EHS glossary>Safety term

The Definition of Engineering Controls

Engineering controls are ‍physical changes to a workplace or equipment designed to eliminate or reduce exposure to a hazard.

Plain-English definition
Real-world example

Definition of Engineering Controls

‍Physical changes to a workplace or equipment designed to eliminate or reduce exposure to a hazard.

Example of Engineering Controls

Installing a machine guard to prevent contact with moving parts.

Part of SafetyIQ's EHS glossary: plain-English definitions of workplace health and safety terms.

> Keep learning

More EHS terms

Browse the full glossary >

> See it in action

Put these safety terms into practice with SafetyIQ

Capture hazards, run inspections, track training and close out corrective actions in one platform built for high-risk, field-heavy work.

Book my free demo
★★★★★
4.8 out of 5 stars on
G2
G2 High Performer, Fall 2026