What is "engineering control" in the context of RWP?

In the context of the Roadway Worker Protection (RWP) Program, "engineering control" refers to physical modifications made to the work environment to reduce or eliminate hazards. This approach is centered on designing the workplace and its equipment in such a way that it minimizes the potential risks that roadway workers face. For example, installing barriers, modifying equipment for safer operation, or enhancing signaling systems are all examples of engineering controls that directly impact the physical space in which workers operate.

By focusing on these physical changes, engineering controls aim to provide a safer working environment, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents or injuries. This is a proactive measure that directly affects the source of hazards rather than relying solely on worker behavior or protective equipment to manage risk, which reinforces the importance of this type of control in workplace safety strategies.