Quick Scoop

Hazard is something that can cause harm. Risk is the chance that the harm will actually happen, and how serious it could be.

Simple meaning

• Hazard: the source of danger, like a wet floor, fire, electricity, or chemicals.
• Risk: the likelihood and severity of harm from that hazard, like how likely someone is to slip on the wet floor and how badly they could get hurt.

Easy example

• Hazard: A knife.
• Risk: Cutting yourself while using it carelessly.

One-line difference

• Hazard = what can cause harm.
• Risk = how likely harm is, and how bad it could be.

In safety terms

Safety workers first identify the hazard, then assess the risk, then put controls in place to reduce it.

Bottom line: A hazard is the danger itself; risk is the chance and impact of that danger becoming real.