Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) Practice Test 2025 – All-in-One Study Guide for Exam Success!

Using personal protective equipment (PPE) is considered the last resort in controlling hazards due to its nature as a secondary line of defense. PPE is an essential aspect of safety protocols, as it directly protects workers from exposure to hazards, but it does not eliminate the hazards themselves. Relying solely on PPE means that the hazard still exists in the environment, and workers are left to manage the risk through individual responsibility and vigilance.

In contrast, methods such as engineering controls aim to eliminate or reduce hazards at their source, which is the most effective way to ensure safety and to minimize risk. Administrative controls can help in modifying work practices and policies to reduce exposure to hazards, creating a safer environment. The elimination of the hazard is the most effective method, as it completely removes the risk rather than just managing or mitigating it.

Therefore, while PPE is vital for personal protection, its use should be seen as a final step after more effective methods of hazard control have been considered and, if possible, implemented. This hierarchy of controls underscores the importance of addressing hazards in a systematic way, prioritizing more effective solutions before relying on individual protective measures.