What is the first step in the five-step risk management process?

The first step in the five-step risk management process is to identify the hazards. This step is crucial because it lays the foundation for all subsequent actions in the risk management framework. By recognizing potential hazards, you can begin to understand the nature and extent of the risks involved. This process involves systematically looking for anything that could cause harm, such as physical, chemical, biological, or ergonomic hazards.

Identifying hazards allows for a clear understanding of what needs to be assessed, controlled, or mitigated later in the process. It serves as the starting point for evaluating how those hazards might impact the organization or project, informing decisions on the next steps to take. Without effectively identifying hazards first, the following steps, such as hazard assessment and control implementation, would lack the necessary context, leading to inadequate risk management strategies.

Engaging in thorough hazard identification ensures that all potential risks are recognized early on, enabling better planning and preparedness for risk management efforts.