What is the first step in the ORM process?

Identifying hazards is the foundational step in the Operational Risk Management (ORM) process. Before any effective risk management can take place, it is essential to recognize and document the potential hazards that could impact the operation. This step involves analyzing the environment, activities, and equipment involved in the dive operation to uncover any factors that could pose a risk to safety.

By identifying hazards early on, divers and supervisors can then move forward to assess the extent and impact of those hazards, allowing for informed decision-making regarding the controls that need to be implemented. It creates a baseline understanding of what to look out for and prepares the team for subsequent steps in the ORM process, such as assessing the severity of the risks and making informed decisions about how to manage them.

The importance of this initial step cannot be overstated; if hazards are not identified, the entire risk management process is compromised, as subsequent actions will not adequately address unrecognized risks.