Hazard Identification in the Workplace

Why hazard identification matters

You cannot control a hazard you have not identified. Hazard identification is the first step of every risk assessment and underpins an effective health and safety management system. The duty to carry out suitable and sufficient risk assessments arises under Regulation 3 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, supported by the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

Approaches to identification

• Walk-through observation — physically inspect the workplace
• Task analysis — break down activities into steps and identify hazards at each
• Review of incident data — learn from accidents, near misses and ill-health reports
• Consultation — involve employees who carry out the work
• Document review — existing risk assessments, COSHH inventory, equipment registers

Common hazard categories

• Physical — machinery, slips, trips, falls, noise, vibration
• Chemical — COSHH, dangerous substances
• Biological — infection, waste
• Ergonomic — manual handling, DSE
• Psychosocial — workload, work-related stress
• Fire and explosion — including DSEAR risks

Recording and review

Hazards should be recorded, linked to risk assessments, and reviewed when activities, equipment or premises change. A hazard register is a practical way to keep track and ensure nothing is missed.

Cited Sources & Official References

• Regulation 3 of the Management Regulations 1999
• Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
• HSE (Health and Safety Executive)

Frequently Asked Questions