What does hazard analysis help identify?

Hazard analysis plays a crucial role in safety and emergency response by identifying specific situations or conditions that may lead to injury or damage. This process involves a systematic review of potential hazards present at an incident scene, which could include environmental factors, structural issues, the presence of hazardous materials, or unsafe conditions that could affect both rescuers and victims. By effectively identifying these hazards, responders can implement appropriate strategies to mitigate risks, ensuring both their safety and the safety of those they aim to rescue.

In contrast, aspects such as the age of equipment, cost of response efforts, and time required for rescue operations are not primary focuses of hazard analysis. While these factors may be considered in other operational planning or assessment frameworks, they do not directly relate to the identification of hazards that could pose risks during an operation. The emphasis of hazard analysis is strictly on assessing and identifying dangers to facilitate a safer and more effective rescue environment.