What general strategy is used to remove hazards from an incident scene?

The strategy of using engineering controls is central to effectively removing hazards from an incident scene. Engineering controls involve designing or modifying the physical environment to eliminate hazards or reduce exposure to them. This can include installing barriers, ventilation systems, or changing the way a process occurs to mitigate risks.

For instance, if there's a risk of toxic fumes at a site, engineering controls might involve installing air scrubbers or improving ventilation to ensure a safer atmosphere. This proactive approach targets the hazard directly at its source, making it a powerful and effective strategy in incident management.

In contrast, personal protective equipment (PPE) is an important measure but focuses more on protecting individuals from hazards rather than removing the hazards themselves. Similarly, administrative controls involve procedures and policies designed to minimize risk, but they do not physically eliminate the hazards. Hazard control zones are a method of managing risks on site through designated areas, but they also do not directly remove hazards from the scene.