Prevention and Control Measures.

DOE-STD-6005-2001

Communication between the industrial hygienist and the analytical laboratory should

include:

a. Description of the process being sampled.

b. Description of any health problems experienced by exposed workers.

c. Goal of the sampling (i.e., how the data will be used).

(See also DOE G 440.1-1, Section 4.3.2; DOE G 440.1-3, Section 4.4.2; and DOE G

440.1-7, Sections IV.3.3.1 and IV-7.)

5.5

Prevention and Control Measures.

DOE and contractor line management are required to utilize appropriate engineering,

administrative, work practice, and/or personal protective control methods to limit hazardous

exposures to acceptable levels. [Reference: DOE O 440.1A, paragraph 4.j; Attachment 1,

paragraph 5.e; and Attachment 2, paragraphs 10 and 18.e.]

Often, there are several alternative approaches to preventing or controlling hazardous

exposures. In such cases, front-line workers and supervisors are often the most knowledgeable

about which options would be the most effective. Such worker involvement can help in

identifying useful prevention and control measures, promote communication about the rationale

behind the choice of a particular alternative, and encourage worker acceptance of the decision.

Based on this input, the senior industrial hygienist should recommend to facility management

the best prevention and control measures for reducing/minimizing the hazardous exposures of

employees.

5.5.1 Hierarchy of Controls.

DOE and OSHA require that control measures be prioritized in accordance with the

following hierarchy of controls:

Engineering controls:

Change to a less hazardous process or substitute a less hazardous material or

piece of equipment.

Isolate or enclose the process or operation to prevent worker exposure to

hazardous agents.

Use mechanical ventilation or other engineered controls to prevent or reduce

worker exposure to hazardous agents.

Work practice and administrative controls that limit worker exposures:

Although administrative controls can minimize worker exposures, they are often

unreliable and difficult to implement. For this reason, engineering controls are

preferable to administrative and work practice controls.

Develop work practices and procedures (e.g., standard operating procedures,

limited access, and showering and changing clothes) to reduce/minimize

hazardous exposures.

Maintain administrative controls (e.g., schedule hazardous activities during

periods when few employees are present).