Which statement is true regarding low and medium risk substances?

• A. They require standard exposure controls
• B. They require no exposure controls
• C. They require specialized containment
• D. They require only training

Answer: (A)

Managing exposure based on how hazardous a substance is relies on using controls that match the level of risk. For low and medium risk substances, standard exposure controls provide adequate protection, combining basic engineering measures, safe handling practices, and protective equipment as needed. This means ensuring general ventilation, proper storage and labeling, good housekeeping, accessible safety data sheets, and training on safe handling and spill response, with PPE used appropriately. Specialized containment is reserved for higher-risk substances where standard measures might not be enough. Exposing workers without any controls would be unsafe, and relying on training alone isn’t enough because physical and engineering protections are necessary to actually limit exposure. So, standard exposure controls are the appropriate requirement for these risk levels.