Hazard Identification and Risk Control

Date: 2026-01-23

Duration: [DURATION] minutes

Presenter: [PRESENTER NAME]

Location: [LOCATION]

Objective

To understand the importance of identifying hazards and implementing effective control measures to prevent workplace incidents.

Introduction

Hazard identification and risk control are fundamental to maintaining a safe and healthy work environment. This toolbox talk will cover key aspects of recognizing hazards and implementing controls.

Hazard Identification

Identifying potential hazards before beginning work is crucial for preventing accidents and injuries. [2]

• Electrical Hazards: Electric shock, burns, falls, and electrocution can result from contact with electrical energy. [3]
• Fire Hazards: Fires can lead to burns, smoke inhalation, and fatalities. [4]
• Slips, Trips, and Falls: These can cause sprains, fractures, and other injuries.
• Improper use of tools: Can lead to cuts, lacerations, fractures, or even fatalities if tools are not inspected or used correctly.
• Exposure to Hazardous Substances: Inhalation, ingestion, or dermal absorption of hazardous substances can cause occupational illnesses. [7]

Control Measures

• De-energize electrical circuits.: Before working on electrical circuits, ensure they are de-energized. [3]
• Use lockout/tagout procedures.: Implement lockout devices to prevent circuits from becoming live and tag them to indicate they should not be turned on. [3]
• Ensure proper ventilation.: Use ventilation systems, especially when using paints, solvents, or other flammable materials. [2]
• Maintain good housekeeping.: Keep the worksite clean and organized to prevent slips, trips, and falls. [1]
• Use tools correctly and inspect them regularly.: Ensure tools are in good condition and used for their intended purposes.
• Provide and use appropriate PPE.: Ensure workers use the correct respiratory masks, gloves, and other protective equipment to prevent exposure to hazardous substances. [7]

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

• Safety Glasses: Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris or splashes. [5]
• Gloves: Wear appropriate gloves to protect your hands from cuts, abrasions, and chemical exposure.
• Respiratory Masks: Use the correct type of respiratory mask and cartridges or filters for the specific hazard. [7]

Real-World Example or Case Study

Consider a scenario where a worker failed to inspect an extension cord before use and received an electrical shock due to damaged insulation. This highlights the importance of inspecting equipment before use and using Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs). [6]

Emergency Procedures

1. In case of fire, activate the fire alarm and evacuate the area immediately.
2. For electrical incidents, shut off the power source if safe to do so and call for emergency assistance.
3. In the event of an injury, provide first aid and seek medical attention. [1]

Questions and Answers

• Q: What should you do if you identify a new hazard on the job site?

A: Report it to your supervisor immediately so that appropriate control measures can be implemented.

• Q: Why is it important to use the correct PPE?

A: Using the correct PPE provides a barrier between you and potential hazards, preventing injuries and illnesses. [7]

Summary

Recap of main points:

• Hazard identification and risk control are essential for workplace safety.
• Report all identified hazards to your supervisor.
• Always use the appropriate control measures and PPE.
• Participate in safety discussions and training to improve hazard awareness.

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.

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