Administrative Controls

Administrative controls limit workers' exposures by scheduling shorter work times in contaminant areas or by implementing other "rules". These control measures have many limitations because the hazard itself is not actually removed or reduced. Administrative controls are not generally favoured because they can be difficult to implement and maintain and are not a reliable way to reduce exposure. When necessary, methods of administrative control include:

• Scheduling maintenance and other high-exposure operations for times when few workers are present (such as evenings, and weekends).
• Using job-rotation schedules that limit the amount of time an individual worker is exposed to a substance.
• Using a work-rest schedule that limits the length of time a worker is exposed to a hazard.

Work Practices

Work practices are also a form of administrative control. In most workplaces, even if there are well-designed and well-maintained engineering controls present, safe work practices are very important. Some elements of safe work practices include:

Developing and implementing standard operating procedures.

• Training and education of employees about the operating procedures as well as other necessary workplace training (including SDS Safety Data Sheets).
• Establishing and maintaining good housekeeping programmes.
• Keeping equipment well maintained.
• Preparing and training for emergency response for incidents such as spills, fires or employee injury.

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SDS Safety Data Sheets

Education and Training

Education and training provide employers, managers, supervisors, and workers with the knowledge and skills needed to do their work safely and avoid creating hazards that could place themselves or others at risk. The employee who receives the necessary training is more able to perform their job safely. A training programme allows you to strengthen those skills that each employee needs to improve. A development programme brings all employees to a higher level, so they all have similar skills and knowledge.

Good Housekeeping

Good housekeeping is essential to prevent the accumulation of hazardous or toxic materials (e.g. build-up of dust or contaminant on ledges, or beams), or hazardous conditions (e.g. poor stockpiling).