Job Safety Analysis (JSA) for Hand Tool Tasks

A Job Safety Analysis (JSA) is one of the most effective ways to prevent incidents offshore.

It breaks down a job into steps, identifies hazards, and defines controls that protect workers.

Hand tool tasks — although routine — often lead to injuries because they are overlooked during planning.

A proper JSA ensures safe execution even for simple mechanical work.

1. What Is a JSA?

A JSA is a structured risk assessment that includes:

1. Breaking the job into steps
2. Identifying hazards for each step
3. Listing the controls and safe methods

In many companies, a JSA is mandatory before mechanical work begins.

2. Why JSAs Are Critical for Hand Tool Work

Even simple tasks can cause serious injuries if hazards are not recognized.

JSAs help prevent:

• Pinch point injuries
• Tool slippage
• Dropped objects
• Unexpected movement
• Incorrect tool selection
• Line-of-fire incidents
• Fatigue-related mistakes

Hand injuries are one of the most common offshore incidents — JSAs reduce that risk dramatically.

3. Steps to Create a Hand Tool Task JSA

Step 1 — Define the Job

Example: “Remove flange bolts using hand tools.”

Step 2 — Break It Into Steps

For example:

1. Inspect tools
2. Position yourself safely
3. Loosen bolts in correct sequence
4. Remove bolts
5. Inspect components

Step 3 — Identify Hazards

• Incorrect tool size
• Hand slip / loss of grip
• Unexpected component movement
• Vibration from machinery
• Working in awkward posture
• Pinch points
• Hot surfaces
• Poor lighting

Step 4 — Determine Control Measures

• Select proper tools
• Use PPE
• Improve visibility
• Stop equipment or isolate energy
• Maintain stable footing
• Use correct torque technique
• Keep hands out of line-of-fire

4. Common JSA Controls for Hand Tool Tasks

Engineering Controls

• Secondary supports
• Proper lighting
• Anti-slip mats
• Barriers or exclusion zones

Administrative Controls

• Toolbox talks
• Permit-to-work system
• Assigned roles
• Task sequencing
• Fatigue management

PPE

• Gloves
• Eye protection
• Safety boots
• Coveralls

5. Example of a JSA Section

6. When to Stop Work in a JSA

Stop the job when:

• New hazards appear
• Conditions change (movement, weather, lighting)
• Tools are damaged
• Workers feel unsure or unsafe
• Stored energy is detected

Stopping work is not failure — it is safety leadership.

Key Takeaways

• JSAs prevent injuries by identifying hazards before work starts
• All hand tool work should follow a structured risk assessment
• Proper controls protect workers from pinch points, slippage, and energy hazards
• JSAs support safe, efficient offshore mechanical operations