What is SJA? Secure Job Analysis Explained Simply
📌 Updated February 2026: This article has been updated with new information about how safe job analysis (SJA) contributes to better non-conformity management, risk reduction and control in construction projects.
Briefly explained:
A SJA (Safe Job Analysis) is a structured risk assessment that is carried out before a specific work task begins. The purpose is to identify hazards, assess risk and determine measures that ensure the safe performance of the work.
SJA is particularly used in work that involves risk, where conditions have changed, or when the task is not covered by existing plans and procedures. The method is widely used in construction projects, industry, and other risk-prone industries.
What does SJA (Safe Job Analysis) mean?
SJA stands for safe job analysis and is a practical method within HSE work. The analysis is carried out by those who will actually perform the work, based on their experience, competence and knowledge of the task.
A safe job analysis usually consists of:
review of the assignment
identification of possible hazards
risk assessment
determination of measures to reduce risk
agreement on how the work should be carried out safely
This makes SJA an effective tool for both risk management and employee involvement.
When is SJA required in the workplace?
A safe job analysis should be carried out when:
the work involves increased risk
the task is new or little known
the work deviates from established plans or routines
new or unfamiliar equipment is used
the conditions change, such as weather, time, or order
there have been previous accidents or near misses
The SJA is usually carried out just before work starts , so that the analysis is based on the actual conditions at the workplace.
Is SJA required by law in Norway?
The Working Environment Act requires employers to:
map hazards
assess risk
take necessary measures
Although the law does not always mention SJA directly, safe job analysis is a recognized method for meeting the requirements of the Working Environment Act and the Internal Control Regulations – especially for work that involves increased risk.
SJA is therefore often used as a documented risk assessment during inspections, audits and internal HSE follow-up.
Safe job analysis is often used as a practical measure within the framework of an HSE plan and a SHA plan in construction projects.
🔗 Read more about the difference between HSE plans and SHA plans in construction
Why are job analyses important in HSE work?
Job analyses are a central part of systematic HSE work. A thorough job analysis contributes to:
increased awareness of risk
better planning of work tasks
fewer accidents and unwanted incidents
safer employees
better documentation and traceability
When job analyses are conducted regularly and involve those who actually perform the work, it also contributes to a stronger safety culture in the business.
Example of safe job analysis when working at height
Working at height is among the most accident-prone activities in the construction industry. A safe job analysis can reveal risks associated with both equipment, surroundings and working methods.
Measures that are often identified in an SJA when working at height can be:
use of proper fall protection equipment
checking the substrate and attachment points
clear division of responsibilities and roles
blocking off areas during work
assessment of weather and wind conditions
clear stopping criteria if conditions change
Such an analysis helps reduce both the probability and consequences of accidents.
Who should participate in a Safe Job Analysis (SJA)?
Everyone who will participate in the work operation should also participate in the safe job analysis. This ensures:
common understanding of risk
better compliance with measures
higher quality of analysis
The leader of the SJA should have the necessary expertise, and at least two participants should know the task well.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
-
SJA is required when work involves risks that are not adequately covered by existing plans or routines.
-
An SJA is a type of risk analysis, but is more practical and linked to a specific work task.
-
The employer is responsible for ensuring that risk assessments are carried out, but the analysis should be carried out together with those who will be performing the work.
Further follow-up of safe job analysis
If you would like to read more about how safe job analysis can be documented and followed up as part of a comprehensive HSE and QS work, you can read more about this here: