Definitions for Severity of Harm

The potential severity of harm - When establishing the potential severity of harm, information about the relevant work activity should be considered, together with the possible physical harm n0ot so harmful. (eg. less than medical treatment and no financial losses).

1. Slightly harmful (e.g. superficial injuries; minor cuts and bruises; eye irritation from dust; nuisance and irritation; ill-health leading to temporary discomfort). Medical treatment was required or/and losses below R250 000.
2. Harmful (e.g. lacerations; burns; concussion; serious sprains; minor fractures; dermatitis; asthma; work-related upper limb disorders; ill-health). An average lost time occurred or financial losses between R250 000 and R500 000.
3. Very harmful (e.g. fractures, deafness, limb disorders, multiple injuries, long-term ill health, poisoning). Major injury with financial losses between R500 000 and R1 000 000.
4. Extremely harmful (e.g. amputations; fatal injuries; occupational cancer; other severely life-shortening diseases; acute fatal diseases). Resulting in a fatality or permanent disability and financial losses exceeding R1 000 000.

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Example of a Risk Assessment Form