Which statement best defines Hazard Analysis and its use in assistive technology device design?

• A. An informal review of marketing risks after design.
• B. A systematic examination of potential hazards, associated risks, and mitigation strategies—used to identify risks early and provide controls throughout design.
• C. A checklist used for security clearance after production.
• D. A market analysis to forecast demand.

Answer: (B)

Hazard analysis in assistive technology design focuses on systematically identifying potential hazards, evaluating the associated risks, and planning mitigation strategies early in the product lifecycle and continuing through development. This approach prevents problems by uncovering risks during design, guiding decisions to incorporate controls, and tracking them as the device evolves. The best choice captures that ongoing, design‑level focus on identifying hazards and managing risk with appropriate controls. The other options describe post‑design marketing reviews, post‑production security checks, or market demand analysis, none of which address identifying hazards and reducing risk during the design process.