Which of the following is an example of engineering controls in a healthcare setting?

Engineering controls are designed to reduce the risk of injury or exposure to hazards through the use of built-in safety features or design modifications. In the context of healthcare, these controls are specifically focused on altering or redesigning environments or tools to minimize risks.

The use of safety needles or needleless systems exemplifies engineering controls as these devices are specifically designed to reduce the risk of needle-stick injuries, which can lead to the transmission of bloodborne pathogens. By eliminating the need for traditional needles or incorporating safety mechanisms directly into the device design, these solutions effectively enhance safety for healthcare workers and patients alike without relying solely on behavior changes or personal protective measures.

Conversely, handwashing stations are important for maintaining hygiene but are primarily administrative controls concerned with behavior rather than physical design. Personal protective equipment (PPE) serves as a barrier for individuals rather than altering the environment or equipment itself. Regular training sessions are essential for awareness and proper protocol adherence but do not constitute engineering controls since they focus on human actions rather than modifying equipment or environments to reduce hazards.