Using Employee Participation to Develop Task-Specific JHAs

USING EMPLOYEE PARTICIPATION TO DEVELOP TASK-SPECIFIC JHAs 

One of the key concepts that are usually overlooked is to make sure that the specific employee who performs the task participates in the discussion of the JHA. The worst thing to do is to develop the JHA, make it final, and then communicate it to the operator. 

JHAs allow managers and employees to identify risks together. The manager works with the employee to record each step of the job as it is performed consulting with the employee to identify any hazards involved 

Once you have selected the job for analysis, discuss the procedure with the employee who performs the job and explain the intended purpose. Point out that you are studying the job itself and not checking on the employee s job performance. Involve the employee in all phases of the analysis, from reviewing the job steps and procedures to discussing potential hazards and recommended solutions. You should also talk to other employees who have performed the same job in the past. 

Employees are the best source for identifying job hazards, and they appreciate you consulting with them on matters that affect them. Employees become more receptive to changes in their job procedures when you give them an opportunity to help develop the change. 

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