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What Is a Hazard? (UK Workplace Health & Safety Guide)

In health and safety, a hazard is anything with the potential to cause harm.

Understanding hazards is the first step in managing workplace risk and complying with UK health and safety law.

Common Workplace Hazards

Hazards can include:

  • Slips, trips and uneven surfaces
  • Working at height
  • Hazardous substances
  • Moving machinery
  • Poor lighting or ventilation
  • Fire risks

Hazards exist in all workplaces — not just construction or industrial sites.

Hazard vs Risk

  • A hazard is the source of potential harm
  • A risk is the likelihood that the hazard will cause harm

Identifying hazards correctly is essential for an effective risk assessment.

How Hazards Are Managed

Once identified, hazards should be:

  • Eliminated where possible
  • Controlled using physical measures, procedures, or PPE
  • Reviewed regularly

The Bottom Line

Hazards are present in every workplace. Identifying them properly is the foundation of safe systems of work and effective risk control.

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