Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP) Practice Exam

Which term describes changing how people work to enhance safety?

1. PPE

2. Administrative controls

3. Substitution

4. Engineering controls

The correct answer is: Administrative controls

The term that describes changing how people work to enhance safety is known as administrative controls. This involves implementing rules, policies, or procedures aimed at improving workplace safety and health by altering the way tasks are performed. Administrative controls can include various strategies such as job rotation to minimize repetitive strain injuries, implementing mandatory safety training, or establishing strict protocols that govern the use of equipment or handling hazardous materials. While personal protective equipment (PPE) offers protection to workers, it does not alter how tasks are completed. Substitution refers to replacing hazardous materials or processes with safer alternatives, which does not involve changes to work procedures themselves. Engineering controls focus on modifying physical aspects of the workplace, such as installing guardrails or ventilation systems, rather than directly changing human behaviors or work processes. Administrative controls effectively bridge the gap between worker behavior and safety by modifying procedures to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.