What is the purpose of a job hazard analysis (JHA)?

The purpose of a job hazard analysis (JHA) is to identify and mitigate risks associated with specific job tasks. This process involves examining the tasks that employees perform to identify potential hazards that could lead to injury or accidents. By understanding these risks, organizations can take proactive steps to implement controls that minimize or eliminate hazards, thereby creating a safer work environment.

This approach is essential for effective safety management as it focuses on tasks rather than just general workplace safety, allowing for tailored solutions that address specific hazards. For instance, if a JHA identifies that a task involves working at heights, the organization can decide to provide fall protection gear and training to reduce the risk of falls.

In contrast, the other options do not capture the essence of what a JHA is intended to accomplish. Randomly selecting safety equipment does not ensure that the specific hazards of a task are addressed. Reporting accidents to authorities is necessary for compliance and accountability but does not prevent hazards from occurring in the first place. Evaluating employee performance is important for organizational effectiveness but is not directly related to hazard identification and risk mitigation. Hence, the JHA’s primary focus is on fostering a safer workplace by systematically analyzing job tasks for potential hazards.