Show notes
In this episode of the Women in Safety podcast, Alanna Ball and Amy Morris take a practical look at risk treatment options and the hierarchy of controls, unpacking how safety decisions are shaped through systems, design, and context. Rather than treating controls as a checklist exercise, the conversation explores how safety professionals can think more critically about what is actually effective, what is simply assumed to work, and where gaps may still exist.The discussion moves beyond theory and into the realities of risk management, including the difference between active and passive controls, the value of bow tie analysis, and why safety should be considered much earlier in the planning and design of work. Alanna and Amy also highlight the importance of testing and verifying controls, rather than assuming they are effective just because they are documented.Episode HighlightsWhy safety often sits within data, decisions, and systems, not just frontline actionsHow the hierarchy of controls can support risk management, while still requiring context and critical thinkingThe importance of understanding the difference between active and passive controlsHow the bow tie method can help identify gaps in risk treatment and control effectivenessWhy safety professionals should be involved during the planning and design stages of workThe need to test, verify, and review controls rather than relying on assumptionsHow designing good work can help prevent both physical and psychosocial harmWhy overcomplicating safety processes can create confusion and reduce effectivenessHow asking better questions can lead to stronger and more practical risk management decisionsThis episode is a useful reminder that effective risk management is not about adding more steps or more paperwork. It is about understanding the context, choosing controls with intent, and making sure they actually work in practice. Alanna and Amy encourage listeners to look beyond the language of compliance and focus on designing good work, asking sharper questions, and building safety into decisions from the beginning. For safety professionals, this conversation offers a more thoughtful and practical approach to managing risk in real-world settings.Stay connected with Women in SafetyWebsitewww.womeninsafety.netVisit the website for upcoming events, programs, and community updates, and subscribe to the newsletter to stay informed throughout the year.Instagramwww.instagram.com/womeninsafetyFollow along for conversations, community highlights, and insights from women across the health and safety profession.Become an Empowered Memberwww.womeninsafety.net/empoweredmembersExplore Empowered Membership to access deeper learning opportunities, exclusive events, and meaningful connection within the Women in Safety community.