Understanding the nature and scope of workplace hazards is the first step towards prevention. Although most risks can be identified and mitigated, nearly half of construction zone hazards can go undetected, posing significant risks to workplace safety.
Two Types of Hazards
Recognized hazards are reasonably predictable and can lead to potential harm if not prevented. They encompass environmental and operational dangers, ranging from chemical exposure, wildlife, and wet surfaces to improperly stacked boxes, noisy machinery, and inadequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Employees should assess and note recognized hazards in their Job Safety Analysis (JSA) form before entering the work site.
Unrecognized hazards are found during the job and can be unpredictable. These can include overhead power lines not associated with the work site, moving/standing water after storms, machinery pinch points, and Slips, Trips, and Falls. Since unrecognized hazards cannot be monitored until discovered, employees should stop work and only proceed once the hazard is properly addressed.
Preventing and Mitigating Workplace Injuries
Employees may become complacent on the job site and rush safety measures to finish work quickly, leading to improperly filled-out JSA forms with inaccurate or missing steps on mitigating dangers.
To prevent avoidable accidents, review and list all hazards in your JSA form, and refer to the Hierarchy of Controls to assess, mitigate, or eliminate risks. A comprehensive safety system should include the five major points:
- Elimination: If possible, remove hazards from the workplace, such as properly disposing of a sharp object or toxic chemical.
- Substitution: Replace work process with a safer procedure. This will not remove potential danger but can mitigate risks. Assess any new hazards that may occur.
- Engineering Controls: Implement workplace modifications, including updated machinery to create a safety barrier between workers and hazards.
- Administrative Controls: Introduce safety protocols, training, and proper breaks throughout the day.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Hard hats, gloves, goggles, and safety vests serve as the last line of defense against hazards that cannot be eliminated or mitigated.