If a hazard cannot be eliminated or substituted, the next step in the Hierarchy of Controls is to use _______ controls.

The correct answer is engineering controls. Engineering controls are designed to isolate people from the hazard or modify the environment to reduce the hazard's impact. When a hazard cannot be eliminated or substituted, implementing engineering controls is critical because they can effectively minimize exposure to the hazard by altering physical aspects of the workplace.

For example, installing machine guards, improving ventilation systems, or using sound barriers are all forms of engineering controls that can help protect workers. These methods are preferred over administrative controls and personal protective equipment because they address the hazard at its source, thus providing a more robust and reliable safety measure.

Administrative controls and personal protective equipment are important elements of workplace safety, but they tend to rely on behavior changes and the correct use of gear on the workers. This can lead to varying effectiveness due to human error or complacency. In contrast, engineering controls provide a more passive means of protection, ensuring that risks are minimized regardless of individual compliance.