RISK MANAGEMENT OF ELECTRICAL HAZARDS Bridging the gap in understanding hazard versus risk

Most occupational health and safety (OHS) professionals understand the difference between hazard and risk. However, the distinction between these terms is not well understood in the electrical industry, where they are often used interchangeably. This gap in understanding between OHS and electrical professionals needs to be bridged to ensure that electrical hazards, and the risks arising from those hazards, are effectively addressed. The objective of this article is to clarify the difference between hazard and risk and explain how OHS risk management principles can be applied to electrical hazards. © 1975-2012 IEEE.