Sharing information in a JHA is one way to work on safety.

“Before starting on a job, I can see in my mind's eye how it's going to go: step 1, step 2, etc.”, says marine superintendent Mike Mayer. “Then I have to convey those images to the guys I work with.

When they know exactly what's expected of them, you can prevent unpleasant surprises.”
However, many supervisors apparently don't share with their staff how they envision approaching the job. At a special JHA training course in the Coast Guard project in Qatar, they were taught how critical it is for safety to fill out a JHA, because it forces you to describe each and every step. Then, the JHA serves as a starting point for discussion in the prestart meeting. According to Mike, “Amid our habit of ‘eat-sleep-work’, we run the risk of getting too used to our routine. This training course brings you back to planet earth and reminds you to pay attention at all times!”