Step 2: Analyzing Hazards and Exposure
We can define "process" as a systematic examination and evaluation of data or information, by breaking it into its component parts to uncover their interrelationships.
In the workplace, the process of hazard analysis breaks down job procedures, incidents, and accidents to determine component parts and causes. Two common methods are used to analyze hazards and exposure: the Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) and incident/accident investigation.
Job Hazard Analysis (JHA)
The Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) can be the solution to the weaknesses inherent in the walk-around inspection process by uncovering unsafe work practices and hazardous conditions. It’s better at doing this because sufficient time is given to close analysis of one unique task or procedure at a time.
A typical JHA is accomplished by a team composed of at least one employee and one analyst using a step-by-step process. Below is a brief description of the 7-step JHA process and a sample JHA form.
JHA Steps:
- The employee accomplishes several cycles of the task.
- The analyst observes and takes notes about what's being done and existing and potential hazards.
- After the observation is completed, the analyst divides the task into a sequence of unique steps.
- The team analyzes each step to identify hazardous materials, equipment, tools, and unsafe exposures.
- The team next determines the safety precautions needed to eliminate or mitigate the hazards in each step.
- The team takes the information gathered to write a safe job procedure (SJP) for the entire task.
- The team asks another employee to give the SJP a fresh look by performing the task to ensure the steps are designed to prevent injuries and illnesses.
You can get more information on the JHA process in OSHAcademy course 706 Conducting a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA).
JOB: LOADING PRODUCTS INTO TRAILER
| STEP | HAZARDS & INJURIES | PRECAUTIONS |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Spotter: Spot position of trailer as it nears loading dock. | Spotter could be caught between trailer and dock. | Caution: Stay clear of the rear of the trailer as it is being backed into position. Note: Keep others away from the area. |
| 2. Driver: When trailer is in position, turn engine off, set parking brake, and notify forklift operator. | Driver could be injured if he/she jumps off the truck. | Warning: Never jump off the cab or back of the trailer. |
| 3. Driver: Set chocks. | Driver could strike head on trailer. Driver could trip, slip, fall while in the dock well. |
Warning: Avoid striking the trailer when setting the wheel chocks. Caution: Use handrails and use care when walking on slippery surfaces. |
| SAFE JOB PROCEDURE | ||
Step 1. Spotter: Position the vehicle. Spot the position of the trailer as it nears the loading dock. Make sure the trailer is correctly positioned in the dock well. Warning: It's important to follow these procedures so you don't get caught between the trailer and dock when the trailer is backing up to the dock. Note: Be sure to keep others away from the area. Remove the awareness chain or bar from the front of the dock door once the trailer is properly positioned. Step 2. Driver: When the trailer is in position, verify the vehicle has been turned off, set the parking brake, and notify the forklift operator. Warning: When exiting the truck, never jump. Many drivers are injured jumping from the cab of the truck or back of the trailer. Step 3. Driver: Set the chocks. After exiting the truck, chock the wheels. Warning: Be sure not to strike your head against the truck with setting the chocks. Caution: Be careful when walking on slippery surfaces and use handrails when using ramps or stairs. |
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The Safe Job Procedure (SJP) may then be used as a valuable on-the-job training (OJT) resource. Each JHA should be reviewed at least annually or whenever there is a change in the task that might introduce a new hazard.
You can get more information on the JHA process in OSHAcademy Course 706, Conducting a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA).
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
5-7. What is the next step in the JHA process after identifying the hazards in each step?
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