In task analysis the next step after selecting the job or jobs to be analyzed is to

​​​Task analysis is a key method for recognizing potential hazards. The five steps of a thorough task analysis include:

Step 1: Select the job or task to be analysed

Ideally, all jobs should have a job/task analysis. But because of the number of jobs in your workplace, it may not be practical to do this for every single one so you may have to prioritize jobs for analysis. To establish that priority, consider the following groupings:

• Jobs with particularly high injury rates or injury severity
• Jobs where you know the potential for injury or illness is high
• New or modified jobs where hazards may not be evident
• Non-routine or infrequently performed jobs with which workers may not be familiar
  

Step 2: Identify the steps involved in that job or task

A job step, or “task", is one piece of getting a job done. As a general rule, most jobs can be described in 10 steps or less. If more steps are identified, consider dividing the job into two parts.

It may sound simple, but job analysis takes time and thought. Too detailed, and you will create too many steps. Too general, and you may miss key job functions. It's also extremely important to keep the steps in their correct sequence. Any step which is out of order may miss potential hazards or may introduce hazards which do not actually exist.

The example we'll look at uses a familiar task – changing a flat tire – to illustrate the job analysis process. Using a job/task analysis worksheet, record each of the steps taken to perform a specific task or job. At this stage, you're identifying what is done, not how it is done.

Job steps are recorded in the left-hand column.

Job/Task Analysis Worksheet

​Download a sample job/task analysis worksheet.​

Step 3: Identify and rank potential hazards at each step

Next, list the things that could go wrong at each step. If possible, watch the job being performed as you work through this analysis process. Think of worst-case scenarios and focus on potential hazards.

Ask questions like:

• can any body part get caught in or between objects?
• can I be struck by or against anything?
• can I slip, trip or fall?
• can I strain or sprain my back or other muscle from lifting, pushing or pulling?
• is there possible exposure to extreme heat or cold?
• is excessive noise or vibration a problem?
• is there a danger from falling objects?
• is lighting a problem?
• can weather conditions affect safety?
• can I come in contact with an energy source?
• can I come in contact with a hazardous substance?
• are there dusts, fumes, mists or vapours in the air?

List potential hazards in the middle column of the worksheet, next to the corresponding job step of the worksheet below.

Job/Task Analysis Worksheet

Step 4: Determine preventative measures to control the hazards

You've identified the steps of a job, and the hazards at each step. Now, how do you prevent injury by eliminating or controlling hazards?

The primary method of control is to eliminate the hazard completely. If that is not practical, the next option is to reduce the risk as much as possible. There are three key ways to reduce the risk. Always consider them in this order:

Engineering controls can include:

• substitution, such as using a less toxic substance, or using smaller boxes when handling/transferring materials
• isolation, such as using a sound-proof barrier to reduce noise levels or using remote control systems to operate machinery
• modification of tools/equipment, such as installing guards around moving parts of machinery

Administrative controls can include:

• using work permit systems for hazardous work such as hot work (i.e., welding) or confined space entry
• providing training and supervision
• implementing job rotation to reduce exposure times

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a last resort. It should only be used if you have exhausted all other possible methods of reducing risk. If you do require your workers to wear PPE, always ensure that:

• the right type of PPE is selected for the job
• PPE fits properly and is comfortable under working conditions
• workers are trained in the need for PPE, its use and maintenance
• PPE is stored in a clean and fully operational condition

List the hazard control methods in the right hand column of the worksheet, numbered to match the hazard in question. In listing the methods, avoid general statements such as “be careful" or “use caution." Be specific about what workers should do and how they should do it.

Job/Task Analysis Worksheet

Step 5: Write a safe work procedure to identify and control the potential hazards

There are several ways to write a safe work procedure. One way is to transfer the information from your job/task analysis worksheet into a narrative format. For example:

​Safe Work Procedure 1.1 – Changing a Flat Tire

1. Park vehicle

a) Drive vehicle off the road to an area well clear of traffic, even if it requires rolling on a flat tire. Turn on the emergency flashers to alert passing drivers so they will not hit you.

b) Choose a firm, level area so you can jack up the vehicle without it rolling.

c) Apply parking brake, leave transmission in gear or PARK, place blocks in front and back of wheel diagonally opposite the flat. This will also help prevent the vehicle from rolling.

2. Remove spare and tool kit

a) To avoid back strain, turn spare into an upright position in the wheel well. Stand as close to the trunk as possible and slide the spare close to your body. Lift out and roll to the flat tire.

And so on…​

Find a Safe Work Procedure template here.​

As you develop your safe work procedure, ensure any hazard controls that are repeated throughout are identified early in the document. In the changing tire example, you could include a note at the beginning to advise workers that the activity requires them to use correct lifting, carrying and handling techniques.​

Involve your workers

It is best to involve your workers in the task analysis process. They are the people most familiar with the tasks. They are most likely to have insight into the jobs that a casual observer may not notice.

Learn more about task analysis

• Download a sample job/task analysis worksheet or
• Find out the specifics of the task analysis process