Which control method is most effective for eliminating air contaminants?

Engineering controls represent the most effective method for eliminating air contaminants because they involve the design or modification of equipment, processes, or workspace to reduce exposure to harmful substances at their source. This approach often includes systems like ventilation, filtration, and the use of enclosures or isolation of processes that generate contaminants. By eliminating or reducing the hazard itself, engineering controls provide a more sustainable and effective solution compared to other methods.

In contrast, personal protective equipment (PPE) serves as a barrier between the individual and the contaminant but does not eliminate the hazard itself, which means that there's still a risk of exposure if the equipment fails or is not used properly. Administrative controls involve policies, procedures, and practices aimed at reducing exposure risk, but these rely heavily on individual compliance and are often less effective than modifications made at the source of the contamination. Thus, while PPE and administrative controls are valuable components of a comprehensive safety program, they do not provide the same level of effectiveness in eliminating air contaminants as engineering controls do.