Workers

The way people interact with their surroundings can generate hazards. People who are unaware of potential hazards or of how to interface with their surroundings to control these hazards can put themselves and others at increased risk. Incidents can be the result of a lack of training, incompetence, habit, haste, alcohol/drug use, or any other personal or work related issues / hazards.

Equipment

Equipment, tools and materials used in the workplace can be sources of hazards. Some products or materials are inherently dangerous, and some become hazardous over time due to wear or inadequate maintenance, storage or disposal.

Environment

The areas where employees perform their duties have hazard potential. Walkways, rails, ventilation, temperature, and lighting, may at some time become hazardous. If these factors are not regularly maintained, they could create hazardous situations, even if their main purpose is to control or eliminate hazards.

Change

Any changes in these potentially hazardous situations can result in a major new source of hazards.