The Importance of Hazard Identification
In our last blog we started to introduce some key terms, relevant to the risk assessment process. The identification of hazards is crucial to successful assessment of risk. If the assessors don’t know what the hazards are or they fail to identify them, then suitable and sufficient control measures maybe missed. The HSE website details many prosecution cases where failure to identify hazards has been the contributory causal factor to an accident, an example of this is the recent prosecution of a playground inspector.
How to Identify Hazards
In order to facilitate the process of hazard identification, we recommend at least two competent risk assessors are involved in the process. A combination of someone very familiar with the work process alongside someone who is not routinely involved in the activity can work well. The task should be observed as and when it is happening and where relevant across different times within a shift. It is important to liaise with the individuals carrying out the task and ask for their input in the hazard identification process. If the risk assessors are trained, having a go at carrying out the task themselves can help them appreciated the hazards that individuals maybe exposed to.
Utilising Information Available to Identify Hazards
A hazard prompt form can also be beneficial in helping risk assessors to identify hazards, this would include a list of hazards that maybe associated with the broad range of tasks being carried out in the workplace. It is however, important to recognise that the list will never be exhaustive and that additional hazards outside of the scope of the prompt may be present. Manufacturers equipment or machinery manuals may also be a good source of information in relation to potential hazards. Data in the form of near misses or past accidents can also highlight any current hazards. It is also important that businesses keep up with industry data such as accidents, changes in relevant legislation or codes of practice as this may also highlight additional hazards. The HSE website is a valuable source for this type of information.
