IMPROVING OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY IN BUILDING MATERIALRETAIL THROUGH HIRA AND JSA

Abstract

Construction and material shops involve various high-risk activities, making
Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) practices essential. This study aims to
build a clear picture of existing safety practices and key risks in building
material retail requiring attention through structured safety initiatives. Based
on the findings, this study provides recommendations to improve OSH
practices for workers in these environments. HIRA (Hazard Identification and
Risk Assessment) and JSA (Job Safety Analysis) methods were employed to
identify potential occupational hazards by defining the characteristics of
possible hazards and evaluating associated risks. The findings reveal several
unsafe acts and conditions from various working process and activity leading
to potential hazards. A total of eight potential hazards were identified with
HIRA uncovering one extreme risk, three very high risks, three high risks, and
one medium risk. Among these potential hazards, manual handling posing the
highest risk, followed by ergonomic issues, dust exposure, and contact with
sharp objects where all classified as very high risks. To mitigate these risks, by
using JSA, a combination of engineering controls, administrative measures,
and PPE use was recommended in order to improve material handling,
workstation conditions, and safety equipment usage. These recommendations
serve as the foundation for implementing a proper OSH management system.