Hazard identification checklist

Assess risk by considering both the potential severity of harm and the likelihood of occurrence. For “Major” risks, the hazard could cause death or permanent disability. “Serious” risks might cause significant injuries requiring medical attention. “Minor” risks typically result in minimal harm requiring basic first aid. Consider frequency of exposure and existing controls when making your assessment. Trust your experience but consult safety standards when uncertain.

Create a supportive reporting culture by visibly acting on hazards identified through this checklist. Share success stories of problems fixed and accidents prevented. Make the reporting process simple and accessible to all workers. Never discipline employees for reporting hazards, even if they were partially responsible for creating them. You can implement a recognition program for employees who identify significant safety issues.

Capture clear images showing both the specific hazard and its surrounding context. Take one wide-angle shot showing where the hazard is located relative to the workspace, then a close-up showing the specific problem. Include reference objects for scale when appropriate. Ensure adequate lighting and focus. If the hazard involves movement or process, take multiple photos or short video to fully document the risk.

Provide specific, actionable recommendations . Include who should take action, what specifically needs to be done, and suggested timeframes. Reference applicable safety standards or regulations when relevant. Note any temporary controls implemented during inspection. If similar hazards have caused incidents previously, mention this to emphasize importance. This creates a clear roadmap for remediation rather than just identifying problems.