On the hierarchy of controls, what does getting vaccinated count as?
Thinking about the COVID vaccine, where would that fit in on the hierarchy?
Thinking either elimination or substitution. What are your thoughts there?
Comments (8)
I would say PPE. It is like giving some one a low rated cut-resistant gloves. There is a chance they could get cut but not as bad if they did not have gloves at all. And like most PPE the employee needs to use it.
My thoughts are engineering controls because you are lessening the chance of catching the virus with the vaccine. It is not 100% but either are all engineering controls. Think of a local exhaust ventilation system for chemical exposure.
Administrative
I personally feel as though this should not even be placed on the realm of a control. This is a personal choice for individuals and not a required safety control.
I'd lean towards Personal Protective Equipment. I agree with John and Adam that it is not eliminating or substituting a hazard. Staying home when you are I'll eliminates the spread of the hazard to other employees. Proper hygiene and social distancing are substitutions. Administrative control of a policy could require it, much like PPE is required by policies, but while the vaccine was engineered (just as gloves and respirators are engineered), I don't think it would be an engineering control. Engineering controls properly installed prevent employee's physical access to the dangerous parts (hot elements, rotating equipment, etc.) and can be physically removed or bypassed. Even with a policy in place, the vaccine is a choice of the employee to get it or not, and it does not completely protect against illness (still has breakthrough as do gloves and protective clothing). Some are still able to get sick after being vaccinated, and once installed, it cannot be removed as machine guarding can be. Also, just as with PPE, it is a last resort especially as many choose not to get it and prefer masks and barriers for protection.
I agree with John’s reasoning. Engineering control for sure. The hazard (virus) hasn’t been eliminated or substituted.
I would say engineering. The vaccination isn't 100% effective and not everyone can safely take the vaccine so wouldn't use elimination. Also dont think you're really substituting anything either. You are simply just adding a protective measure.