Application of Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, and Control (HIRAC) in Academic Office Workspaces

Abstract

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) is essential for creating a safe, healthy, and productive work environment, including academic offices. However, occupational safety and health (OSH) practices in higher education administrative workplaces remain limited, and workplace hazards are often underestimated. This study aimed to identify workplace hazards, assess occupational risks, and propose appropriate control measures in the faculty cubicle area at President University using the Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, and Control (HIRAC) method. A descriptive observational design was applied following ISO 45001:2018. Data were collected through direct observation and documentation, and risk levels were determined using a likelihood–severity matrix. The assessment identified 21 hazard scenarios involving safety, physical, ergonomic, biological, and psychosocial hazards. Electrical hazards, particularly damaged outlets and excessive use of extension cords, presented the highest risk (risk value = 16) because of their potential to cause electric shock, short circuits, and fire. Other notable hazards included damaged chairs, cluttered workspaces, improper fire extinguisher placement, and inadequate ventilation. Control measures developed according to the hierarchy of controls reduced the average calculated risk value from 9.0 to 3.3, indicating improved workplace risk management. These findings demonstrate that HIRAC provides a practical and systematic approach for identifying workplace hazards, prioritizing risks, and supporting effective risk control in academic office environments. The study was limited to a single workspace and a relatively short observation period.