What is a Risk Assessment?

In very general terms, a risk assessment is where a task or action is studied to determine what hazards may occur, who could possibly be harmed and how they may be harmed, as well as what current or proposed steps are being and should be taken to reduce any risks. In addition the person or persons responsible for the actions are noted.

The UK Health and Safety Executive require all employers to carry out a risk assessment, and importantly, employers with 5 or more employees are required to record their risk assessments.

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Here is a very simple example risk assessment for cleaning an office :-

What are the hazards? Slips, trips and falls - Members of staff or visitors could slip on wet floors, trip over cables, etc.

What is being done already? Floors are only mopped after hours, and signage is used to warn other persons of wet floors. No trailing electrical cables are used.

Is any further action needed? Work areas are to be subjected to good housekeeping practices and no tripping hazards are to be left in walkways.

Who is responsible? All cleaning staff is responsible, and the supervisor is to inspect and continually monitor the works.

What risk is associated with the cleaning chemicals? Irritation or burns can be caused by the cleaning chemicals.

What is being done already? Company policy is that all substances are subject to a COSHH Assessment or preferably that only "non-toxic/not containing any irritants" gloves are worn and work areas are well ventilated.

Is any further action needed? All employees are fully trained in the work process and in the use of any substances that maybe harmful.

Who is responsible? The Company management and all cleaning staff and supervisors.

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This was a basic example of the risk and assessment process. Our Method Statement and Risk Assessment Pack contains some worked examples from very basic to more advanced assessments, as well as blank templates in MS Word format for easy editing.

Our Method Statement and Risk Assessment Pack also includes resources and information to help you complete your assessments.