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715 Electrical Safety for Technicians and Supervisors
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2. Evaluate Risks

Evaluation is a judgment call, and it's based on the perceived level of risk of injury.

Evaluating Electrical Risks
risk matrix

Risk is determined by analyzing the probability of an injury occurring and the severity of the injury if it occurs. The greater the probability and higher the severity, the greater the risk.

When evaluating risk, it is best to identify all possible hazards first, then evaluate the risk of injury from each hazard. Do not assume the risk is low until you evaluate the hazard. It is dangerous to overlook hazards.

Job sites are especially dangerous because they are always changing in construction and electrical work. Many people are working at different tasks and job sites are frequently exposed to bad weather. A reasonable place to work on a bright, sunny day might be very hazardous in the rain. The risks in your work environment need to be evaluated all the time. Then, whatever hazards are present need to be controlled.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

4-3. Risk is determined by analyzing which two factors?