The Hazard Register identifies and records the hazards associated with an activity, process or workplace. It typically records details such as the hazard description, its source or location, potential consequences, existing controls, responsible persons and actions required to eliminate or reduce the hazard.
This method works well with BowTie analysis. Once a significant hazard has been identified, a BowTie can be used to analyse it in more detail by showing how specific threats could lead to a top event, and what consequences could result. It also identifies the preventive and mitigative controls used to manage the risk.
The Hazard Register should not be confused with a Risk Register. The main difference is that a Hazard Register identifies and tracks hazards, whereas a Risk Register assesses and manages risks associated with those hazards and other uncertainties. For example, a wet floor is a hazard, while the risk of someone slipping, falling and suffering an injury is the associated risk
BowTie Pro provides an effective means of linking the two registers, while recognising that they serve different purposes. The Hazard Register provides visibility of what could cause harm, while the Risk Register helps determine how serious the consequences could be, how likely they are to occur, and what actions should be taken to control the risk.