Hazard Assessment/Determination

To prevent or reduce the risk of workplace injury and/or exposures, a hazard assessment or determination must be performed based upon job title, function, and the procedures performed. The entire relationship between the worker, the work, the environment where work is being performed, and the tools being used should be taken into consideration. In 2020, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) stated that to identify and assess hazards, employers and workers should:

• Collect and review information about workplace hazards.
• Inspect the workplace for and identify new or recurring hazards.
• Characterize the nature of identified hazards and determine strategies for prevention, mitigation, and control.

Once hazards and the types of incidents that could result from worker exposure to hazards are identified, prevention and control strategies can be developed.

Snapshot Example of Exposure/Hazard Determination

Dental Assistant:      

Nursing Assistant: