What is the main purpose of a job safety analysis (JSA)?

The main purpose of a job safety analysis (JSA) is to identify hazards associated with specific tasks before they begin. A JSA is a proactive approach to workplace safety that involves breaking down a job into its steps and analyzing the potential hazards involved in each step. By doing this, workers and supervisors can anticipate risks and implement safety measures to mitigate them, ultimately ensuring a safer work environment.

Identifying hazards in advance allows for the development of safer work procedures and the provision of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), enhancing overall worker safety. This practice is crucial in the construction industry, where various risks can lead to accidents if not properly addressed before starting a task, thus fostering a culture of safety.