706 Conducting a Job Hazard Analysis

Improve the JHA Process

Introduction

Continuous Improvement and Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs)

The continuous improvement process means always looking for ways to make the workplace safer. When used with Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs), it helps identify new hazards, update safety procedures, and improve how jobs are done over time.

JHAs must not be treated as one-time tasks. Workplaces change, and new hazards can appear. By reviewing and updating JHAs regularly, employers and employees can find better ways to reduce risks. This process includes checking if current safety measures are working, talking with workers about changes, and learning from near-misses or accidents.

It is particularly important to review your job hazard analysis if an illness or injury occurs on a specific job. Based on the circumstances, you may determine that you need to change the job procedure to prevent similar incidents in the future. If an employee's failure to follow proper job procedures results in a "close call," discuss the situation with all employees who perform the job and remind them of proper procedures.

• It may also be possible that the problem is with the procedure. Maybe it needs to be changed. Talk with employees about their reasons for the apparent unsafe behavior. You might be surprised to learn they have been "trapped" into doing the task that way.
• On the other hand, discipline may be appropriate if the safety management system has not failed the employee (the employer is meeting all safety obligations).

Any time you revise a job hazard analysis, it is important to train all employees affected by the changes in the new job methods, procedures, or protective measures adopted.

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