A job hazard analysis, task hazard analysis or a hazard analysis by any other term is a planning tool to identify and address hazards before they occur.
Identify Hazards
- Break down the tasks for the work activity.
- Identify existing and potential hazards associated within those tasks.
- Establish preventative measures.
Preventative Measures
- Can you eliminate the hazard? Example: A road closure to traffic is a method of hazard elimination.
- Can you implement a substitution? Would using a different piece of equipment minimize the hazard? Example: An aerial lift might be safer than using a ladder.
- Is there an engineering control that will work? Examples: Implementing excavation protective systems like a trench box or hydraulic shoring or using wet methods to control silica exposure.
- What administrative controls can you implement?
- Training.
- Developing work procedures.
- Signage.
- What is the correct personal protection equipment for the specific hazard?
Planning
Once you’ve identified the preventative measures, make sure you have the correct tools and equipment available.
- Is a retractable device better suited than a standard 6-foot lanyard for fall protection?
- Do you have the correct ladder type and height?
- Do you need a filter or cartridge respirator?
- Do you need leather, cut-resistant or chemical gloves?
Review
As the project evolves, so does the hazard analysis process. To be effective, revisit and update the initial assessments as needed.
