What is the process of identifying potential hazards that may cause harm called?

The process of identifying potential hazards that may cause harm is best described by hazard analysis. This involves systematically evaluating various components of a system, environment, or activity to identify dangers that could lead to accidents or injuries. The key focus is on spotting potential hazards—such as physical dangers, chemical exposures, and ergonomic issues—before they can cause harm.

Hazard analysis is foundational in many safety protocols, as it allows organizations to understand risks in their operations and implement strategies to mitigate them. This proactive approach enhances overall safety by ensuring that natively risky situations are addressed before incidents occur.

Risk assessment, while relevant, often refers to evaluating the extent of potential harm based on identified hazards, rather than the initial identification process itself. Similarly, safety reviews focus on evaluating existing safety measures, and threat evaluation may emphasize security risks more than physical hazards. In contrast, hazard analysis specifically targets the identification of dangers, making it the most fitting terminology for the process described in the question.