How is risk defined in a workplace safety context?

In a workplace safety context, risk is defined as the chance of a hazard causing harm to you or someone else. This definition emphasizes the relationship between hazards present in the workplace and the potential consequences those hazards can have on individuals. Understanding risk in this way is crucial for developing effective safety protocols and risk management strategies.

By acknowledging that there is a probability of harm associated with specific hazards, safety professionals can implement measures to mitigate those risks, such as training, proper equipment, and safety regulations. Assessing risk involves identifying hazards and estimating the likelihood and severity of potential harm, which ultimately leads to creating a safer work environment.

This definition differentiates risk from concepts like severity or promotion, which do not directly address how potential hazards impact health and safety. Understanding risk as it relates to safety is fundamental for workers to recognize the importance of safe practices and compliance.