Hazard analysis and risk assessment

SEMI S2 and the machinery directive both specify that hazard analysis and risk assessments should be used to identify hazards and determine whether or not they are adequately controlled.

For CE Marking purposes, the hazard analysis can be used as an important part of the technical file supporting the manufacturer's declaration of conformity. Highly complex or high-risk systems and processes should be evaluated using the hazard analysis approach.

The machinery assessment services (MAS) team has a staff of highly trained and experienced system safety engineers who perform hazard analysis and risk assessments with your company's input.

Risk assessments can be performed and documented in accordance with SEMI S10, EN/ISO 14121-1, EN/ISO 12100 292 or other standards such as MIL-STD-882C.

UL implements a hazard-based approach, also called the system safety approach, to evaluate the safety of products and machinery. This approach is based upon the process of identifying hazards and implementing controls to bring the risk associated with hazards to acceptable levels.

With this approach, hazards that are not easily identified, but not likely to occur, are documented with an explanation. This allows the manufacturer to discuss the situation with their customer based upon the documentation and determine the appropriate action, if any, that should be taken to meet the contractual obligation.

Additional general information about hazard analysis and risk assessment may be found at the system safety society (SSS) Website and its journal "Hazard Prevention."