ABSTRACT
This chapter provides some practical hazard identification tools and techniques including inspections; occupational hygiene audits; consultation and communication; using information or specialist advice; reviewing records; and job safety analyses. It focuses on physical conditions while the discussion on consultation and communication will delve into the aspect of human involvement. The investigative component of the walk-through survey will require the team to make basic observations about the work environment, workers and the work process. The evaluative phase allows the identified hazards to be compared with measurable standards and decisions to be made as to the requirement for further information to assist in the risk assessment. Occupational hygiene auditing expands the inspection to identify hazards and measure the effectiveness of the occupational hygiene program against goals and standards. Effective hazard identification requires considerable awareness of the potential agents that may be present in the work environment. There is much information that can be sourced to assist in identifying occupational hygiene hazards.
