Difference Between Hazard and Risk Explained
The terms hazard and risk are often used interchangeably in workplace safety, but they have very different meanings. Understanding the difference between the two is essential for identifying dangers and implementing effective control measures.
Every safety professional — from site supervisors to new employees — must be able to distinguish between a hazard (something that can cause harm) and a risk (the likelihood that harm will actually occur).
This article explains the difference between hazard and risk, provides practical examples, and explores how they work together in risk management.
What Is a Hazard?
A hazard is anything that has the potential to cause harm — to people, property, or the environment.
In simpler terms, a hazard is a source of danger. It may not always lead to an accident, but it has the potential to cause injury, illness, or damage if not controlled properly.
Examples of hazards include:
- A slippery floor
- Exposed electrical wires
- Working at height without guardrails
- Handling toxic chemicals
- Noise from heavy machinery
Types of Hazards:
- Physical Hazards – noise, vibration, radiation, heat, cold, or unsafe machinery
- Chemical Hazards – exposure to toxic or flammable substances
- Biological Hazards – bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms
- Ergonomic Hazards – poor posture, repetitive strain, or incorrect lifting techniques
- Psychosocial Hazards – stress, harassment, or excessive workload
A hazard exists whether or not someone is exposed to it. For example, an uncovered manhole is a hazard, even if no one has fallen in yet.
What Is a Risk?
A risk is the likelihood or probability that a hazard will cause harm — and the severity of that harm if it occurs.
Simply put, while a hazard is the potential for harm, a risk is the chance that harm will happen.
Examples of risks include:
- The chance of a worker slipping and getting injured on a wet floor
- The likelihood of getting electrocuted from exposed wiring
- The probability of falling from height while working on scaffolding
- The risk of inhaling toxic fumes during a chemical process
So, the hazard is the danger, while the risk is the measure of how likely and severe that danger might be in real life.
The Relationship Between Hazard and Risk
Hazards and risks are closely related but not the same.
A hazard exists inherently — for example, a moving vehicle.
A risk depends on exposure — how likely someone is to be struck by that vehicle and how severe the outcome would be.
In risk assessment, safety professionals analyze hazards to determine their associated risks and then implement control measures to reduce them.
Example:
| Situation | Hazard | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Working on a scaffold 10 meters high | Falling from height | Serious injury or fatality |
| Spilled oil on the floor | Slippery surface | Worker may slip and suffer a fracture |
| Using a chemical cleaner | Toxic fumes | Skin burns or respiratory problems |
| Welding operation | UV radiation, sparks | Eye injury or burns |
This comparison shows that hazards describe what can cause harm, while risks describe how likely and how severe that harm might be.
How to Identify Hazards
The first step in risk management is hazard identification. This involves systematically examining the workplace to find anything that could cause injury or illness.
Common methods of hazard identification include:
- Workplace inspections and observations
- Job Safety Analysis (JSA)
- Reviewing past incidents or near misses
- Consulting employees and supervisors
- Checking Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for chemicals
Once identified, hazards are documented, categorized, and assessed to determine the level of risk they pose.
How to Assess Risks
A risk assessment evaluates how likely a hazard is to cause harm and how severe the consequences would be.
Risk is typically assessed using a risk matrix, which combines the likelihood of an incident with its severity.
| Likelihood | Severity | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | Minor | Paper cut |
| Possible | Moderate | Slip resulting in a sprain |
| Likely | Major | Fall from height causing fracture |
| Almost Certain | Severe | Explosion or fatality |
This assessment helps prioritize which hazards require immediate attention.
How to Control Hazards and Reduce Risks
After identifying hazards and assessing risks, the next step is implementing control measures to eliminate or minimize them.
Safety professionals follow the Hierarchy of Controls — a structured approach to managing hazards:
- Elimination: Remove the hazard completely (e.g., replace a chemical process with a safer one).
- Substitution: Replace the hazard with something less dangerous (e.g., use a water-based paint instead of solvent-based).
- Engineering Controls: Isolate people from the hazard (e.g., install machine guards).
- Administrative Controls: Change the way work is done (e.g., rotate shifts to reduce exposure).
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide protective gear as the last line of defense.
By applying these controls, risks can be reduced to acceptable levels even if the hazard remains.
Practical Example
Imagine you are working in a manufacturing plant where hot surfaces are common.
- Hazard: Hot machinery surface (potential to cause burns).
- Risk: A worker touching the surface and getting burned.
- Control Measures:
- Install warning signs and protective guards.
- Provide heat-resistant gloves.
- Train workers on safe handling and awareness.
Even though the hazard (hot surface) still exists, the risk of injury is reduced through these measures.
Why Understanding the Difference Matters
Knowing the difference between hazards and risks allows organizations to:
- Conduct more accurate risk assessments
- Prioritize safety measures effectively
- Prevent accidents before they happen
- Build a strong safety culture
- Ensure compliance with legal and industry standards
Without this understanding, safety management becomes reactive instead of proactive.
Key Takeaway
- Hazard: Something that can cause harm.
- Risk: The chance that harm will occur, considering likelihood and severity.
Both must be managed together through awareness, assessment, and control to ensure a safe and healthy workplace.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between hazard and risk is fundamental to preventing workplace accidents and injuries. Hazards exist everywhere — but by identifying them, assessing their risks, and applying proper control measures, we can create safer environments for everyone.
In occupational safety, awareness is the first step, but action is what saves lives. A proactive approach to managing hazards and risks forms the backbone of every successful safety program.
For checklist and templates visit The HSE Tools.
How to Build a Positive Safety Culture in the Workplace
The ABC of Safety: Awareness, Behavior, and Culture
Common Causes of Workplace Accidents and How to Prevent Them
10 Golden Safety Rules Every Worker Should Know
What Is Workplace Safety? Definition, Importance, and Key Principles
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a hazard in simple terms?
A hazard is anything with the potential to cause harm — such as chemicals, noise, or unsafe equipment.
What is a risk in workplace safety?
Risk refers to the likelihood that exposure to a hazard will cause harm and how severe that harm could be.
Can a hazard exist without risk?
Yes, a hazard can exist without risk if no one is exposed — for example, an unused electrical outlet poses no immediate risk.
Why is it important to identify hazards and assess risks?
Because it helps prevent accidents, protect workers, and comply with legal safety requirements.
What is the best way to control workplace hazards?
Follow the Hierarchy of Controls — eliminate, substitute, engineer, administer, and use PPE as the last resort.
