What is the last resort when all other hazard control measures cannot adequately mitigate risks?

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is considered the last resort in the hierarchy of hazard control measures. This is because PPE is utilized to protect the individual wearing it from hazards that cannot be effectively mitigated by other means.

When all other control strategies, such as engineering controls (which involve designing safer systems or equipment) and administrative controls (which include policies and procedures), have been exhausted and are insufficient in providing adequate risk mitigation, the use of PPE becomes necessary. PPE serves as a barrier between the user and the hazard, but it is most effective when used in conjunction with other controls.

Moreover, reliance on PPE is less desirable compared to systematic hazard elimination or engineering controls since these approaches tackle the risk at its source rather than simply protecting the individual. Proper training and adherence to using PPE are also critical to ensure it serves its purpose effectively, reinforcing its status as a secondary or last option in risk management strategies.