What two elements must be considered when assessing a hazard?

When assessing a hazard, the two essential elements to consider are probability and severity. Probability refers to the likelihood of an event occurring, which helps in understanding the potential risks associated with a hazard. It allows evaluators to gauge how frequently an incident might happen. Severity, on the other hand, assesses the potential impact or consequences of the hazard if it were to occur. This evaluation determines how harmful an incident could be, which is critical in prioritizing safety measures and developing mitigation strategies.

Together, probability and severity provide a comprehensive framework for understanding risk. They enable decision-makers to focus on high-risk scenarios and implement appropriate safety measures to minimize both the likelihood of an incident and its potential consequences. The integration of these two elements ensures a balanced approach to hazard assessment, which is vital in explosive safety and other safety-related fields.