Final answer:
The preferred order of controlling hazards for hazardous materials is engineering controls first, followed by administrative controls, and lastly personal protective equipment (PPE). This sequence is designed to prioritize the most effective control methods, starting from eliminating the hazard to protecting the individual.
Step-by-step explanation:
The preferred order of controlling hazards or hierarchy of controls for hazardous materials follows a specific sequence to ensure the most effective means of protecting workers from hazards. The correct answer to which sequence is preferred is:
- Engineering controls
- Administrative controls
- Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Therefore, the correct answer is a) Engineering controls, administrative controls, personal protective equipment (PPE).
Engineering controls involve redesigning or modifying equipment or processes to reduce exposure to the hazard. When engineering controls are not feasible or do not eliminate the hazard, administrative controls are implemented, which include changes in working procedures such as scheduling to minimize exposure. Lastly, if the hazard cannot be removed or adequately controlled by engineering or administrative means, personal protective equipment (PPE) is used as a final barrier to protect individuals from the hazard.