Use the hierarchy of controls to choose stronger product safety controls before relying on warnings.
The move: ask what control sits above the warning. Warnings matter, but they are user-dependent controls. The hierarchy of controls pushes the team to first reduce the hazard itself. Remove or substitute Can the sharp edge, pinch point, heat, chemical, voltage, or unstable geometry be removed or replaced with a safer choice? This is strongest because the user does not have to remember anything. Engineer the protection Can the design include a guard, interlock, limiter, enclosure, lockout, rounded edge, lower temperature, or fail-safe state? Engineering controls work at the point of hazard. Communicate residual risk Instructions and warnings should explain…
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