Which of the following best describes a ‘hazard’?

A hazard is best described as a potential source of harm or adverse effect. This definition emphasizes that a hazard does not need to result in actual harm or injury; it merely represents a situation or condition that has the capacity to cause such negative outcomes. For instance, chemicals, machinery, or a wet floor can all be considered hazards because they pose risks to health and safety.

In contrast, other options focus on aspects related to hazards but are not definitions of what a hazard is. Unsafe work practices refer to behaviors or actions that increase risk but do not inherently define the potential threats themselves. Regulatory guidelines pertain to the standards and rules set for maintaining workplace safety but do not capture the essence of a hazard. Lastly, specific workplace incidents or accidents are the results of hazards and highlight the consequences of exposure to those potential dangers, rather than describing the hazards themselves.