What it means
A hazard assessment walks through a job or area and lists what could cause harm: falling objects, energy sources, moving equipment, chemicals, heat, noise, tight spaces and more.
For each hazard, it records how to control it. The usual order of thought is to remove the hazard, then separate people from it, then change how the work is done, and use PPE as the last layer.
Some rules require a written assessment for specific things. For PPE, check OSHA 29 CFR 1910.132 for the current requirement. A hazard assessment should be redone when the task, crew or conditions change.
Why it matters
Hazards you haven't named are hazards the crew hasn't planned for. An assessment gets the lead and the crew looking at the same list before the work starts.
What it looks like on a site
- Before a new task, the foreman walks the area with the crew and lists what could go wrong.
- Each hazard gets a control, a person responsible and a check.
- The crew signs the plan, and anyone who joins mid-shift is briefed.
- If conditions change, like weather or a neighboring trade, the crew stops and updates it.
- Completed assessments are kept with the job record.
This is general information, not legal advice. Check the current rule and your own procedures. Back to the glossary