Posted By Robert Could any one please indicate the difference (if any) between a safety method statement and a job safety analysis? Is a JSA an American SMS? Both, as I see it, are indicitive of the risks that are assessed before a perticular task is done by using a step by step approach, ie, the method of safe working.

Posted By Rakesh Maharaj Robert, Again, this is an interpretation issue. When I worked for a US company, the local view was that a JSA is a detailed task ID tool (a system that identifies and (in very few cases) assesses hazards associated with each step of a task). Unlike the UK, US safety professionals use separate tools to (1)identify and (2) assess risk. A JSA is an example of the latter. See (http://www.maricopa.gov/safety/jsa_description.asp) The theory behind the JSA approach is that by eradicating the risk assessment component, all tasks are undertaken in a manner which is risk averse. A safety method statement emanates from the JSA as in its design, hazards identified in each step of the JSA are eliminated, avoided or controlled without going through a process of prioritisation. I hope this helps. Regards R