How to write a JSA or JSEA (with a template to download)
A JSA (job safety analysis) breaks a task into steps, lists the hazards at each step and sets the controls before anyone starts. A JSEA (job safety and environmental analysis) is the same thing with environmental hazards added, such as spills, dust or noise reaching neighbours. You’ll also hear JHA (job hazard analysis) and task hazard analysis. They all do the same job.
Download: Word template (editable) | PDF (print and fill in)
What’s in the template
- Job details: task, site, who prepared it, supervisor, PPE and plant.
- A SWMS check, so high-risk construction work gets the right document.
- Ten job steps, each with hazards, a risk rating before and after controls, the controls and who is responsible.
- A worker sign-on section and review triggers.
How to fill in a JSA
- Write the job steps in order. Keep each to a few words: “Isolate pump”, “Remove guard”. Aim for five to ten steps.
- List the hazards at each step, for people and for the environment.
- Rate the risk. Our 5×5 risk matrix works well here.
- Set the controls, starting with elimination and working down to PPE.
- Name who is responsible for each control.
- Talk it through with the crew and get them to sign on. Workers who do the job usually know the hazards best.
JSA vs SWMS: which one do you need?
A JSA isn’t named in the WHS Regulations. A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is. Under the model WHS Regulations, a SWMS must be prepared before high-risk construction work starts (r 299), and the regulations list what counts as high-risk construction work (r 291), such as work with a risk of a person falling more than 2 metres, work near energised electrical installations and work involving demolition of load-bearing elements.
So if the task is high-risk construction work, you need a SWMS. Many sites use a JSA for everything else, or alongside the SWMS for a specific task on the day. Both support the same duty: to identify hazards and control risks under r 34 to r 36.
Consultation
PCBUs must, so far as is reasonably practicable, consult workers who are, or are likely to be, directly affected by a health and safety matter, including when identifying hazards and deciding on controls (model WHS Act s 47 to s 49). The sign-on section is a simple way to show that happened.
Stop JSAs disappearing into folders
Log the hazards and controls from your JSAs in Lahebo’s WHS risk management module and give each action an owner and a due date.
Frequently asked questions
What does JSA stand for?
Job safety analysis. A JSEA is a job safety and environmental analysis, which adds environmental hazards.
Do I have to use a JSA?
The term JSA isn’t used in the model WHS Regulations. The legal requirements are to identify hazards and control risks (r 34 to r 36) and, for high-risk construction work, to prepare a SWMS (r 299). A JSA is a common way to meet the first duty.
Is a JSA the same as a SWMS?
No. A SWMS is required for high-risk construction work under r 299 and has set content requirements. A JSA is a general task-planning tool.
Sources
- Model WHS Regulations, r 34 to r 36 (hazard identification and control), r 291 (high-risk construction work), r 299 (SWMS)
- Model WHS Act, s 47 to s 49 (consultation with workers)
- Safe Work Australia, model Code of Practice: Construction work (SWMS)
