Job Hazard Analysis (JHA): Steps, Example & Free Template
A job hazard analysis (JHA) breaks a job into steps, identifies the hazards in each step, and defines the controls needed to do the work safely — before work begins. It's the same process as a job safety analysis (JSA); OSHA uses the term JHA (Publication 3071).
JHA vs. JSA: is there a difference?
No meaningful difference. A job hazard analysis and a job safety analysis describe the same exercise — the term is mostly regional and company preference. OSHA publishes the method as a Job Hazard Analysis (Publication 3071). Some operators reserve "JHA" for the formal written analysis and "JSA" for the field-level pre-job review, but the steps are identical.
How to do a job hazard analysis
- 1
Break the job into steps
List the job as the sequence of actions a worker actually performs, in order. Aim for 8–15 steps — broad enough to be useful, specific enough that each step has its own hazards. Involve the crew who do the work.
- 2
Identify the hazards in each step
For every step ask "what could go wrong?" — struck-by, caught-between, falls, stored energy, chemical or H2S exposure, ergonomics, and hazards from adjacent operations. One step can have several hazards.
- 3
Determine controls using the hierarchy of controls
For each hazard, pick the most effective control you can apply — elimination first, PPE last. Document the specific control, not a vague instruction like "be careful."
- 4
Document and review with the crew
Write the steps, hazards, and controls on a JHA/JSA form and review it with everyone before work starts. Each worker signs off to confirm they understand the hazards and controls for their role.
- 5
Keep it current
A JHA is a living document. If the scope, crew, equipment, or conditions change, stop, update the analysis, and re-review. Revisit routine-task JHAs at least annually and after any incident.
The hierarchy of controls
When you pick controls in step 3, work top-down — the controls at the top remove the hazard; the ones at the bottom only reduce exposure to it.
- 1. Elimination — Physically remove the hazard — the most effective control (e.g., do the work at ground level instead of at height).
- 2. Substitution — Replace the hazard with something safer (e.g., a less toxic solvent).
- 3. Engineering controls — Isolate people from the hazard (e.g., machine guards, ventilation, barriers).
- 4. Administrative controls — Change the way people work (e.g., procedures, permits, training, rotation).
- 5. PPE — Protect the worker with equipment — the last line of defense, not the first (e.g., gloves, FR clothing, gas monitor).
Job hazard analysis example
Example job: Change out a valve on a pressurized line.
| Job step | Hazard | Control |
|---|---|---|
| Isolate and lock out the line | Stored energy / accidental release | LOTO with a verified zero-energy state |
| Bleed off pressure | Trapped fluid or gas release, H2S | Bleed to a safe location; monitor with a personal gas detector |
| Break the connection | Residual pressure, line of fire | Crack the fitting slowly; keep hands and body out of the line of fire |
| Remove and replace the valve | Manual handling / pinch points | Team lift or mechanical aid; gloves; clear pinch points |
| Return line to service | Leak under pressure | Re-pressurize gradually; leak-check before full service |
Your JHA template is a start. BasinCheck is the system.
Build a JHA in minutes with a hazard library that suggests controls, have the crew sign off on their phones, and keep every analysis in a searchable, audit-ready record.
Frequently asked questions
What is a job hazard analysis?
A job hazard analysis (JHA) is a procedure that breaks a job into steps, identifies the hazards in each step, and defines controls to eliminate or reduce them before work begins. OSHA describes the method in Publication 3071.
What is the difference between a JHA and a JSA?
There is no practical difference. A job hazard analysis (JHA) and a job safety analysis (JSA) are the same process. OSHA uses the term JHA; many oilfield and construction crews say JSA. Some companies use JHA for the formal written analysis and JSA for the field-level pre-job review.
What are the steps of a job hazard analysis?
Break the job into sequential steps, identify the hazards in each step, determine controls for each hazard using the hierarchy of controls, document and review the analysis with the crew, and keep it current as conditions change.
Is a job hazard analysis required by OSHA?
OSHA does not mandate a specific JHA format, but the General Duty Clause requires employers to address recognized hazards, and OSHA recommends job hazard analysis as a best practice (Publication 3071). Some operator contracts and company safety programs may also require a documented pre-job hazard analysis for non-routine work.