What is the first step in the 5 step risk assessment process?

The first step in the 5-step risk assessment process is identifying hazards. This foundational step is crucial because it involves recognizing potential sources of harm or adverse effects that could impact personnel, operations, or equipment. By thoroughly identifying hazards, individuals and teams lay the groundwork for understanding what risks they may encounter while performing their duties.

Identifying hazards allows for a comprehensive examination of the environment, tools, and practices that could lead to unsafe situations. Once hazards are identified, the subsequent steps of assessing the risk associated with those hazards, implementing controls, and using risk matrices can be effectively conducted. This ensures that the assessment is accurate and that appropriate mitigation measures can be planned based on the specific dangers identified. Thus, the identification of hazards is the essential starting point in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of operations.