Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Job Hazard Analysis Occupational Safety and Health Administration

OSHA Publication 3071. Job Hazard Analysis discusses job hazards and job hazard analysis in the workplace. This book is for employers, foreman, and supervisors, but encourages employees to use the information as well to analyze their own jobs and recognize workplace hazards so they can report them. It explains what a job hazard is and offers guidelines to help you conduct your own step-by-step analysis. A hazard is a potential for harm. In practical terms, a hazard often is associated with a condition or activity that, if left uncontrolled, can result in a n injury or illness. Identifying hazards and eliminating or controlling them as early as possible will help prevent injuries and illnesses. A job hazard analysis is a technique that focuses on job tasks as a way to identify hazards before they occur. It focuses on the relationship between the worker, the task, the tools and the work environment. Ideally, after you identify uncontrolled hazards, you will take steps to eliminate them or reduce them to an acceptable risk level.