Which of the following is the highest level in the Hierarchy of Controls?

• A. Substitute
• B. Eliminate
• C. PPE
• D. Administration

Answer: (B)

The strongest protection comes from removing the hazard entirely from the workplace. When the hazard is eliminated, there is nothing left to expose workers to, so the risk is stopped at the source regardless of what people do or what equipment is used. That’s why elimination sits at the top of the Hierarchy of Controls—it prevents exposure outright rather than just reducing it.

Substitution still leaves a hazard present, just a less dangerous form, so it lowers risk but doesn’t remove the source. Engineering controls and administrative measures, as well as personal protective equipment, can significantly reduce exposure, but they rely on correct design, consistent use, maintenance, and human behavior, and they can fail or be bypassed. In mining terms, eliminating a hazard might mean stopping a process that creates a dangerous condition or removing a risky operation altogether, rather than shielding workers or relying on procedures.

So, the highest level is elimination because it removes the hazard at the source, providing the most robust protection.