Job Hazard Analysis – Using the Hierarchy of Controls
The following comments were adapted from “Job Hazard Analysis” by James Roughton and Nathan Crutchfield. The video provides an overview on use of the Hierarchy of Controls. Review ANSI AIHA Z10-2005, Section 5.1.1 and Appendix G for insights.
Job Hazard Analysis and Hierarchy of Controls
To ensure that proper hazard controls are in place that will minimize the risk of injury or damage, a structured hierarchy of potential controls can be used. Using this “Hierarchy of Controls” provides a tiered approach to evaluating, selecting and/or blending actions designed to reduce or eliminate exposures to hazards. In descending order of effectiveness, the order of control preferences are:
- Avoid or eliminate the hazard(s) from the operation, the job methods, the material, and/or the structure of the facility. If at all possible, avoid the hazard.
- Reduce or Abate the hazard(s) by limiting exposure or reducing its risks by substituting less hazardous materials, methods, etc.
- Control the hazard(s) by redesigning and engineering the hazard(s) out of the process, equipment, materials, etc. The hazard(s) may still exist but mechanisms are in place to contain it.
- Use Warnings to advise and alert personnel to the existence of the hazard(s) – horns, signs, lights, decals, etc. and that designated safety controls are to be used.
- Use Administrative methods - training, meetings, written documentation, communications, orientations, etc. that specify the designated safety controls, protocols, rules, etc. to be followed.
- Utilize Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) only as a last resort to shield employees against hazards. Assure that the PPE is designed for the specifically hazard(s), properly fitted and worn.
The Job Hazard Analysis should make full use of the Hierarchy of Controls to determine the order and combination to consider in establishing hazard controls for each of the steps and tasks of the job. Also see the Haddon Matrix for additional insights on hazard control concepts useful in a Job Hazard Analysis process.
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