Identify Hazards & Manage Risk

Prevent Harm Before it Happens by Having a Proactive Approach

Managing workplace hazards might sound complex, but it’s really about being observant, asking questions, and making thoughtful changes. By regularly identifying and managing hazards, you’re building a culture where people feel protected, valued, and able to do their best work.

What is the Difference Between a Hazard and a Risk?

A hazard is anything that could cause physical or psychological injury, illness, or property damage. Risk is the chance that someone will be harmed by the hazard. You can reduce the risk by controlling the hazards.

What Can Create Hazards in the Workplace? 

Hazards can stem from how work is done, the tools used, or the environment itself. They might come from:

• Inadequate training or supervision
• Poor equipment maintenance or cluttered spaces
• Harmful substances or infectious agents
• Fatigue, stress, or emotional strain
• Unclear expectations or toxic behaviours
• External events like severe weather or emergencies

Even everyday tasks can become hazardous if conditions aren’t right so staying alert is key.

How to Spot Hazards Before They Cause Harm

You don’t need a checklist to start identifying hazards and risks, just pay attention and stay curious. Try:

• Watching how work is done; are there any shortcuts being taken or warning signs?
• Asking your team what feels risky, frustrating, or unclear
• Doing regular walkthroughs or simple hazard assessments
• Checking in on psychological safety, not just physical safety

The goal isn’t perfection; it’s progress. The more often you get curious, the easier it becomes to prevent harm.

How to Manage Risk in 4 Steps

Pro Tip: The higher the risk rating, the sooner it should be addressed. Use the risk rating to decide what to tackle first. (See Table 2)

Step 2: Control the Risk

Now take steps to reduce or eliminate the hazard. Use the Hierarchy of Controls as your guide to reasonably implement the most effective controls first (See Figure 1):

1. Elimination: remove the hazard completely
2. Substitution: replace the hazard with safer processes or products
3. Engineering controls: modify equipment or processes before they come in contact with the worker
4. Administrative controls: develop procedures or ways of work that minimize hazards
5. Protective personal equipment (PPE): minimize hazards at the worker level

Step 3: Train and Communicate

Make sure everyone knows what to watch for and what to do. This includes:

• Training workers and supervisors
• Writing and sharing Safe Work Procedures (SWP)
• Building a culture of open communication around safety

Step 4: Monitor and Update

Check in regularly to make sure your controls are still working. Replace what’s no longer effective and keep the conversation going. Risk management isn’t a one-time fix.

More Information and Resources

Customizable Templates

• Hazard ID, Risk Assessment and Control Policy Template (go2HR)
• Health & Safety Program Manual Template (go2HR)
• Risk Assessment Tool for Ski Areas (go2HR)
• Risk Assessment Tool for Accommodation (go2HR)
• Risk Assessment Tool for Heli & Cat Skiing (go2HR)

Additional Information

• Sample Risk Assessment Form (CCOHS)
• Managing Risk (WorkSafeBC)
• Psychological Health and Safety: A Framework for Success (WorkSafeBC)

Online Courses

• OHS Program Fundamentals: Module 2: Hazard ID & Control (go2HR)
• Mental Health Training for Supervisors & Managers: Identifying Hazards and Mitigating Risk (People Working Well)
• Mental Health Training for Workers: Identifying Hazards and Mitigating Risk (People Working Well)

Webinar Recordings

• The Good, the Bad, and the Hazardous – Let’s Talk Identification and Assessment (CCOHS)
• Beyond the Assessment – Psychological Safety, Risk, and Control (CCOHS)

Need Help?

We’re here to support you at any stage of the process. Contact us for guidance, templates, or one-on-one support tailored to your business.