What is the primary role of controls in RM?

• A. To increase hazard exposure
• B. To reduce the likelihood or impact of hazards
• C. To document hazards only
• D. To replace training

Answer: (B)

Controls in RM are the measures put in place to lower risk by preventing hazards from causing harm or by reducing the severity if harm occurs. After identifying hazards and assessing their likelihood and potential impact, you choose controls to bring the overall risk down to an acceptable level. These controls can be engineering solutions (like guards or redesigns), administrative actions (procedures, checklists, supervision), or personal protective equipment. The aim is not to increase exposure, nor to merely document hazards, and it does not replace training; training remains important, but the primary function of controls is to reduce either the probability of a hazard happening or the impact if it does.