What is the role of risk assessment in selecting controls?

• A. To identify hazards
• B. Determine level of risk
• C. Choose appropriate controls to reduce risk
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

The role of risk assessment in selecting controls is to guide you through identifying what could cause harm, judging how serious the risk is, and then choosing measures to reduce that risk. Start by spotting hazards in the task or environment. Next, assess the risk by considering how likely the hazard is to cause harm and how severe the impact would be. With that understanding, pick controls that reduce the risk, typically starting with the most effective options (elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative changes, and protective equipment). This integrated process ensures that the controls you place are based on actual risk, not just the presence of hazards or the rough likelihood alone.