Procedural controls - Are they effective?
In dealing with measures to mitigate risk, it often happens that procedures are chosen as a control action. This is understandable, because higher-level controls that are available may be less feasible or more costly. Eliminating the source of the risk - or redesigning the equipment or systems - are likely to be more effective than procedural controls, but the cost benefit may not be demonstrated. This concept is recognised in regulations. For example, NSW Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001 obliges us to adopt measures (in the order specified) to minimise risk to the lowest level reasonably practical. Procedural controls rate second last in the hierarchy. Despite this, procedural controls are commonly used. But just how effective are they? What can be done to strengthen them as a control measure? Are there cases where their use would be ill advised?...
Download PDF
|
