When controlling risks, apply the principles below, if possible in the following order:

• remove hazard (eg replace pesticide with 'organic process')
• try a less risky option (eg switch from chemical pesticide to 'biological' control)
• prevent access to the hazard (eg by guarding);
• organise work to reduce exposure to the hazard (eg put barriers between pedestrians and traffic);
• issue personal protective equipment (eg clothing, footwear, goggles etc); and
• provide welfare facilities (eg first aid and washing facilities for removal of contamination).

This hierachy says that the earlier in the process (hazard - risk - harm) that you can intervene the more effective it is.

The Hierachy of Control of Hazards requires you to first

See if you can eliminate hazards at source if possible. If not,

Try and substitute with something less dangerous (eg substitute trike with genklene). If this isn't practicable,

Try to enclose (eg box in noise, guards for saws). Try and exhaust fumes away from operators. As a last resort,

Use personal protection, which will need maintenance.

Identify various measures that can be used. This will be a mixture of technical specifications, safety standards & practices, personal communication and procedures, formal or informal

Complete List of HSE Guidance documents explaining legal requirements and best practice

Importance of following manufacturers’ instructions for the use of equipment, materials and products, to include:
• Awareness of hazards/risks and control measures for safe use
• Awareness of operating parameters/restrictions
• Maintenance requirements
• Optimise performance

Write what you consider each of these signs mean in the box to the right (to link to xhtml page with table/signs)