Automation
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110-BTQ-01-IGOT © 2024, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
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Risk Assessments
Risk assessments are crucial to workplace safety, helping identify potential hazards and develop
mitigation strategies. There are several methods for conducting risk assessments, including:
What-If Analysis: This method involves brainstorming potential scenarios and their
consequences to identify risks and develop mitigation strategies.
Fault Tree Analysis (FTA): FTA uses a tree diagram to map out the pathways that can lead to a
system failure, helping to identify root causes and preventive measures.
Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA): FMEA systematically evaluates potential failure
modes within a system and their effects, prioritizing them based on severity, occurrence, and
detection.
RACE: The RACE method involves recognizing potential hazards, assessing their risk levels,
controlling them through practical measures, and periodically evaluating the effectiveness
of these controls. This structured approach helps ensure a safer workplace by systematically
managing risks.
Also, various machine safety standards outline risk assessment criteria specifically for machinery
applications such as CSA Z432, ANSI B11.0, and ISO 12100.
Here are some additional resources on performing risk assessments:
Hazard Assessment Tool
Step by Step Guide on Performing a Hazard Assessment
Health & Safety Checklists, Forms & Templates
Guarding
Use fixed, adjustable, or self-adjusting guards on machinery. Ensure physical guard construction
and dimensions are such that hazards cannot be accessed, and regularly inspect and maintain
these guards to ensure they remain effective.
Review this article for more information: Machine Guarding and Electrical Hazards.
Isolation of Hazard Zones/Areas
Isolate areas where machine operations or other hazards are present with physical barriers or
protective devices to prevent unauthorized access. Mark these areas with warning signage and
provide workers with hazard awareness training.
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