Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP) Practice Exam

What is an example of an administrative control in a hazardous work environment?

1. Implementing a new safety protocol

2. Using PPE

3. Substituting a less flammable substance

4. Installing physical barriers

The correct answer is: Implementing a new safety protocol

In the context of hazardous work environments, administrative controls refer to practices or policies that manage and limit exposure to hazards through organizational procedures rather than physical changes or the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Implementing a new safety protocol exemplifies an administrative control as it involves creating guidelines or rules aimed at improving safety and reducing potential risks in the workplace. Such protocols can include training programs, safety audits, standard operating procedures, and other measures that inform workers about best practices and reinforce safety culture. By establishing clear procedures and processes, organizations can effectively mitigate potential hazards and promote safer work practices, distinguishing this approach from others which focus directly on changing materials, physical layouts, or personal equipment. The other options focus on direct interactions with hazards: PPE provides individual protection, substituting materials alters the nature of the materials used, and installing barriers creates physical separations—all of which serve different roles than administrative controls.