Product Overview

Summary: This Job Hazard Analysis Methods Safe Operating Procedure provides a clear, repeatable framework for identifying, assessing and controlling risks in everyday work tasks across Australian workplaces. It standardises how your teams conduct JHAs, ensuring hazards are systematically captured, controls are documented, and WHS obligations are demonstrably met.

Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) is one of the most powerful tools for preventing workplace incidents, but in many organisations it is applied inconsistently, informally, or only after something has gone wrong. This Safe Operating Procedure sets out a structured, step‑by‑step method for planning, conducting, documenting and reviewing JHAs so that hazard identification becomes a normal part of how work is organised, not an afterthought. It is designed specifically for Australian businesses needing to demonstrate due diligence and a systematic approach to risk management under WHS legislation.

The procedure covers when a JHA is required (e.g. new tasks, changes to process, non‑routine work), who must be involved, and how to break a job into steps, identify potential hazards, assess risk levels and select appropriate controls using the hierarchy of control. It also addresses how JHAs link with permits to work, Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS), training, contractor management and incident investigations. By implementing this SOP, organisations can reduce variability in how risk is assessed, improve worker participation in safety decisions, and create clear, auditable records that stand up to regulator or client scrutiny.

Key Benefits

• Standardise the way Job Hazard Analyses are conducted across all sites and teams.
• Ensure hazards are identified and controlled before work starts, not after an incident.
• Demonstrate due diligence and compliance with WHS risk management obligations.
• Improve worker engagement by providing a clear, consultative JHA process.
• Create consistent, auditable documentation to satisfy regulators, clients and insurers.

Who is this for?

• WHS Managers
• Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs)
• Site Supervisors
• Operations Managers
• Project Managers
• Team Leaders
• Safety Advisors
• HR and Training Managers
• Compliance Managers

Hazards Addressed

• Unidentified task-specific physical hazards (slips, trips, falls, moving plant, pinch points)
• Exposure to hazardous chemicals and substances due to inadequate task planning
• Ergonomic and manual handling risks arising from poorly designed work methods
• Electrical and energy-related hazards not recognised in non-routine work
• Confined space, hot work and other high-risk activities undertaken without adequate controls
• Psychosocial risks associated with poorly planned tasks, time pressure and unclear roles
• Contractor and visitor safety risks due to inconsistent pre-task risk assessment

Included Sections

• 1.0 Purpose and Scope
• 2.0 Definitions (JHA, hazard, risk, control, hierarchy of control)
• 3.0 Roles and Responsibilities
• 4.0 When a Job Hazard Analysis is Required
• 5.0 Preparation for Conducting a JHA
• 6.0 Step-by-Step JHA Methodology
• 7.0 Risk Assessment Criteria and Rating Matrix
• 8.0 Selecting Controls Using the Hierarchy of Control
• 9.0 Consultation, Communication and Worker Participation
• 10.0 Documentation Requirements and Record Keeping
• 11.0 Integration with SWMS, Permits to Work and Procedures
• 12.0 Review, Monitoring and Continuous Improvement of JHAs
• 13.0 Training and Competency Requirements
• 14.0 Audit, Verification and Corrective Actions
• 15.0 Appendices – JHA Templates, Examples and Checklists

Legislation & References

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth and harmonised state/territory Acts)
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 (Cth and harmonised state/territory Regulations)
• Safe Work Australia – Code of Practice: How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks
• Safe Work Australia – Code of Practice: Work Health and Safety Consultation, Cooperation and Coordination
• AS/NZS ISO 45001:2018 Occupational health and safety management systems – Requirements with guidance for use
• AS ISO 31000:2018 Risk management – Guidelines