At Calgary Safety Consultants, a recurring challenge we face when asked to assess hazard programs is that our clients often neglect to accurately define hazards. By utilizing the Energy Wheel (see below) and providing training and implementation, we can help you get your program on the right path.
Proper hazard categorization is crucial for workplace safety. A hazard refers to something that can cause harm to people, property, the environment, or the company reputation. Categorizing hazards is possible by considering their potential energy sources or state.
The Energy Wheel, which is considered best practice, is a crucial tool for hazard identification in any workplace or industry. It streamlines hazard identification and groups them into categories such as Gravity, Motion, Mechanical, Electrical, Pressure, Temperature, Chemical, Biological, Radiation, and Sound. These hazard groups are also frequent to all workplaces in all industries.
Dr. William Haddon, a leading expert in injury prevention, introduced the concept that all illnesses or injuries stem from undesired contact with various forms of energy. The Energy Wheel applies this principle to assist workers in identifying potential sources of energy-related hazards on worksites, including the ones they often overlook. Therefore, if we think about the energy associated with hazards, and the possible interactions, we can identify a hazard with more ease.
With proper training, your team can easily utilize the energy wheel and avoid hazards. Just like anything else, implementing this tool requires time, experience, and expert knowledge. Our consultants can offer the expert leadership needed for your hazard identification program.
The main reason why we recommend this process is to eliminate confusion. In many workplaces, there is a frequent mix-up between hazards and hazardous circumstances. It’s crucial to distinguish between the two words, (hazard versus hazardous). The word hazard is a verb that poses a potential danger. Hazardous, as an adverb, describes actions involving risk or danger. Getting these two confused often leads to misdiagnosis of hazards and leaves the hazards without proper controls.
We commonly see this type of error when people classify driving as a hazard during hazard assessment. This is where people can get confused because driving is hazardous, but often misunderstood as something you can easily control. Actually, driving, despite being the main focus by several companies, is not the hazard, it is actually the task.
Just listing driving as a hazard, and not the six or actual more hazards, limits the opportunities to control the risks and avoid incident. The hazards associated with driving are many, and they occur frequently. We’ve seen hazard identifications missing the motion hazard of the vehicle potentially exceeding the speed limit. We also see mechanical components missed as hazards, which can include the electrical hazards of the vehicle. There is also pressure hazards of the tires while checking the air, the temperature hazards of the exhaust, the chemical hazards of the fuel, the biological hazards left by the previous driver, and the sound hazards by the motor.
The main idea is that failing to identify a hazard correctly can lead to severe outcomes. Our examination of one of our client's data from the past five years, while ensuring their anonymity, revealed that incorrect hazard identification was the main cause in 56% of the 150 incidents. They regained momentum the following year, reducing it to 14% after the correction. By changing tactics, they avoided $120,000 in property damage and additional expenses throughout three quarters of their business cycle.
Hazards seem like a straightforward concept, but sometimes this area needs expert attention. We can help you get accurate and precise with your program, put in place the right tools, and train your people to competent. Book your complimentary consultation today to ensure you’re on the track.
Hazard assessment, with controls, should reduce your incidents. However, there could be a problem where you are not properly identifying hazards in your workplace. This could be the case when your incidents are similar in nature. The solution is to uncover more data and trend the problem—resulting a permanent action plan to remedy situation.
After you have established a program, the number of hazard assessment your organization do on a monthly basis should be tracked as a leading indicator for your KPIs. The information will help you assess the implementation of your hazard program and it’s acceptance in the workplace. Book your complimentary consult for more information on how this can be effective for your organization.
The Energy Wheel, when used right, is highly effective. However, there is a level of skill to using this tool which is where Calgary Safety Consultants can provide training and coaching. It’s unlikely, without training, that any hazard recognition attempt with be effective. However, we believe the Energy Wheel is your best chance to as effective as possible with your OH&S Management System.
You've made it this far, so let’s take the next step. Calgary Safety Consultants is here to help you ensure compliance, enhance safety, and streamline your OH&S program. Don’t wait—fill out the form, and we’ll connect with you to discuss how we can support your business. Let’s get started!
Calgary Safety Consultants delivers game-changing COR Audits and OH&S consulting designed to keep your business safe, compliant, and accident-free. With 30+ years of expertise in high-risk industries like oil & gas, construction, and manufacturing, we understand the unique challenges you face. We offer tailored safety solutions that not only meet regulatory standards but also reduce operational risks and protect your workforce. From conducting thorough safety audits to implementing comprehensive safety management systems, we ensure your team is fully supported. Our hands-on, collaborative approach means we're with you every step of the way, helping you achieve a safer, more efficient workplace. Let us handle the heavy lifting so your team stays protected, and your business thrives!
