August Mack's Monthly Newsletter

It is important to recognize workplace hazards and how to keep employees safe. This can be done through job hazard analysis which identifies hazards before they result in an injury or illness. A hazard is activity or condition in the workplace if not controlled, can result in injury or illness. Job hazard analysis is a technique focusing on job tasks to identify hazards before injuries or illness can occur. Once hazards have been identified, steps can be taken to eliminate or reduce the risk level.

The value of a job hazard analysis allows facilities to use the findings to eliminate and prevent hazards in the workplace. The result is decreased worker injuries, illnesses and workers compensation costs as well as increased worker productivity. For a job hazard analysis to be effective, management must demonstrate a commitment to safety and correct uncontrolled problems.

To start a job hazard analysis, priority should be given to the following:

Jobs with the highest injury or illness rates
Jobs with potential to cause severe or disabling injuries or illnesses
Jobs with processes and procedures having underwent changes

Once the jobs or tasks have prioritized, the first step is to involve the employees. This provides the greatest chance for success. Discuss with employees any hazards they know are around the workplace. The solutions will not just be management’s plan, but an equally created and owned plan. Part of the process entails reviewing your employees’ history of accidents and occupational illnesses that needed treatment.

Because every job can be broken down into tasks or steps, the analysis will focus on watching the employee perform his/her job. Take enough notes to describe each job, but avoid going into minute details not relevant to the end result. Once the job review is complete, review the findings with the employee. In essence, a job hazard analysis is an exercise in detective work:

What are the consequences?
What issues could arise?
Are there any contributing outside factors?
What are the chances a hazard will occur?

To make a job hazard analysis useful, document the answers to these questions in a consistent and reliable manner. Then, take action to ensure employee safety.

Matthew Gerner is a former August Mack Environmental, Inc. employee.