BNL Hazard Identification Tool F.A.Q.

What is the purpose of the Hazard Identification Tool?

This tool is designed to assist you in identifying the hazards associated with each of your activities. This tool is used in implementing the Hazard Analysis Subject Area , and may also be used to screen for hazards in ESH Standards 1.3.5 and 1.3.6. You use the tool by answering 17 nested sets of questions. If you answer NO to the highest level question in a set, the more detailed questions will not appear and there is no need to answer them.

Based on your answers to the questions, the tool calculates a "Hazard Rating" of 0, 1, 2, or 3. This rating relates to the potential severity (with 3 highest) of hazards in an operation before quantities, likelihood, or particular circumstances are taken into account. For example, if the operation involves known carcinogens the tool will return a Hazard Rating of at least 2. This means you should consider conducting futher analysis. However, if only minute quantities of the carcinogen are being used, the severity might be less.

The tool also provides links to applicable requirements associated with the identified hazards as well as training that may be required. Here too, judgment must be applied to determine whether the requirements and training apply to the actual operation.

The tool doesn't work - why?

There are several reasons why the tool could not be working:

JavaScript is disabled. This tool uses javaScript for just about everything, please make sure javaScript is enabled on your browser.

You are using an older browser. The tool has been tested on version 4 browsers only. Older browsers implement javaScript differently. Use older browsers at your own risk.

Why do certain characters in my Operation Title become funny?

Because all information is passed between pages in the URL without the assistance of a webserver, all character translation must be done via javaScript. To minimize the complexity of the tool, only spaces and alphanumeric are translated.

Why are certain links broken?

These links are to documents outside our control, and therefore the location of a document can change without our knowledge. Please report broken links to SBMS.

Why are the lists of chemicals not absolutely comprehensive?

There are many difficulties involved in listing chemicals, including the variety of names for a single chemical, and the absence of a single comprehensive categorization of chemicals. We have attempted to present the best lists possible, but they are not intended to be comprehensive.

How do I link to the tool?

Go here.

Where can I send comments regarding this tool?

Contact the SBMS Help Desk via email or phone x7267.
The comments will be reviewed by the Hazard Analysis SME , and by ESH specialists and web programmers as necessary.

Where can I find a description of the logic behind the determination of Hazard Rating and Requirements?

The logic documentation is currently being reworked. Please contact the the Hazard Analysis SME with any questions.

How do I get a question changed, added, or deleted?

Questions about making changes to the BNL version should be addressed to the Hazard Analysis SME.

Who can I contact for further help with this Tool?

The tool was originally written by Jason Cox and Nyree Pippin of LANL. It is now maintained by Courtney Patterson of BNL. Contact Jason or Nyree about obtaining the tool for use on a different site.

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