Which statement correctly defines Hazard in the mishap framework?

• A. Mishap is an unplanned event that causes death, injury or serious damage to equipment.
• B. Near Mishap is an event where injury or damage was avoided by mere chance.
• C. Hazard is an unsafe act or condition that increases the probability of a Mishap.
• D. All of the above.

Answer: (C)

Hazard means an unsafe act or condition that increases the probability of a mishap. In the mishap framework, a mishap is an unplanned event causing death, injury, or serious equipment damage, while a near mishap is an event where injury or damage was avoided by chance. A hazard is the factor that raises the risk before a mishap occurs, not the event itself. The statement that defines hazard this way is the best because it pinpoints hazard as the condition or action that makes a mishap more likely. The other descriptions refer to the actual mishap or to near misses, so they don’t define hazard. For example, a damaged safety interlock on equipment is a hazard because it increases the chance of an unintended or unsafe release, which could lead to a mishap if not addressed.