The hierarchy of controls is the foundation of occupational health and safety — and nowhere is it more important than in managing crystalline silica exposure. This article explains how to apply the hierarchy to stone fabrication, from elimination (most effective) to PPE (least effective).

{HL}Too many shops start with PPE — respirators, gloves, coveralls — and stop there. But OSHA and every OHS regulator worldwide requires a top-down approach: elimination first, then substitution, then engineering controls, then administrative controls, then PPE as a last resort. If your silica control program starts and ends with “wear a mask,” you’re not compliant.{HLE}

The Five Levels

• Elimination: Remove the hazard entirely. Use silica-free materials instead of quartz.
• Substitution: Replace a hazardous material with a less hazardous one. Switch from high-silica stone to low-silica or zero-silica products.
• Engineering controls: Isolate workers from the hazard. Wet-cutting systems, LEV, enclosed cutting booths, water curtain saws.
• Administrative controls: Change how people work. Job rotation, restricted access zones, housekeeping procedures, training.
• PPE: The last line of defence. Respirators, protective clothing. Required when other controls can’t reduce exposure below PEL.

Recommended Resources

• Global Regulations Tracker — Stay current on silica bans worldwide
• B2B Sourcing Guides — Find and verify silica-free suppliers
• Verify Silica-Free Claims — 10-point documentation checklist
• Zero vs Low Silica Guide — Technical comparison
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