Hazard identification and Reporting

Hazard is the potential source to cause a harm. Similarly, a hazard is a source of potential damage,
harm or a severe health effect on someone or something. Further, the words “Hazard” and “Risk
“are interacted with each other. There are five general groups of hazards as shown in below
Figure.

Biological
(From bacteria,
virus, fungus and
spores) Ergonomical
Chemical
(Manual lifting, postures,
(From welding fumes, repetitive movements,
mineral oils, paints, space, comfort)
silica sand, acids,
alkalis, solvent)

GROUPS OF
HEALTH Psychological
Physical HAZARDS (From menal stress,
(From noise, light, overwork, work pressure,
temperature, heat, long shift hours, night duty,
vibration, radiation) deadlines, cultural shock,
poor communication,
monotonous work)

Figure: Group of Hazards

What is the difference between acute and chronic hazards?

Short-term exposure is called acute exposure. Long-term exposure is called chronic exposure. A
hazard is acute when it's extremely severe, short-term, and dangerous. A chronic hazard, on the
other hand, is one that is present over a long period of time. Chronic hazards are always present,
recurring, or habitual.

What are the steps of identifying workplace hazards?

1: Collect existing information about workplace hazards.
2: Inspect the workplace for safety hazards.
3: Identify health hazards.
4: Conduct incident investigations.
5: Identify hazards associated with emergency and non-routine situations.
6: Characterize the nature of identified hazards, identify interim control measures, and prioritize
the hazards for control.
How to report hazards at your workplace?

Hazards can be reported verbally, electronically or by filling out company specific forms that
should be available at notice boards or other noticeable places. Ask your supervisor, or health and
safety committee or representative if there is a formal process for reporting hazards. If your
supervisor, health and safety committee or representative, and union fail to respond to your hazard
report, you may contact the government department responsible for occupational health and
safety for your region for further guidance. However, before contacting a government department,
trying to resolve concerns internally is encouraged.

The following is an example of a hazard reporting form.

Hazard Report Form - Example

Name: Date:
Location:
Equipment:
Description of the hazard:

Suggested corrective action:

Signature:
Supervisor's remarks:

Corrective action taken:

Signature of Supervisor: Date:

 Other than hazard reporting system, there should be an accident reporting system at
workplaces in where there is a good safety culture.