Before evaluating a hazard, it first needs to be:

In the context of evaluating hazards, the first critical step is to identify the hazard. This process involves recognizing the presence of any dangerous conditions or situations that could pose a risk to personnel or operations. Identifying hazards sets the foundation for further evaluation, which includes assessing the nature and severity of the hazards, determining control measures, and prioritizing risks based on their potential impact.

Once a hazard is clearly identified, it can be classified based on its nature (such as chemical, physical, biological, etc.), and then prioritized according to the level of risk it presents. Without proper identification, it is impossible to accurately classify or prioritize hazards, making this initial step essential in effective hazard management and incident safety.