The hierarchy of controls provides a visual guide to the effectiveness of the various workplace controls set in place to eliminate or reduce exposure to occupational hazards, including noise or ototoxic chemicals. The hierarchy includes the following from most effective to least effective:

- Elimination: complete removal of the hazard

- Substitution: replacement the offers a smaller risk

- Engineering controls: physical changes to reduce exposure

- Administrative controls: changes in work procedures or training

- Personal protective equipment (PPE): individual equipment to reduce exposure, e.g. earplugs

Engineering controls is the highest in the hierarchy of risk reduction methods when elimination of the hazard is not possible. These types of controls typically involve making changes in equipment or other changes to minimize the level of noise that reaches a worker's ear. They may also involve measures such as barriers between the worker and the source of the noise, mufflers, regular maintenance of the machinery, or substituting quieter equipment. Examples of noise control strategies adopted in the workplace can be seen among the winners of the Safe-in-Sound Excellence in Hearing Loss Prevention Awards.