What is a JSA and should I be using them?
A JSA – Job Safety Analysis – is the most common type of general safety preparation employers can 
take against health and safety hazards on the job. It is usually a simple form that structures a quick hazard analysis that field supervision can use every day.
A JSA should be done before you start a task, after an accident or near miss, and if a new condition or hazard presents on the job.
How Do I use a JSA?
- Step back and examine the job you’re about to perform with fresh eyes, unclouded by routine and alert to potential hazards related to the scope of work. Be the detective and look for clues that you wouldn’t normally look for when performing your task.
- Look closely at how a job is done and what sort of tools and machinery people are working with.
- Notice any obvious hazards, then look deeper to see if you can uncover any hidden hazards. These are usually not intentionally hidden, they just might need a new set of objective eyes on them to notice the hazard.
- Are there controls in place already to prevent injury around the workplace hazards you have discovered? Discuss all hazards with the crew. Also discuss any controls that are in place to eliminate or mitigate them. Any hazards that have not been addressed should be documented and either mitigated or eliminated prior to starting work.
- If you’re working with a temp service or an employment agency, be sure to inform them of any hazards that employees need to be aware of.
- Everyone on the crew participates in the JSA. The people doing the job everyday are the best detectives!
- Fill out the document and get this paperwork in the hands of the Safety and Risk department or management ASAP.
Good detective work! You may have just saved a life.