Which of the following best describes engineering controls?

Engineering controls are best defined as physical modifications aimed at reducing exposure to hazards in the workplace. This approach involves redesigning or altering equipment, processes, or the work environment to minimize the risk of injury or illness. For example, installing ventilation systems, safety guards on machinery, or barriers to isolate hazards are all forms of engineering controls.

The effectiveness of these controls lies in their ability to address hazards at the source, thereby protecting workers without relying solely on individual behavior or personal protective equipment. Such modifications are essential because they create safer environments that are less dependent on human actions, which can sometimes be inconsistent or unpredictable.

In contrast, focusing solely on behavioral changes among workers emphasizes personal responsibility and training, which, while important, do not inherently eliminate the risks posed by workplace hazards. Relying exclusively on personal protective equipment manages risks without fundamentally addressing their source, and while regulatory approval is necessary for certain safety modifications, it is not a defining characteristic of engineering controls themselves.