What is the first step in the risk assessment process?

The initial step in the risk assessment process is to identify the hazards. This is crucial because it forms the foundation for the subsequent steps in the assessment. By clearly identifying hazards, you can understand what potential dangers exist within the work environment or activity. This allows for a more thorough evaluation of risks associated with those hazards.

Once hazards are identified, the next steps involve evaluating the risks they pose, implementing appropriate controls, and reviewing the assessment to ensure ongoing safety. Skipping the identification phase could lead to overlooking significant risks, making it impossible to effectively manage safety in the workplace. Therefore, hazard identification is essential for formulating a comprehensive risk management strategy.