What is the first step in the Risk Management (RM) process?

Identifying hazards is the foundational step in the Risk Management (RM) process. This initial phase is crucial because it involves recognizing anything that could potentially cause harm or adverse outcomes during operations. By identifying hazards, personnel can gain a comprehensive understanding of what risks are present in an environment, which is essential for any further action in the RM process.

Once hazards are identified, the following steps can take place, such as assessing the risks associated with those hazards and implementing control measures to mitigate them. However, without the identification of hazards, the subsequent steps cannot be effectively executed, as the entire process of risk management depends on a clear understanding of the potential dangers involved. Therefore, identifying hazards is the critical starting point in ensuring a safe operational environment.