What should be done if a workplace hazard is identified?

When a workplace hazard is identified, reporting it and taking steps to mitigate the risk is crucial to ensuring the safety and health of all employees. This proactive approach allows for immediate actions to be implemented to manage or eliminate the risk before an incident occurs. By reporting the hazard, individuals can initiate the proper protocols for assessment and intervention, which could include engineering controls, administrative changes, or PPE (personal protective equipment), depending on the nature of the hazard.

Taking steps to mitigate the risk also demonstrates a commitment to workplace safety and compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, which require employers to identify and control hazards in the workplace. This not only protects employees but also helps to foster a culture of safety within the organization.

In contrast, other options may lead to negative outcomes. Ignoring the hazard allows it to persist, increasing the likelihood of injury or accident. Simply notifying the employee responsible for the hazard without taking action may not lead to adequate risk management. Waiting for a scheduled safety audit could delay necessary interventions, leaving employees vulnerable to hazards in the meantime. Therefore, the most responsible and effective action is to report the hazard and actively work to mitigate the risk.