Full definition
A systematic process of identifying workplace hazards, evaluating the probability and severity of potential harm, and determining appropriate control measures to reduce risk to acceptable levels. The risk assessment is the foundation of all occupational safety programs. Process: (1) Identify hazards — walk-through inspections, job safety analysis (JSA), incident history review, and worker interviews. (2) Assess risk — Risk = Probability × Severity (using a risk matrix, typically 5×5); categorize as Low, Medium, High, or Critical. (3) Determine controls — apply the Hierarchy of Controls (most to least effective): Elimination (remove the hazard entirely), Substitution (replace with less hazardous alternative), Engineering Controls (physical barriers, ventilation, interlocks), Administrative Controls (procedures, training, signage, rotation), and PPE (personal protective equipment — the last resort). (4) Implement and verify — put controls in place, train workers, verify effectiveness. (5) Review — reassess periodically and after any incident or change. Per ISO 45001 (occupational H&S management system), ISO 31000 (risk management framework), NOM-030-STPS (Mexico — occupational safety services), and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.132 (hazard assessment for PPE). Documentation is mandatory — the risk assessment record must be maintained and accessible.