SJA – secure job analysis explained simply
📌 Updated December 2025: 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.
A SJA (Safe Job Analysis) is a systematic review of a work operation to identify hazards, assess risks and determine measures before work begins. The goal is to reduce the likelihood of accidents, reduce the consequences if one occurs, and ensure a safe working environment for all involved.
SJA is used especially when:
the work involves risk
the conditions have changed
the task is not covered by existing plans or procedures
What is SJA (Safe Job Analysis)?
SJA stands for Safe Job Analysis and is a practical method within HSE to assess risk before a work operation is carried out. The analysis is carried out by those who will actually perform the work, and is based on their experience and knowledge.
A safe job analysis usually consists of:
review of the assignment
identification of hazards
risk assessment
determination of measures to reduce risk
agreement on safe implementation
This makes SJA an effective tool for both risk management and employee involvement.
Why are job analyses important in HSE work?
Carrying out risk assessments is not just good practice – it is a statutory requirement in Norwegian working life. Job analyses are a central part of systematic HSE work and contribute to preventing damage to people, the environment and assets.
A thorough SJA contributes to:
increased awareness of risk
better planning of work
fewer accidents and incidents
safer employees
documentation during audits and inspections
Statutory requirements in the Working Environment Act
The Working Environment Act (Section 3-1 and Section 4-1) requires employers to:
map hazards
assess risk
take necessary measures
The use of safe job analysis is a recognized method for meeting these requirements, especially for work that involves elevated risk.
Requirements in the Internal Control Regulations
The Internal Control Regulations (Section 5) require that businesses:
documents risk assessments
works systematically with HSE
involves employees in safety work
SJA meets these requirements by being both:
documented
practical
carried out by those who actually perform the work
Safe job analysis as part of comprehensive risk management
When used consistently as part of the HSE system, SJA helps build a strong safety culture. This provides:
reduced likelihood of dangerous situations
better compliance with HSE regulations
fewer deviations and unwanted incidents
increased safety and participation among employees
SJA is therefore not just a requirement, but a strategic tool for better operations.
Read more about our HSE/QS system here
Why use safe job analysis (SJA) in your company?
Whether you work in construction , industry, oil and gas or other risk-exposed businesses, systematic risk assessment is essential.
A secure job analysis helps you to:
identify hazards
consider consequences
implement measures
reduce risk before work starts
The result is fewer accidents, better control and safer workplaces.
SJA when working at height: what can you do to reduce risk?
Working at height is one of the most accident-prone activities in the construction industry. A thorough SJA is essential to uncover what you can do to reduce risk and mitigate the consequences if an incident occurs.
Examples of measures that are often identified in an SJA when working at height:
use of proper fall protection equipment
checking the substrate and attachment points
clear division of responsibilities
blocking off areas during work
assessment of weather and wind conditions
clear stopping criteria if conditions change
Safety according to the Building Owners' Regulations
The Building Owners' Regulations set clear requirements for safety on building and construction sites. The regulations apply to all construction projects and aim to ensure a fully safe working environment through good planning and risk management.
The client's responsibility for HSE work
According to Section 5 of the Building Owners' Regulations, the building owner is responsible for:
mapping and assessment of risk factors
documented HSE routines
facilitation for safe execution
preparation of SHA plan
When a work operation is not covered by the SHA plan, the SJA is an important supplementary measure .
When should an SJA be conducted?
A safe job analysis should be carried out when:
the work deviates from plans or procedures
the task is new or unknown
the partners have not worked together before
new or unfamiliar equipment is used
the conditions change (weather, time, order)
there have been previous accidents or incidents
The SJA should be carried out immediately before the work starts , so that the analysis is relevant to the actual conditions.
Who should participate in a safe job analysis?
Everyone who will participate in the work operation should also participate in the SJA. 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.
Do you need help with safe job analysis (SJA)?
We offer a digital solution that makes it easy to carry out SJA, document HSE and ensure quality in construction projects - directly on your mobile or tablet.
Reduce risk. Comply with legal requirements. Avoid paperwork.
🔗 Read more about our HSE/KS system
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FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
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DescriptionWhen the work involves risk and is not adequately covered by existing plans or procedures. text goes here
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Yes – indirectly through the Working Environment Act, the Internal Control Regulations and the Client Regulations.
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Description text goesSJA is an operational and practical risk analysis carried out just before the work starts. here
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Yes, in Build myproject there are templates and routines and forms for SJA work.
Do you need help with safe job analysis (SJA)?
We offer a digital solution that makes it easy to implement SJA, ensure HSE and quality in construction projects. Reduce risk and comply with requirements — without extra paperwork.
Read more about our HSE/QS system here