The Actor and the Action
Each step in the procedure describes what the worker (actor) does (action).
Let's look at each of these two components:
- Actor: The actor is an individual or object that directly participates or assists in the procedure. The actor initiates a change by performing or NOT performing a particular action in a step. In most JHAs the actor need not be identified unless two or more workers are performing the task.
- Action: An action is "the something" that is done by an actor. Actions may or may not be observable. An action may describe a behavior that is accomplished or not accomplished. NOT performing an action should be thought of as just as important as performing an action when developing a step.
It's important to understand that when describing a step in writing, first identify the actor (if two or more workers are involved in the step) and then tell what the actor is supposed to do. For instance, take a look at the step below:
- "Maintenance team leader: Attach the lockout device to the hasp."
In this example, the actor is identified because a team of maintenance workers is performing the task. The actor (Maintenance team leader) is identified first and then the action (attach) is described.
Also note that the statement is written in active tense. You would not state the step in passive tense. See the example of passive tense below:
- "The lockout device is to be placed on the hasp by the maintenance team leader."
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-2. Within the JHA, which term describes an individual or object that directly participates or assists in the procedure?
You forgot to answer the question!