In applying the five steps of the IH process to reduce exposure, which sequence is correct?

• A. Anticipate hazards, observe process, measure exposure
• B. Observe process, anticipate hazards, implement controls
• C. Anticipate hazards, observe process, measure exposure, implement controls (engineering first), verify effectiveness with follow-up sampling
• D. Measure exposure, verify effectiveness, anticipate hazards, observe process

Answer: (C)

The key idea is to manage risk in a data‑driven, preventive way: first anticipate hazards, then observe how the work is actually done, then measure exposure to quantify the problem, followed by implementing controls (with a preference for engineering controls), and finally verify that those controls are effective through follow‑up sampling.

Measuring exposure before installing controls creates a baseline so you know the magnitude of the problem and can target the right measures. Implementing controls after you have solid exposure data ensures the actions address the real risk and are appropriately sized. Verifying effectiveness afterward closes the loop, showing that exposures have actually been reduced in practice and allowing adjustments if needed.

Other sequences skip the measurement step, or place controls before confirming the exposure level, or verify before implementing, which breaks the logical flow of identifying risk, assessing it, and then confirming that the controls worked.