Which type of control directly modifies physical work conditions?

The correct answer is Engineering Controls, as these are specifically designed to alter or modify the work environment to reduce or eliminate hazards. Their primary focus is on the physical aspects of the workplace, such as machinery, processes, and tools, which can directly impact worker safety.

Engineering controls can include the installation of ventilation systems to remove harmful airborne particles, the use of safety guards on machinery to prevent accidental contact, or the redesign of equipment to enhance safety features. By addressing hazards at the source or implementing modifications to equipment, engineering controls effectively change the conditions under which work is performed, leading to a safer and more controlled work environment.

In contrast, environmental controls typically refer to regulations or measures that govern overall environmental conditions, which may not specifically involve modifications to physical work conditions. Administrative controls focus on policies, procedures, and practices established to manage and mitigate safety risks, while behavioral controls emphasize training and behavior modification for employees to promote safety. While all these controls play significant roles in a comprehensive safety program, engineering controls are unique in their direct modification of the physical workspace to enhance safety.