When performing a hazard or risk assessment, what is the first step?

The initial step in performing a hazard or risk assessment is to identify the hazard or risk. This is crucial because understanding what hazards exist in a specific environment, task, or process lays the foundation for the entire assessment. By pinpointing potential hazards, you can then move on to evaluate their potential impact, review past incidents to gather historical data, and finally implement appropriate control measures to mitigate those risks.

Identifying the hazard allows for a comprehensive analysis of the situation, determining how these hazards can affect personnel, equipment, and operations. Once hazards are identified, further evaluations and actions can be methodically and effectively planned, ensuring that nothing crucial is overlooked in maintaining safety and health standards.