What is the purpose of administrative controls in workplace safety?

Administrative controls are essential elements in workplace safety, focusing on reducing employees' exposure to potential hazards rather than relying solely on physical means of protection.

These controls aim to change the way work is organized, which may include altering work schedules, implementing job rotation, establishing safety procedures, and enforcing rules that limit the duration and intensity of exposure to hazards. By effectively managing these variables, organizations can mitigate risks and enhance overall safety.

For instance, introducing measures such as regular breaks for workers in high-risk environments or changing shifts to decrease exposure time can be significant practices of administrative controls. While personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial, administrative controls serve as a proactive approach to ensure a safer work environment by minimizing potential hazards at the source. This contrasts with the options that suggest more reactive or rigid approaches without addressing the underlying work procedures.