Risk analyses in the intersection between patient and workplace safety: A case study of hazids in para-clinical supporting systems in specialized health care

BACKGROUND: The aim is to investigate the appropriateness of hazid for performing risk analyses in supporting systems in hospitals. METHODS: We used a case study approach for evaluating introduction of hazid for the first time in two different university hospital settings. The hazid was performed in a customized way according to the specific needs at the two sites. FINDINGS: In both settings studied, the hazid approach revealed several phenomena that were followed up in the ordinary quality improvement work. The results were widely acknowledged as valid as seen from the managerial level. The participants reported that they felt comfortable in the hazid process and were able to freely present their current concerns and perspectives on risks related to their daily work. CONCLUSION: Hazid is basically a meeting between competent workers who elaborate on their own risk picture. It is giving other types of information not gained through other often-used approaches. Specific risk factors can be described in real time as seen by people directly involved, thus circumventing the hierarchy in the organization. The process in itself can trigger improvement actions. APPLICATION TO PRACTICE: Hazid can be used for presenting a valid risk picture as seen from below in the organization.