Explain how hazard is identified and controlled under back drop of Osha’s action plan?

OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, outlines a comprehensive action plan for identifying and controlling hazards in the workplace. The process typically involves several key steps:

1. Hazard Identification:

   • OSHA encourages employers to conduct regular workplace inspections to identify potential hazards. This includes examining equipment, processes, materials, and the work environment for any factors that could pose a risk to workers' health and safety.
   • Employers should also involve workers in the hazard identification process since they often have firsthand knowledge of potential hazards in their respective roles.

2. Hazard Assessment:

   • Once hazards are identified, employers must assess their severity and likelihood of causing harm. This involves evaluating factors such as the frequency of exposure, potential consequences of exposure, and the number of workers affected.
   • Hazard assessment may also involve using tools such as risk matrices or job safety analyses to prioritize hazards based on their level of risk.

3. Hazard Control:

   • After identifying and assessing hazards, OSHA's action plan emphasizes implementing controls to mitigate or eliminate risks. This can include engineering controls (e.g., machine guards, ventilation systems), administrative controls (e.g., training programs, work procedures), and personal protective equipment (e.g., gloves, goggles).
   • Employers are encouraged to implement a hierarchy of controls, starting with the most effective measures (e.g., elimination or substitution of hazards) and progressing to less effective measures (e.g., administrative or PPE controls) as necessary.

4. Review and Monitoring:

   • OSHA emphasizes the importance of regularly reviewing and monitoring hazard controls to ensure their effectiveness. This involves evaluating whether controls are being implemented as intended, assessing their impact on reducing risk, and making adjustments as needed.
   • Employers should also monitor workplace conditions, conduct periodic inspections, and solicit feedback from workers to identify any new or emerging hazards.

Overall, OSHA's action plan provides a structured approach for identifying and controlling hazards in the workplace, with the ultimate goal of ensuring the health and safety of workers. By following this plan, employers can create safer work environments and reduce the risk of occupational injuries and illnesses.