What is the first step in performing a job hazard analysis?

• A. Focus on the relationship between worker, task, tools, and environment
• B. After hazards identified, take steps to eliminate or reduce them to acceptable risk
• C. Identify hazards before they occur
• D. Determine PPE needs after task

Answer: (C)

Identifying hazards before they occur is the first step in a job hazard analysis. By looking at each step of the job and asking what could go wrong before the task is performed, you proactively surface potential injuries or exposures. This early identification sets the stage for evaluating risk and deciding on appropriate controls, training, and safeguards. Once hazards are identified, you can then analyze how the worker, the task, the tools, and the environment interact to create risk, determine which hazards are most significant, and plan how to eliminate or reduce those risks. PPE decisions and other controls come after you’ve mapped out and understood the hazards.