Assignment 1 Semester 2 2025
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Due Date: 15 August 2025
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
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, QUESTION 1
Risk analysis is an important practice in health and safety management as it enables
organisations to identify, evaluate, and control potential hazards before they cause
harm. Health and safety organisations consider risk analysis for several reasons
linked to internal policies, industry requirements, and external pressures. One of the
main drivers is company policy, which often sets out the organisation’s commitment
to maintaining safe operations. Conducting a risk analysis ensures that management
decisions are aligned with the organisation’s safety objectives and provides a
structured approach to hazard prevention (Reese, 2016).
Another reason is compliance with industry standards. Many industries operate
under specific guidelines that require regular assessment of potential risks. By
performing risk analysis, organisations demonstrate adherence to recognised safety
practices and maintain their standing within the industry. External factors, such as
community relations, also play a role. Communities expect companies to operate
safely and responsibly, particularly when processes have the potential to affect the
public. Engaging in risk analysis helps build trust and maintain a positive public
image (Reese, 2016).
Changes in processes within an organisation create new operational conditions that
may introduce unfamiliar hazards. Modifying production techniques, introducing new
machinery, or altering work routines can affect the safety profile of the workplace.
Risk analysis ensures that any change is examined for potential hazards and that
measures are taken to manage them effectively. Similarly, increased awareness of
hazards, often driven by internal inspections or safety campaigns, prompts
organisations to re-evaluate workplace risks to ensure they remain manageable
(Reese, 2016).
Accidents or near misses are critical motivators for risk analysis. These events
provide direct evidence that safety measures may be inadequate or that certain
hazards were previously overlooked. Analysing these incidents enables
organisations to prevent recurrence and improve overall safety performance.
Regulatory compliance is another significant factor. Governments and regulatory
agencies require organisations to conduct regular risk assessments as part of
occupational health and safety laws. Failing to comply can result in penalties, legal
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