A valuable part of a health and safety program is an effective method or system of identifying and controlling hazards in the workplace. A workplace hazard can be any activity, condition, or substance that has the potential to harm a worker. Hazards are generally divided into two categories: safety hazards and health hazards.
Tasks that expose workers to a high degree of personal risk require special planning. For these tasks, the Joint Health and Safety Committee, the Health and Safety Representative, management, and affected workers, as applicable, should complete a job or task hazard analysis. The analysis and precautions to control or reduce the hazard must be communicated to workers prior to performing the tasks.
Did You Know?
IHSA offers an Introduction to Hazard & Risk Management eLearning course and a classroom-based Introduction to Hazard & Risk Management course. As well, the topic is covered in some of our other courses, including:
Requirements
Many different hazards may be encountered or created by construction activity. An effective system:
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Monitors the workplace for hazards or potential hazards
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Requires all employees to report hazards
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Implements appropriate controls
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Ensures corrective action is taken.
Many different hazards may be encountered or created by construction activity. Typical major risks that should be addressed include:
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Falls
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Reversing vehicles and equipment
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Working around mobile equipment
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Overhead powerline contact
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Trench collapse
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Electrical hazards
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Working in confined spaces
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Working with toxic materials (e.g., asbestos, lead)
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Manual material handling
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Housekeeping
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Use of power tools.
When developing a hazard analysis program, remember that workers are a valuable source of information about hazards in the workplace. Encourage timely reporting. Document and monitor controls for effectiveness.
Samples
Links to other topics
Links to existing IHSA and MOL material
Caution/Disclaimer
The samples provided are intended to be modified to meet company or site-specific requirements. Without such modifications, they may not be appropriate. Although IHSA believes that the information provided is consistent with the legal requirements and/or good industry practices which prevailed at the time the information was compiled, users of this information are urged to check with current regulations, local/trade practices and the most recent edition of the reference material to ensure that it is still appropriate.
Last Updated: March 12, 2020
Tools & Resources |
Hazard Assessment Analysis Control