How to Conduct a Job Safety Analysis (JSA) to Identify Hazards
A Job Safety Analysis (JSA)—sometimes called Job Hazard Analysis (JHA)—is a systematic process that breaks a job down into individual tasks to identify hazards and determine controls before work begins. This article explains the purpose of JSA, outlines a step-by-step procedure, provides examples, and concludes with exam-oriented questions, answers, and FAQs.
1. What is a Job Safety Analysis (JSA)?
A JSA is a proactive tool used to:
- Identify hazards associated with each step of a job or task.
- Determine the risk level of each hazard.
- Recommend controls to eliminate or reduce risk.
It integrates hazard identification, risk assessment, and control measures into one practical process.
Benefits:
- Reduces accidents and near misses.
- Increases worker involvement and safety awareness.
- Ensures compliance with regulatory requirements.
2. When to Conduct a JSA
- For new jobs or tasks.
- When procedures change or new equipment is introduced.
- After an incident or near miss to prevent recurrence.
- For high-risk jobs (confined space entry, hot work, working at heights).
3. Steps to Conduct a JSA
Step 1: Select the Job
Choose jobs with the highest accident frequency or potential severity. Prioritise non-routine or high-risk tasks.
Step 2: Break the Job Into Steps
Observe the job and divide it into a sequence of basic steps (3–10 steps). Each step should describe what is done, not how it’s done.
Example: Operating a bench grinder – (1) Inspect grinder, (2) Start machine, (3) Grind material, (4) Shut down.
Step 3: Identify Hazards in Each Step
For each step, ask:
- What can go wrong?
- What are the potential consequences?
- What are the contributing factors?
Use checklists, incident data, and worker input.
Example Hazards: Flying particles, sparks, entanglement, noise.
Step 4: Assess the Risks
Evaluate the likelihood and severity of harm for each hazard. Use a risk matrix to rank them (High/Medium/Low).
Step 5: Determine Control Measures
Apply the Hierarchy of Controls to eliminate or reduce risk:
- Elimination/Substitution
- Engineering Controls
- Administrative Controls
- PPE
Record recommended controls next to each hazard.
Step 6: Document and Communicate
Compile findings in a JSA form. Share with all affected employees and train them on the hazards and controls.
Step 7: Review and Update
Periodically review JSAs and update after changes, incidents, or new information.
4. Sample JSA Table
| Job Step | Hazard | Risk Level | Control Measure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inspect grinder | Electric shock from damaged cord | Medium | Inspect cord daily, repair/replace before use |
| Start machine | Flying sparks | High | Use machine guards, wear safety goggles |
| Grind material | Noise & flying particles | High | Wear ear protection, keep guards in place |
| Shut down | Contact with hot parts | Medium | Allow to cool, wear gloves |
5. Best Practices
- Involve workers performing the job—they know the hazards best.
- Observe multiple workers to capture variations in how tasks are done.
- Use photos or diagrams in your JSA to improve clarity.
- Keep JSAs accessible at the worksite.
For official guidance, see OSHA’s page.
Exam-Oriented Questions with Detailed Answers
Short Answer Questions
Q1. Define Job Safety Analysis (JSA).
Answer: A JSA is a systematic process of breaking down a job into steps to identify hazards and implement control measures before work begins.
Q2. When should a JSA be conducted?
Answer: For new, changed, or high-risk jobs and after incidents or near misses.
Q3. List the three main components of a JSA.
Answer: Breaking the job into steps, identifying hazards, and recommending controls.
Long Answer Questions
Q1. Explain the procedure for conducting a JSA in detail.
Answer: Select a high-risk job, break it into basic steps, identify hazards for each step by asking “what can go wrong,” assess the risk level using a risk matrix, recommend controls following the hierarchy of controls, document the JSA in a form, communicate it to workers, and review it periodically.
Q2. Discuss the importance of involving workers in a JSA.
Answer: Workers performing the job have first-hand knowledge of hazards. Their participation improves accuracy, ensures practical controls, and fosters a sense of ownership that leads to better compliance.
Q3. Describe how the Hierarchy of Controls is applied in a JSA.
Answer: For each identified hazard, first try to eliminate it entirely. If that’s not possible, substitute with a less hazardous process or material. Then apply engineering controls, administrative controls, and finally PPE to reduce risk.
Scenario-Based Questions
Q1. Workers are using a power saw and one has already suffered a minor cut. How would you conduct a JSA?
Answer: Break the job into steps (inspect saw, start saw, cut material, shut down). Identify hazards (cuts, flying debris, noise). Assess risks. Apply controls—machine guards, push sticks, eye and hearing protection, training.
Q2. A maintenance task involves cleaning a chemical tank. Apply JSA steps.
Answer: Select the job, break it into steps (isolate tank, ventilate, enter, clean, exit). Identify hazards (toxic vapours, confined space entry, slips). Assess risk. Controls: substitute cleaning agents, provide ventilation, confined space permits, PPE.
Q3. A new piece of equipment is installed in a factory. What should be done before its first use?
Answer: Conduct a JSA to identify hazards, involve operators in assessment, implement controls, and train staff before operation begins.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the difference between JSA and HIRA?
Answer: JSA focuses on specific jobs or tasks, breaking them into steps to identify hazards and controls. HIRA is broader, covering overall workplace hazards and risks.
2. How often should JSAs be reviewed?
Answer: At least annually or when there are changes in equipment, processes, or after incidents.
3. Who should conduct a JSA?
Answer: A team including safety professionals, supervisors, and the workers performing the job.
4. Is JSA required by law?
Answer: While not always explicitly mandated, regulators like OSHA recommend JSAs as a best practice for hazard identification and control.
5. Can JSAs be digital?
Answer: Yes. Many organisations use digital JSA forms or apps to streamline documentation and updates.
6. How many steps should a JSA have?
Answer: Typically 3–10 steps, enough to cover the task without unnecessary detail.
6. Conclusion
A Job Safety Analysis (JSA) is one of the most effective tools for proactively identifying hazards and implementing controls at the task level. By breaking down jobs, involving workers, and following the hierarchy of controls, safety professionals can prevent incidents and ensure compliance.
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