PPE hierarchy emphasizes which approach?

• A. PPE first, then engineering controls
• B. Administrative controls only
• C. Elimination/substitution and engineering controls first, PPE as a last resort
• D. No controls, rely on worker vigilance

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that hazard control is layered, with the most effective measures applied first and PPE reserved for the last line of defense. Elimination or substitution removes or reduces the hazard at the source, and engineering controls isolate or reduce exposure through things like ventilation, enclosure, or process changes. If exposures still exist, administrative controls—such as safe work practices and training—are added. PPE is used only when exposures remain after implementing these higher-level controls.

So the best answer reflects that order: eliminate or substitute the hazard and use engineering controls first, with PPE as a last resort. The other options fall short because they place PPE before higher-level controls, rely on administrative controls only, or assume no controls are needed at all.