Hazard Identification and Control

One of the primary causes of workplace injuries and illnesses is failing to identify or recognize hazards that are in the workplace. To identify hazards, employers should conduct a hazard assessment:

• Pre-use Analysis. Evaluate new equipment, materials, operations, facilities, chemicals and processes that may create potential hazards prior to employee use.
• Comprehensive Surveys. Identify potential safety and health hazards at the worksite.
• Self-inspections. Conduct safety and health inspections to identify hazards and corrective measures; track them to completion.
• Job Hazard Analysis (JHA). Conduct a JHA on job activities and processes to determine safe work procedures and controls.
• Employee Notification of Hazards. Ensure employees know the method to notify management of unsafe conditions and/or practices and how management will notify the employees of unsafe conditions and/or practices.
• Accident Investigations. Conduct accident investigations including root cause analysis to identify and correct the hazard.
• Medical Services and First Aid. Ensure employees know the procedures for receiving medical services and care.

• Safety and Health Rules. Establish worksite rules, safe work practices and disciplinary process.
• Personal Protective Equipment. Ensure the appropriate PPE is provided and used by employees based on the worksite hazards and tasks be conducted.
• Emergency Preparedness and Response. Provide for emergency planning, preparedness and response based on the hazards at the worksite including emergency or evacuation drills.
• Preventive Maintenance. Ensure that a preventive maintenance program has been established and is followed.