What is the first step in performing a job hazard analysis (JHA)?

The first step in performing a job hazard analysis (JHA) is to identify the job tasks involved in the work. Understanding and outlining the specific tasks that are going to be performed is essential because it lays the groundwork for the entire analysis. By clearly delineating these tasks, safety professionals can assess each one for potential hazards and determine the necessary precautions that should be taken to ensure safety.

Identifying job tasks allows for a systematic examination of how work is performed as well as the conditions under which the work occurs. This foundational step enables an effective analysis of risks associated with each task, which is critical for developing subsequent safety measures and protocols. Establishing what the job entails ensures that no significant hazard is overlooked, which is fundamental for a thorough hazard assessment and creating a safer work environment.

The other options, while related to safety practices, are steps that come after the initial identification of job tasks. Developing safety protocols or training workers on personal protective equipment (PPE) naturally follows after understanding the tasks and their associated hazards are established. Conducting a site inspection may help in understanding the environment and existing conditions but is still secondary to accurately defining the work tasks involved.