Job Safety Analysis (JSA): Core Component of Workplace Safety Surveys

A Job Safety Analysis (JSA)—also called Job Hazard Analysis (JHA)—is a systematic method to break a job into discrete steps, identify hazards at each step, and determine controls to mitigate risk. It is a foundational element of any comprehensive workplace safety and health survey.

JSA Process

1. Select the job: Prioritize high-risk, high-frequency, or new tasks.
2. Break into steps: Observe and list each sequential action.
3. Identify hazards: Physical, chemical, ergonomic, biological, psychosocial per step.
4. Determine controls: Apply hierarchy: elimination, substitution, engineering, administrative, PPE.
5. Document and communicate: Written JSA shared with workers; used for training.
6. Review and update: After incidents, changes, or periodically.

Integration with Safety Surveys

JSAs feed into broader safety audits, inspections, risk registers, and training programs. They ensure hazards are identified proactively—not just reactively after injuries.