IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

What is a hazard?

1. Anything that can cause injury or damage

2. A specific incident that has caused harm

3. A regulatory violation in safety practice

4. Conditions that lead to workplace improvement

The correct answer is: Anything that can cause injury or damage

A hazard is defined as anything that can potentially cause injury, damage, or adverse effects to health and safety. This broad definition encompasses a wide range of items, situations, or conditions, such as chemicals, machinery, working at heights, and even workplace practices that may pose risks. By identifying hazards, organizations can assess and implement appropriate control measures to mitigate those risks, ultimately leading to a safer work environment. In contrast, the other options refer to narrower concepts. A specific incident that has caused harm relates more to an outcome or consequence rather than the potential risk itself, while a regulatory violation in safety practice pertains to non-compliance with established safety laws or standards. Lastly, conditions that lead to workplace improvement focus on positive changes rather than the identification or potential existence of risks. Each of these concepts is important in the context of health and safety, but they do not encapsulate the broad nature of what a hazard truly is.