systems
• isolate the process to one room with restricted access or use appropriate barriers/screens to separate substances
• move the process into a positive/negative pressure laboratory or room
• distance workers from substances/processes through the use of remote controls
• distance property, incompatible chemicals and ignition sources (e.g. flames, sparks) from goods

• use fully or partially enclosed ventilation booths
• fully or partially enclose the process with exhaust extraction
• use local exhaust or natural ventilation systems (e.g. air ducts, open doors/windows)
• use robots
• design buildings that are: compatible with the intended goods; made of non-combustible construction as far as is practicable; and designed to reduce contamination
• use bunding to contain spillage
• install drains, tanks or sumps to cope with spilled material
• install automatic fire protection and chemical suppression systems

• reduce the amount of property or the number of employees exposed
• reduce the duration and/or frequency of exposure, e.g. through job rotation
• reduce the amount of goods/products stored and used
• ensure safe interim storage of wastes/products (e.g. labelled properly in suitable containers stored away from people, the environment, incompatible chemicals, ignition sources etc.)
• vacuum or wet sweep to suppress dust being generated
• cover containers and make sure lids are attached
• clean up spills immediately (includes provision of suitable aids and equipment)
• ensure there is no eating, drinking or smoking in areas where substances are used
• provide suitable washing facilities
• provide First Aid facilities
• instruct employees on how to use substances/ equipment safely

• overalls, aprons, gowns, chemical resistant suits
• footwear (enclosed shoes, safety boots)
• gloves
• chemical resistant glasses (safety glasses)
• face shields, masks, full-face and half-face respirators
• head protection