2.4.1 Identify the hazards

2.3 Establish the context

The overall environment in which the hazard identification and risk assessment is carried out should be described and the reasons for it explained.

The scope of the assessment should also be defined. This may be expressed in terms of factors such as:

The specific work activity under consideration Geographical location, e.g. countries, offices, manufacturing plants Organizational units, e.g. specific departments Business processes or activities Products or services

Where appropriate, workers should be consulted about the scope of the assessment to ensure that it covers the areas of greatest need.

2.4 Identify the hazards and resulting risks

2.4.1 Identify the hazards

Hazards may arise from a number of different sources and will depend upon the nature and context of the work activity or other situation being assessed. The following list should be used as a starting point for the identification of hazards that may result in risks:

The work environment o Workload o Quantity and hours of work o Social factors, such as harassment and bullying o Organizational culture Work activities and situations o Workplace conditions o Equipment in use o Materials and substances used o Business processes, such as production and maintenance o Human factors o Working methods People o Who has access to the workplace o People near the workplace o Workers offsite Change o Organizational changes o Changes to the work that is performed o Changes to the way work is performed