Which statement describes the purpose of a Job Safety Analysis (JSA)?

Which statement describes the purpose of a Job Safety Analysis (JSA)?

• A. Identify hazards at each step and define controls
• B. Ensure full compliance with regulations only
• C. Eliminate all hazards completely
• D. Replace training programs

Answer: (B)

A Job Safety Analysis is a proactive planning tool that breaks a task down into steps, identifies hazards at each step, and defines practical controls to reduce risk. This description best fits how a JSA is used in the real world: it focuses on uncovering what could go wrong in the workflow and detailing the measures—engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE—that will prevent injuries or harm. It’s not just about ticking regulatory boxes, and it doesn’t promise to eliminate every hazard completely. Likewise, a JSA isn’t meant to replace training; the findings from a JSA inform training, procedures, and protective measures. Residual risk can remain even after controls are in place.

A Job Safety Analysis is a proactive planning tool that breaks a task down into steps, identifies hazards at each step, and defines practical controls to reduce risk. This description best fits how a JSA is used in the real world: it focuses on uncovering what could go wrong in the workflow and detailing the measures—engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE—that will prevent injuries or harm.

It’s not just about ticking regulatory boxes, and it doesn’t promise to eliminate every hazard completely. Likewise, a JSA isn’t meant to replace training; the findings from a JSA inform training, procedures, and protective measures. Residual risk can remain even after controls are in place.