Ecological power refers to control over which elements?

• A. The physical environment, technology, or organization of work
• B. Control over information
• C. The post-incident analysis process
• D. The ability to delegate tasks

Answer: (A)

Ecological power is the ability to shape the conditions in which work happens. It means you influence the work environment itself—what the space is like, what tools and technology are available, and how tasks are organized and coordinated. By controlling these elements, you reduce hazards and improve safety and efficiency at the source, rather than relying on workers to adapt after the fact. Examples include arranging the physical workspace to minimize trips and exposures, selecting safer equipment and technology, improving lighting and ventilation, and establishing clear procedures and workflows. This is different from control over information, post-incident analysis, or simply delegating tasks, as those relate to who has access to data, how events are reviewed after they occur, or who assigns duties, rather than altering the environment and work organization itself.