What does the term 'hazard assessment' refer to?

The term 'hazard assessment' refers specifically to a process designed to identify and evaluate risks in the workplace. This process critically involves recognizing potential hazards that could cause harm, assessing the likelihood of those hazards leading to incidents, and determining the severity of potential consequences. By systematically identifying these risks, organizations can implement appropriate control measures to mitigate them, ensuring a safer working environment for all.

This definition emphasizes the proactive nature of hazard assessment, which is essential for maintaining health and safety standards. Recognizing hazards and understanding their implications allow employers to fulfill their legal responsibilities and protect their employees. The other choices relate to important aspects of workplace safety but do not capture the specific meaning of hazard assessment. For instance, first aid implementation focuses on responding to injuries rather than preventing hazards, routine maintenance pertains to ensuring that equipment functions properly, and methods to increase productivity do not directly address safety risks.