In a COPTR safety scenario, what is the difference between a hazard and a risk?

In a COPTR safety scenario, what is the difference between a hazard and a risk?

• A. A hazard is the probability; risk is the source of harm.
• B. A hazard is a potential source of harm; risk combines probability of occurrence with consequence to quantify potential harm.
• C. A hazard is the actual harm; risk is the mitigation plan.
• D. Hazard and risk are the same.

Answer: (B)

A hazard is anything that could cause harm—the source or situation with potential to cause injury or damage. Risk is how likely that harm is to occur and how severe the outcome could be, typically considered as the combination of probability of exposure and the consequence if exposure happens. In COPTR safety thinking, you assess risk to decide what controls are needed. For example, a hot surface is a hazard; the risk depends on whether someone might touch it, how long contact lasts, and what protection is in place. The statement that best fits is that a hazard is a potential source of harm, while risk combines probability and consequence to quantify potential harm.

A hazard is anything that could cause harm—the source or situation with potential to cause injury or damage. Risk is how likely that harm is to occur and how severe the outcome could be, typically considered as the combination of probability of exposure and the consequence if exposure happens. In COPTR safety thinking, you assess risk to decide what controls are needed. For example, a hot surface is a hazard; the risk depends on whether someone might touch it, how long contact lasts, and what protection is in place. The statement that best fits is that a hazard is a potential source of harm, while risk combines probability and consequence to quantify potential harm.