4 Steps for Hazard Analysis and Life

Just-in-time manufacturing, combined with lean manufacturing, has created a time crunch for all of us. Time must be maximized and, unfortunately, safety hasn’t had an opportunity to catch up to the same pace as manufacturing. The changes in manufacturing are happening faster than hazard analysis of the machinery required to complete the work.

During a recent high school safety training day that I facilitated, we discussed this concern. We examined how to complete a hazard assessment and, together with some help from Workplace Safety Prevention Services (WSPS), we came up with 4 easy and quick steps to hazard analysis that work for all types of businesses:

1. STOP!
   Before you use anything for the first time, whether it’s taking over a machine, riding a bike or driving a forklift – stop. Do not start anything immediately. If you have started an action and realize you are unsure of what you are doing – STOP. As a reminder, safety laws require you to be trained on any machinery before use.
2. Think/Plan.
   Look over your task; think of ways you could be hurt and ways you could protect yourself. Visualize how the process will look. Remove yourself from the picture and re-assess the situation. Imagine if you had to direct a loved one to your task. What directions would you give them? Ask questions to supervisors if you are in any way unsure. The best way to remember your plan is to write it out.
3. Act.
   After you are confident in your plan, act upon it in a controlled and purposeful way. Take your time to go through your plan and each step.
4. Evaluate.
   While doing the action, keep track of what works and what didn’t work. Make changes or improvements. This can be done at anytime during the process. Evaluate your plan. Evaluation never stops. As the task/job/process changes, so will your evaluation.

Together with the class, we came to the realization that these four steps – Stop, Think/Plan, Act, Evaluate – can be adapted to almost any new task you encounter in life. (One of the students remarked this could be used for their career goals and path.) Remember, you need to stop, think and plan for your life, act upon it, and then constantly evaluate it to ensure you are living your life the way you want it and being safe.

Please share our posts…