Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP) Practice Exam

What type of controls are employee training and medical surveillance aimed at protecting workers from hazards?

1. Engineering controls

2. Hygiene controls

3. Administrative controls

4. Work practice controls

The correct answer is: Administrative controls

Employee training and medical surveillance are classified as administrative controls because they focus on policies, procedures, and practices designed to manage worker exposure to hazards. Administrative controls are implemented to create a safer work environment by influencing how work is performed and educating employees about the risks they may encounter. For example, training provides workers with the knowledge and skills needed to recognize hazards and take appropriate actions to avoid them, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents or injuries. Medical surveillance involves regular health assessments and monitoring of workers to identify any potential health issues related to exposure to workplace hazards, allowing for timely intervention and modification of workplace practices to ensure employee safety. In contrast, engineering controls refer to physical modifications to the workplace or equipment that reduce or eliminate exposure to hazards, such as ventilation systems or machine guards. Hygiene controls focus on maintaining cleanliness and sanitation in the workplace to reduce the risk of exposure to harmful substances. Work practice controls involve changes in procedures or behaviors, such as ensuring proper use of personal protective equipment or modifying work schedules to limit exposure time. Each of these approaches has its own significance, but administrative controls specifically relate to the training and monitoring aspects necessary for protecting workers.