JSA form – OSHA

Focus on jobs with high injury rates, newly established procedures, or tasks with previous accidents. Also prioritize non-routine operations, complex procedures requiring precise steps, and jobs where one mistake could lead to serious injury. Your most hazardous operations should always have a completed JSA form for reference and training.

While often used interchangeably, a Job Safety Analysis (JSA) typically focuses on the safety procedures for each job step, while a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) emphasizes identifying specific hazards. However, OSHA generally refers to the process as JHA in their guidelines. Our template incorporates both aspects to ensure comprehensive safety documentation that satisfies OSHA requirements.

Focus on specific, actionable measures that eliminate or minimize each identified hazard. Start with engineering controls (physical changes), then administrative controls (procedures/training), and finally PPE as a last resort. Avoid vague directions like “be careful”; instead, provide clear instructions like “maintain three points of contact when climbing the ladder.”

Review the completed JSA with new employees before they perform the task, explaining each step, associated hazards, and required safety measures. Have them observe an experienced worker performing the task according to the JSA, then supervise them as they practice. Use the JSA as a reference during follow-up evaluations to make sure they’re following safe procedures.