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706 Conducting a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA)
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706 Conducting a Job Hazard Analysis

The Format

When writing a Safe Job Procedure (SJP), it is important to use a step-by-step format.

Manager checking to see if the written SJP safe job procedure is accurate.
A good SJP paints a word picture.

Each step should be written in a separate paragraph. This makes it easier for workers to understand exactly what they need to do and how to do it safely.

The manager must check the written SJP to make sure it is accurate and matches the actual work process. This means observing the job being done and comparing it to the written steps. If the written steps do not match the real process, the SJP must be corrected.

A good SJP paints a clear word picture. Each paragraph should explain one single action. For example, a step might say: "Grasp the breaker switch and move it from the on to the off position (down)." This is a clear action that shows exactly what the worker needs to do.

If the action includes a hazard, the paragraph must include four parts:

  1. Describe the action: What the worker needs to do.
  2. Identify the hazard: What could go wrong during that action.
  3. Describe the possible injury: What kind of injury the hazard could cause.
  4. Identify the safety precaution: What the worker must do to stay safe.

Here is an example of a complete step that includes all four parts:

"Grasp the breaker switch and move it from the on to the off position (down). To prevent a possible serious burn injury if an arc flash occurs, be sure you turn your head and look away as you flip the breaker switch."

In this example:

  • The action is moving the breaker switch to the off position.
  • The hazard is an arc flash that can happen when switching off the breaker.
  • The injury could be a serious burn from the arc flash.
  • The safety precaution is turning your head and looking away to avoid direct exposure.

Every step that involves a hazard must follow this format to make the procedure clear and safe for the worker. Always be specific, use simple words, and focus on one action per paragraph.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

5-2. If a step includes exposure to a hazard, then there must be four parts to the written step. Which one of the following is one of those parts?

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