What line of defense is personal protective equipment (PPE) considered? substitution last line of defense first line of defense second line of defense

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is considered the last line of defense in the hierarchy of controls for occupational safety. The hierarchy of controls is a system used to minimize or eliminate exposure to hazards in the workplace. It is organized in a way that prioritizes the most effective control measures, with the least effective controls at the bottom.The hierarchy of controls is as follows:1. Elimination: Completely removing the hazard from the workplace.2. Substitution: Replacing the hazard with a less hazardous alternative.3. Engineering controls: Isolating people from the hazard using physical barriers or equipment.4. Administrative controls: Changing the way people work, such as implementing policies or procedures.5. Personal protective equipment (PPE): Using equipment or clothing to protect workers from hazards.PPE is considered the last line of defense because it relies on the worker to wear the equipment correctly and consistently, which may not always happen. It is important to note that PPE should be used in conjunction with other control measures, not as a standalone solution.