Risk Assessments

A risk assessment is an important step in protecting your workers and your business, as well as complying with the law. They help you focus on the risks that really matter in your workplace - the ones with the potential to cause real harm. In many instances, straightforward measures can readily control risks, for example ensuring spillages are cleaned up promptly so people do not slip, or cupboard drawers are kept closed to ensure people do not trip. For most, that means simple, cheap and effective measures to ensure your most valuable asset - your workforce - is protected.

The law does not expect you to eliminate all risk, but you are required to protect people as far as 'reasonably practicable'

What Is A Risk Assessment?
A risk assessment is a careful examination of what, in your work, could cause harm to people, so that you can decide whether you have taken enough precautions or should do more to prevent harm.

You are legally required to assess the risks in your workplace so that you can put in place a plan to control the risks.

How To Undertake Risk Assessments
The simplest way to undertake the assessments is to use the "Five steps to Risk Assessments"

Step 1 - Identify The Hazards
Step 2 - Decide Who Might Be Harmed
Step 3 - Is More Needed To Control The Risks?
Step 4 - Record Your Findings
Step 5 - Review and Revise

You don't have to do the risk assessment this way. However, any system you do use must achieve the same outcomes as the "Five Steps" method.