What is a Hazard?

 What is a Hazard?

A hazard is anything that has the potential to cause harm — to people, property, the environment, or processes. Hazards exist everywhere: at home, at work, outdoors, and in any system or operation.

A simple way to remember is:

> Hazard = potential source of harm or adverse effect.

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🔶 Examples of Hazards:

Physical hazards: Moving machinery, sharp knives, hot surfaces, noise, radiation.

Chemical hazards: Acids, solvents, flammable liquids, toxic gases.

Biological hazards: Bacteria, viruses, molds, parasites.

Ergonomic hazards: Poor workstation design, repetitive movements, awkward postures.

Psychosocial hazards: Stress, workplace harassment, excessive workload.

Electrical hazards: Exposed wires, overloaded circuits.

Environmental hazards: Extreme weather, earthquakes, floods.

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🔵 Hazard vs. Risk

These two terms are often confused:

Hazard: The source of potential harm (e.g., a wet floor).

Risk: The chance (likelihood) that the hazard will actually cause harm, and how severe that harm would be (e.g., slipping on the wet floor and injuring yourself).

A hazard exists whether or not someone is exposed to it. But risk considers exposure and control measures.

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🔶 Why is Hazard Identification Important?

To prevent accidents, injuries, or illnesses.

To comply with laws and safety standards.

To protect the environment.

To improve efficiency and reduce costs by avoiding downtime or damage.

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🔷 Hazard Management Process

1️⃣ Identify hazards → Look for anything with potential to cause harm.

2️⃣ Assess the risk → Evaluate likelihood and severity.

3️⃣ Control the hazard → Eliminate or reduce the hazard by implementing controls.

4️⃣ Monitor & review → Ensure controls remain effective and improve them if needed.

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✅ In summary: A hazard is the potential for harm, and recognizing hazards is the first critical step in keeping people and environments safe