The IP Lead can use the Hierarchy of Controls to help and support the IPC work.  Examples of the controls are as follows

Elimination and substitution are best used in the design or development of a process as they can be difficult and expensive actions to adapt into an existing process. A good opportunity to use elimination and substitution is when selecting new equipment or designing new procedures. 

Elimination removes the hazard at the source.  It is the first solution to protect employees by removing exposure to any risk and often involves changing the work processes i.e., doing the job in a different way. 

Substitution is replacing the source of the hazard for a safer option.  A risk assessment of the substitute is required in order to ensure it is not more hazardous than the original and that it fits in with other agents in the workplace. Effective substitutes reduce the potential for harmful effects and do not create new risks. 

Engineering controls reduce or prevent exposure and include modifying equipment or the workspace, using protective barriers and ventilation, etc. The most effective engineering controls  

Are part of the original equipment design 

Remove or block the hazard at the source preventing contact with residents or employees 

Operate correctly without interfering with the work process or making the work process more difficult 

Prevent modifying or interfering with the control 

Need minimal user input for the controls to work 

Engineering controls can be expensive but long-term operating costs tend to be lower, especially when protecting multiple workers. They can save money in other areas of the work process or facility operation.  

Administrative controls establish work practices that reduce the duration, frequency, or intensity of exposure to hazards and may include 

Education and training 

Job rotation 

Ensuring adequate rest breaks 

Limiting access to hazardous areas or machinery 

PPE refers to various barriers worn alone or in combination to protect residents, employees and visitors from hazardous substances, e.g. blood and body fluids, chemicals, infections organisms, etc. A PPE programme should consider 

Workplace hazards assessment 

Selection and use of PPE

Inspection and replacement of damaged or worn-out PPE 

Employee training 

Monitoring for continued effectiveness 

It’s important not to rely on PPE alone to control hazards when other effective control options are available. PPE will be effective only when used correctly and consistently.