UNDERSTAND THE CONCEPT
A hazard is something with the potential to cause harm. Risk considers the likelihood and consequences of that harm in a particular situation. Naming a hazard is therefore only the beginning of a useful assessment. The same equipment can present different risks during normal production, maintenance, cleaning, or an unexpected interruption. Exposure, affected people, and the reliability of controls all matter.
For an enterprise team, this distinction improves the quality of reports. A record that only says 'machinery' gives reviewers little context. A useful record identifies the equipment, activity, people potentially affected, and observed concern without inventing a numerical certainty. Qualified personnel use the site's approved assessment process to decide controls and priorities. A dashboard rating supports that review; it does not establish that work is safe or authorize anyone to proceed.
Questions to take back to your team
- Does the record identify the source of harm rather than only a possible injury?
- Which activity and people does this assessment cover?
- Who is qualified to review the assumptions and controls?
Awareness guide only. Follow applicable requirements, qualified review and your site’s approved procedures. Reading this page does not authorize work or certify competence.
Further reading
Explore the primary references below. Requirements and applicability depend on your organization and jurisdiction.
