When Am I At Risk in the Workplace?

UNDERSTANDING WORKPLACE RISK

When an incident or injury occurs, it is rarely caused by a single issue. In most cases, there are several contributing factors such as poor housekeeping, faulty equipment, lack of training, or unsafe work methods. These risks are often present before the task begins and must be identified early.

PERSONAL RISK FACTORS

Risk is not only created by the environment, it is also influenced by individual behaviour and mindset.

Common contributing factors include:

• Rushing or taking shortcuts
• Fatigue or frustration
• Complacency or inattention
• Inexperience or lack of familiarity with the task

When these factors are present, focus is reduced. This increases the likelihood of:

• Losing balance, control, grip, or traction
• Making poor decisions
• Placing yourself in the line of fire

MANAGING RISK ON SITE

Before starting any task, it is critical to assess the risks involved and determine whether the method of work is safe.

Worker should be encouraged to consider:

• Have the risks been identified?
• Is this the safest way to complete the task?
• Are controls in place to reduce or eliminate the risk?

Taking a moment to stop and assess can prevent serious incidents.

RESPONSIBILITY FOR SAFETY

• Workplace safety is a shared responsibility.
• Employers must provide a safe work environment and safe systems of work
• Workers are responsible for making safe decisions and following procedures
• Individual awareness and decision-making play a critical role in preventing injuries.

HIERARCHY OF CONTROL

When managing risk, controls should be applied in the following order:

• Eliminate the hazard
• Substitute the hazard
• Isolate the hazard
• Use engineering controls
• Use administrative controls
• Use personal protective equipment

These controls should always be considered when planning and performing work.

QUICK QUIZ

1. What factors can contribute to a workplace incident?
2. How can personal behaviour increase risk on site?
3. What should you do before starting any task?
4. What is the first step in the hierarch?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Workplace incidents are usually caused by multiple contributing factors.
• Risk comes from environment, equipment, and individual behaviour.
• Factors like fatigue, rushing, and complacency significantly increase risk.
• Always stop, assess the task, and choose the safest method of work.
• Apply the hierarchy of control to eliminate or reduce risk.