California Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) Written Practice Exam

The correct choice identifies engineering controls as materials and devices specifically designed to eliminate or minimize workers' exposure to hazardous or infectious substances. Engineering controls are a critical aspect of workplace safety, as they involve physical modifications to the environment or the use of equipment that directly reduce the risk of exposure to health hazards. Examples include safety guards on machinery, ventilation systems that remove airborne contaminants, or safety features on dental equipment that prevent contact with infectious materials.

This focus on physical safety mechanisms distinguishes engineering controls from other safety measures. For instance, policies and procedures aimed at preventing accidents do play an important role in workplace safety, but they typically fall under administrative controls rather than engineering controls. Similarly, while educational programs enhance safety awareness among employees, they do not represent physical solutions to hazards. Inspections and maintenance routines are also essential, but they ensure that existing safety measures are effective rather than installing new protective devices or systems. Thus, the definition of engineering controls is centered on the tangible elements that actively work to safeguard employees from exposure to danger.