What is a field-level hazard assessment?
An FLHA is a job- and site-specific process for identifying hazards, planning controls, and reviewing those controls with workers before work begins and when conditions change.
What goes into an FLHA?
A typical record includes a work description and location, task steps, observed hazards, risk evaluation, precautions or controls, necessary PPE, worker participation and signatures. The exact required process depends on the employer, worksite and applicable rules.
When do workers complete it?
Before beginning work and again when the work scope, site conditions, equipment or hazards change. A field-level review should reflect what is actually happening, rather than a copied list that nobody has checked.
Who is responsible?
The employer and workers remain responsible for identifying real hazards and putting appropriate controls into practice. An AI-generated draft can assist preparation but cannot inspect a jobsite.
Example: a small excavation
A crew preparing a trench should consider underground utilities, soil stability, protective systems, people and vehicles near the edge, access and emergency arrangements. A competent, site-specific assessment is essential before excavation.