Understanding the distinction between hazards and risks is fundamental to effective workplace safety. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they represent two very different concepts. Recognising the difference is essential for identifying threats, assessing their impact, and implementing control measures to safeguard workers and comply with health and safety laws, such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA).
1. Defining Hazards and Risks
What is a Hazard?
A hazard is anything that has the potential to cause harm. Hazards can be physical, chemical, biological, environmental, or psychosocial. Identifying hazards is the first step in managing workplace safety.
Examples of Hazards:
- Physical Hazards: Slippery floors, working at height, sharp tools, or moving vehicles.
- Chemical Hazards: Exposure to toxic substances, solvents, fumes, or dust.
- Biological Hazards: Exposure to bacteria, viruses, or mould in certain workplaces.
- Environmental Hazards: Extreme heat, cold, or weather conditions on outdoor worksites.
- Psychosocial Hazards: Workplace stress, bullying, harassment, or excessive workload.
Key Point: Hazards are the “source” of harm in a workplace.
What is a Risk?
A risk is the chance, or likelihood, that a hazard will cause harm, along with the potential severity of that harm. Risks are not inherent; they depend on factors like exposure level, task duration, and the effectiveness of controls in place.
Factors That Influence Risk:
- The type of hazard: Physical hazards may have immediate effects, while chemical hazards might cause long-term illnesses.
- Exposure level: How often and for how long workers are exposed to a hazard.
- The effectiveness of control measures: Proper PPE, procedures, or safety systems can reduce risk.
Key Point: Risks are the “likelihood” and “impact” of harm occurring.
2. Why Understanding the Difference is Important
Recognising the distinction between hazards and risks enables businesses to implement better safety systems and comply with regulatory requirements, like HSWA and ISO 45001. This understanding also fosters a proactive approach to managing workplace safety.
Key Benefits:
- Improved hazard identification and management.
- More accurate risk assessments and prioritisation of controls.
- Reduced incidents, injuries, and associated costs.
- Increased worker confidence in the workplace safety system.
3. Practical Steps for Identifying and Managing Hazards and Risks
Step 1: Identify Hazards
Conduct thorough workplace inspections and consult workers to identify all potential hazards.
- Perform regular site walkthroughs and audits.
- Encourage workers to report hazards they encounter.
- Review incident reports, near misses, and past injuries for trends.
Step 2: Assess Risks
Evaluate the likelihood and potential severity of harm resulting from each identified hazard. Use a risk matrix to categorise risks as low, medium, or high.
Example Risk Matrix:
- Low Risk: Minimal likelihood of harm, e.g., minor cuts from a paper edge.
- Medium Risk: Likely harm but manageable with controls, e.g., slips and falls on wet floors.
- High Risk: Severe injury or fatality is likely, e.g., working at height without guardrails.
Step 3: Implement Control Measures
Use the hierarchy of controls to manage risks effectively:
- Elimination: Remove the hazard completely (e.g., replace hazardous chemicals with safer alternatives).
- Substitution: Replace high-risk activities or materials with safer options.
- Engineering Controls: Use physical solutions like guardrails, ventilation, or machine guarding.
- Administrative Controls: Implement safe work procedures, signage, and training.
- PPE (Personal Protective Equipment): Use safety gear like helmets, gloves, or goggles as a last line of defence.
Step 4: Monitor and Review
Regularly review control measures to ensure their effectiveness. Update risk assessments whenever conditions change, such as new equipment, processes, or incidents.
4. Examples to Illustrate the Difference
Example 1:
Hazard: A worker operating a circular saw without a safety guard.
Risk: The worker could suffer a severe hand injury if the blade comes into contact with their hand.
Control: Install a safety guard, train workers on safe operation, and require PPE such as gloves and safety glasses.
Example 2:
Hazard: Wet floors after cleaning.
Risk: Workers slipping and injuring themselves.
Control: Display warning signs, ensure proper drainage, and use slip-resistant footwear.
