Administrative controls

Administrative controls are training, procedure, policy, or shift designs that lessen the threat of a hazard to an individual.

[1] Administrative controls typically change the behavior of people (e.g., factory workers) rather than removing the actual hazard or providing personal protective equipment (PPE).

Administrative controls are second lowest because they require workers or employers to actively think or comply with regulations and do not offer permanent solutions to problems.

[3] Generally, administrative controls are cheaper to begin, but they may become more expensive over time as higher failure rates and the need for constant training or re-certification eclipse the initial investments of the three more desirable hazard controls in the hierarchy.

[5][6][7] Other examples include hours of service regulations for commercial vehicle operators,[8] Safety signage for hazards,[9] and regular maintenance of equipment.