Hazard Identification Techniques

Question 1

How may hazards be identified?

Answer 1

Observation
Task Analysis
Checklists
Incidents & Near Misses
Failure Tracing Techniques

Question 2

What is the purpose of ‘Observation’ of a task?

Answer 2

Actual & Potential Hazards by observation & questioning

Less obvious hazards such as health dangers from fumes, gases, noise & lighting etc.

Behavioral aspects - Rules and precautions for controlling any hazard or risk should be supplied by the operator, supervisor or a specialist but are they being followed?

Question 3

What is the purpose of task analysis?

Answer 3

Task Analysis is used to analyse all aspects of a task, often with the intention of improving efficiency.

The assessor divides the task into a number of steps, considering each step separately.

Safe working methods, working instructions, worker protection, safety rules, emergency procedures, serviceability of machinery and plant.

Reporting of hazards, provision of information

Layout of work areas

Question 4

What is the purpose of checklists?

Answer 4

To ensure a consistent and comprehensive approach to checking all safety elements are covered during an inspection; a checklist or inspection form is usually developed which covers the key issues.

The HSE have promoted the following “4 P’s” structure to cover the four areas concerned with work activities and risk creation.

PREMISES
Access/Escape
Housekeeping
Working Environment

PLANT & SUBSTANCES
Machinery Guarding
Local Exhaust Ventilation
Use/Storage/separation of materials/chemicals

PROCEDURES
Permits to work
Use of PPE
Procedures followed

PEOPLE
Health Surveillance
People’s behavior
Appropriate authorized person