Risk Assessment & Hazard Control Flashcards

What is the primary purpose of a risk assessment?

Answer: To identify hazards and evaluate risks

The primary purpose of a risk assessment is to systematically identify potential hazards in the workplace and then evaluate the associated risks. This process helps determine the likelihood and severity of harm, allowing organizations to prioritize and implement effective control measures to mitigate those risks.

Which step comes first in hazard control?

Answer: Elimination or substitution

In the hierarchy of controls, elimination or substitution is the first and most effective step in hazard control. Elimination involves physically removing the hazard, while substitution replaces the hazardous material or process with a less dangerous one, thereby preventing exposure at its source.

What is the hierarchy of controls?

Answer: Ranking controls by effectiveness

The hierarchy of controls is a systematic approach to ranking hazard control methods based on their effectiveness in reducing or eliminating risks. It prioritizes controls from most effective (elimination, substitution) to least effective (PPE), guiding organizations to implement the strongest possible protective measures.

What is an engineering control?

Answer: Physical modifications for safety

An engineering control involves making physical modifications to the workplace, equipment, or process to reduce or eliminate hazards. Examples include installing machine guards, ventilation systems, or ergonomic workstations, which are highly effective as they control the hazard at the source rather than relying on worker behavior.

What is the role of personal protective equipment (PPE)?

Answer: To protect workers when hazards remain

The role of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is to protect workers when hazards cannot be entirely eliminated or controlled through engineering or administrative measures. PPE acts as a last line of defense, minimizing exposure to risks by providing a barrier between the worker and the hazard, such as safety glasses, gloves, or respirators.

Why is hazard communication important?

Answer: To inform workers about hazards

Hazard communication is important to inform workers about the chemical hazards they may encounter in the workplace and how to protect themselves. This includes providing access to safety data sheets, proper labeling, and training on safe handling procedures, empowering employees to work safely and respond appropriately to chemical exposures.

Which document lists chemical hazards and precautions?

Answer: Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), now commonly referred to as Safety Data Sheets (SDS), are documents that list detailed information about chemical hazards and necessary precautions. They provide critical data on chemical properties, health effects, safe handling, storage, emergency procedures, and first aid, ensuring workers can safely manage hazardous substances.

Why is regular hazard assessment necessary?

Answer: To identify and manage hazards

Regular hazard assessment is crucial for proactively identifying potential dangers in the workplace before they lead to incidents. By systematically evaluating risks, organizations can implement effective control measures to prevent injuries, illnesses, and property damage. This process ensures a safer working environment and compliance with safety regulations.

What is a key element of effective hazard control?

Answer: Using multiple controls and monitoring

Effective hazard control involves implementing a hierarchy of controls, which often means using a combination of engineering, administrative, and personal protective equipment (PPE) measures. Simply applying one control may not be sufficient. Continuous monitoring is also essential to ensure these controls remain effective over time and to identify any new or evolving hazards.