Preparation of a task risk analysis (TRA).
A detailed analysis of exceptional work.
A TRA starts with an inventory of risks.
Table of contents
What factors determine the additional risks of an assignment?
- Nature of work: Working with hazardous materials, excavation work, high-pressure liquid cleaning, new machinery,...
- The workplace: Confined space, difficult to access workplace, few escape routes, little room to move...
- The workplace environment: traffic, material storage, other activities nearby, working in a production area....
- Complexity of work: Operating with multiple companies in the same place, time constraints, many people in a small place....
- Working conditions: Exceptional weather conditions, lighting, noise, temperature, dust, odor, vibration, work posture....
It may happen that the TRA is adjusted during the work. This may happen when the proposed work plan turns out to be infeasible in practice, the right tools are missing, working conditions have changed, or an accident or incident has just occurred.
Who draws up the TRA?
The TRA is prepared by a team of implementers, planners, work planners and, if necessary, experts. The principal issuing the work permit may also require that a TRA be prepared. You can also determine for yourself that the work is unusual and spontaneously prepare a TRA.
What should you pay attention to?
- Safety: Preventing accidents, mistakes and unsafe situations.
- Health: Preventing health damage.
- Environment: Minimizing environmental influences.
- Efficiency: Targeted work at minimum cost.
- Welfare: Creating the most favorable working environment possible.
A TRA is specifically prepared for abnormal works. Pay adequate attention to the specific characteristics that make the work deviant and potentially more risky.
Need help with creating
of a TRA?
From planning to execution in 8 steps
Step 1 - Establish the task
Identify in detail what is “different” from “normal” work.
- What is the nature of the work?
- What are the working conditions like?
- Is the environment different?
- How complex is the work?
- Under what conditions should the work be performed?
Step 2 - Determine the risks
Determine and list the risks. Don’t just look at the risks present, but also consider new risks that may arise.
For this, use Fine & Kinney’s risk analysis method:
R = W x B x E
Risk = likelihood factor x exposure factor x severity factor
The probability factor W is the probability that a hazard will cause damage.
The exposure factor B takes into account the duration and frequency of exposure to the hazard.
At severity level E, indicate the possible and most severe effects of the exposure.
The final risk figure gives a clear view of the acceptability of the risk.
Step 3 - Remove risks or make them manageable
Eliminate risks systematically, but ensure that the practicality of the work is not compromised.
Step 4 - Analyze and describe the work preparation.
Especially consider the order of operations, these are critical in a TRA. In fact, for certain tasks, it can be very dangerous to perform the steps in the wrong order. Consider, for example, turning off a power circuit, removing pressure from a hydraulic system, or placing warnings when opening an access hatch.
Also pay adequate attention to other factors and requirements, such as the procedures to be followed, the presence and safety of machinery/tools, any training and experience requirements of the performers, and the drawings and quality requirements to be used, set by yourself or the client.
Step 5 - Draft the TRA with the team
Prepare a TRA with several workers with diverse expertise. Involvement of all implementers, planners and work planners is crucial for a broad analysis of potential risks.
Step 6 - Communicate the TRA to stakeholders
Communicate the completed TRA to all involved, including performers and supervisors. A pre-work kick-off meeting is ideal for discussing the TRA.
Step 7 - Carry out the works according to the measures
Start work after everyone is aware of the management measures. Effective advance communication ensures safer working conditions.
A written document can serve as a useful reference source. It is the employee’s responsibility to perform the work in accordance with the safety regulations and ensure that he does not pose a danger to both himself and his colleagues.
While performing the work, supervisors should closely monitor the risks identified in the TRA.
Step 8 - Evaluate and document the results.
Upon completion of the task/project, an evaluation follows with those involved, including implementers, work planners, schedulers and supervisors. Discuss whether the work was performed in accordance with safety regulations and work instructions. Discuss any unforeseen circumstances, dangerous situations or accidents.
Keep the TRA in a central location even if you do not need it again immediately. The report and evaluation of the TRA should be kept carefully, as this information may be valuable in the future as a source of inspiration for similar working conditions.
Decision
- Conventional risk analysis is supplemented by a TRA to safely address exceptional work.
- A TRA is prepared by the team involved prior to commencement , so additional risks are fully highlighted.
- Communicate the TRA to all involved to minimize risk factors and ensure careful documentation of the process.
- Preparing a TRA is a crucial step in ensuring that exceptional work is performed safely and effectively.
Looking for clarity?
Who should prepare a TRA? What exactly is deviant work? How long in advance can I make a TRA? Can I reuse the same TRA?
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