Riskinhallintajärjestyksen

Riskinhallintajärjestyksen, often translated as risk management hierarchy or risk control hierarchy, is a conceptual framework used in occupational health and safety and general risk management. It outlines a prioritized approach to controlling hazards, aiming to eliminate or reduce risks to an acceptable level. The order of preference is crucial: elimination of the hazard is the most effective control measure, followed by substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and finally, personal protective equipment (PPE).

Elimination involves removing the hazard entirely from the workplace or process. Substitution means replacing the hazardous substance or process with a less hazardous one. Engineering controls are physical changes to the workplace or equipment designed to isolate people from the hazard, such as ventilation systems or machine guards. Administrative controls involve changes to work practices or procedures, like limiting exposure time or implementing safety training. Personal Protective Equipment is considered the least effective control measure as it relies on the worker correctly using and maintaining the equipment and does not remove the hazard itself.

The effectiveness of each level decreases as you move down the hierarchy. Therefore, organizations are encouraged to implement controls as high up the hierarchy as possible. This systematic approach ensures that risks are managed in the most robust and sustainable way, prioritizing the well-being of individuals and the integrity of operations. The risk management hierarchy is a fundamental tool for developing effective safety strategies and complying with regulatory requirements.