What is an example of an administrative control in workplace safety?

An administrative control in workplace safety refers to policies, procedures, and practices that are implemented to manage and reduce risks in the workplace. Providing written safety policies and procedures is a clear example of an administrative control because it establishes guidelines and protocols for safe work practices. These documents serve to inform employees about safety expectations, emergency procedures, and general safety regulations, thereby helping to promote a culture of safety within the organization and ensuring that all workers understand their responsibilities.

By contrast, installing safety guards on machinery, using personal protective equipment, and implementing engineering solutions focus more on physical modifications or added equipment to improve safety and reduce hazards. While these are essential parts of an overall safety strategy, they fall under different categories: engineering controls and personal protective measures, rather than administrative controls. Administrative controls are crucial in providing a framework that guides behavior and actions of employees to foster a safe working environment.