Task Based Risk Assessment (TBRA): A Step-by-Step Guide
Work tasks often change from day to day, creating dynamic hazards that a standard risk assessment may miss. Task Based Risk Assessment (TBRA) is a proactive approach to identify hazards and control risks for specific tasks as they are performed. This article explains what TBRA is, why it’s important, and how to conduct it step by step — with examples, exam-oriented questions, and FAQs.
1. What is Task-Based Risk Assessment (TBRA)?
A Task Based Risk Assessment focuses on evaluating hazards and risks associated with individual tasks rather than entire jobs or work areas. It breaks down each task into steps, analyses hazards at each stage, and recommends control measures.
Benefits:
- Identifies hazards unique to specific tasks.
- Captures changing conditions and non-routine work.
- Enhances worker engagement and situational awareness.
- Improves compliance and reduces incidents.
2. When to Use TBRA
- For non-routine tasks or changes in normal operations.
- When new equipment or processes are introduced.
- Before high-risk tasks such as confined space entry, hot work, or lifting operations.
- In dynamic environments like construction sites where tasks vary daily.
3. TBRA vs. Job Safety Analysis (JSA)
| Aspect | TBRA | JSA |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Focuses on individual tasks | Focuses on overall job |
| Timing | Conducted before each task, often daily | Conducted once for a job, reviewed periodically |
| Flexibility | Highly dynamic | More static |
| Outcome | Real-time hazard identification and control | Long-term hazard control plan |
4. Steps to Conduct a Task-Based Risk Assessment
Step 1: Define the Task
Clearly describe the task, including location, equipment, and people involved.
Step 2: Break the Task Into Steps
List each step in sequence. Keep it clear and simple (3–10 steps).
Step 3: Identify Hazards at Each Step
Ask:
- What could go wrong?
- What hazards are present (physical, chemical, biological, ergonomic, psychosocial)?
- Who could be harmed?
Step 4: Assess the Risks
Evaluate the likelihood and severity for each hazard. Use a risk matrix or scoring system.
Step 5: Determine Control Measures
Apply the Hierarchy of Controls:
- Eliminate the hazard.
- Substitute with a safer process.
- Use engineering controls (guards, barriers).
- Apply administrative controls (procedures, permits).
- Provide PPE as the last line of defence.
Step 6: Communicate and Implement Controls
Discuss findings with the team before starting the task. Ensure all workers understand hazards and controls.
Step 7: Monitor and Review
Observe the task during execution to verify controls are effective. Update TBRA as conditions change.
5. Sample TBRA Table
| Task Step | Hazard | Risk Level | Control Measure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Set up ladder | Ladder slip/fall | High | Use level, stable surface; secure ladder; inspect before use |
| Perform overhead work | Falling tools | Medium | Use tool lanyards; barricade area below |
| Clean up | Manual handling injury | Medium | Use correct lifting technique; rotate tasks |
6. Best Practices for TBRA
- Involve workers directly in the assessment.
- Use checklists or pre-task forms to streamline TBRA.
- Integrate TBRA with permits-to-work and toolbox talks.
- Keep records of TBRA for audit and continuous improvement.
For further guidance, see OSHA’s page.
Exam-Oriented Questions with Detailed Answers
Short Answer Questions
Q1. Define Task Based Risk Assessment (TBRA).
Answer: TBRA is a method of identifying hazards and risks for specific tasks, breaking the task into steps, and applying controls in real time.
Q2. When should TBRA be conducted?
Answer: Before non-routine, high-risk, or changing tasks such as confined space entry or hot work.
Q3. List the main steps of TBRA.
Answer: Define the task, break it into steps, identify hazards, assess risks, determine controls, communicate and implement controls, and review.
Long Answer Questions
Q1. Describe how TBRA differs from a traditional Job Safety Analysis (JSA).
Answer: JSA looks at a job as a whole and is typically conducted once, while TBRA is task-specific, conducted before each task, and accounts for changing conditions. TBRA provides real-time hazard identification and control, making it ideal for dynamic environments like construction.
Q2. Explain the step-by-step procedure of conducting a TBRA.
Answer: Begin by defining the task and breaking it into steps. Identify hazards at each step and assess the risks using a risk matrix. Determine control measures according to the hierarchy of controls. Communicate these controls to the workers before starting and monitor the task to ensure controls are effective. Update the TBRA as needed.
Q3. Discuss the benefits of integrating TBRA into daily operations.
Answer: Integrating TBRA increases worker engagement, identifies new hazards promptly, reduces accidents, improves compliance, and supports continuous improvement of safety practices.
Scenario-Based Questions
Q1. A crew is about to perform a crane lift of a heavy load in windy conditions. Apply TBRA.
Answer: Define the task and break it into steps (inspect crane, rig load, lift, move, set down). Identify hazards (load swing, crane instability, dropped load). Assess risks. Controls: postpone lift if wind exceeds limits, use taglines, barricade area, ensure competent riggers.
Q2. Workers are cleaning a chemical spill outside normal procedures. How would TBRA help?
Answer: TBRA would identify hazards (chemical exposure, slips), assess risks, and determine controls such as PPE, ventilation, spill kits, and emergency procedures before starting the cleanup.
Q3. A construction task involves cutting concrete with a power saw. Apply TBRA steps.
Answer: Define task and steps. Identify hazards (dust, noise, flying debris, kickback). Assess risks. Controls: use dust suppression, wear respirators and hearing protection, install blade guards, barricade area, train operators.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the main purpose of TBRA?
Answer: To identify and control hazards for specific tasks in real time, especially non-routine or high-risk work.
2. How often should TBRA be done?
Answer: Before each task or whenever conditions change significantly.
3. Who should conduct a TBRA?
Answer: Supervisors and workers performing the task together, with support from safety professionals.
4. Can TBRA replace a JSA?
Answer: No. TBRA complements JSA by focusing on day-to-day tasks, while JSA covers broader job hazards.
5. Does TBRA require a formal form?
Answer: A simple checklist or pre-task form is often enough, as long as hazards, risks, and controls are recorded and communicated.
6. Can TBRA be integrated with toolbox talks?
Answer: Yes. Conducting TBRA right before a task and discussing it during a toolbox talk reinforces worker awareness.
7. Conclusion
Task Based Risk Assessment (TBRA) is a practical way to keep safety dynamic and proactive. By breaking tasks into steps, identifying hazards, assessing risks, and applying controls in real time, safety professionals and workers can prevent incidents, comply with regulations, and improve overall safety performance.
Psychosocial Hazards: Stress, Fatigue, and Workplace Violence
Ergonomic Hazards in Office and Construction Work
Biological Hazards in Healthcare and Laboratory Environments
Chemical Hazards and Exposure Risks in Industrial Settings
Physical Hazards at Work (Noise, Vibration, Heat, Radiation): Identification & Control
