A Risk Assessment Matrix is a tool used to assess the likelihood and severity of potential hazards in a workplace and can be used to determine appropriate risk control measures. When applied to the three areas of fall hazards as per OSHA (access points, unprotected skylights, and unprotected edges of buildings), a risk assessment matrix can help employers identify and prioritize the risks associated with these hazards and determine appropriate control measures.
Here’s an example of how a risk assessment matrix could be applied to the three areas of fall hazards:
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Risk Assessment Matrix OSHA Clause – 1910.28(b)(13) Work on low-slope roofs |
Risk Assessment is based on 2 factors.
- Severity of consequences – How life-threatening is it?
- Likelihood – frequencyof exposure.
Risk = Severity of consequences X Likelihood
One should prioritize Risk Assessment based on the critical danger and how frequently workers are exposed to that area.
Access Points:Â
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Likelihood of occurrence: High
Severity of consequences: High
Control measures: Employers should implement guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems to prevent falls from access points.
Unprotected Skylights:
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Likelihood of occurrence: Low to Moderate
Severity of consequences: High
Control measures: Employers should cover or guard skylights with a screen or railing that can withstand a force of at least 90 kgs applied at any point.
Unprotected Edges of Buildings:
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Likelihood of occurrence: High
Severity of consequences: High