Risk assessment and hazard identification

Section 1: Understanding Risk Assessments

A risk assessment is a systematic process of evaluating the potential risks involved in a projected activity or undertaking.
In layman’s terms, it indicates what could cause potential harm, the severity of that harm, and preventative measures to take.
It acts as the basis for health and safety decision making within any working environment.
They help identify hazards (anything that has the potential to cause harm) and risks (the likelihood that the hazard will cause harm).

Section 2: The Five Steps of Risk Assessment

Step one involves identifying the hazards associated with the activity - hazards may be biological, chemical, physical, environmental or ergonomic in nature.
Step two revolves around determining who might be harmed and how - this could be employees, visitors, contractors or members of the public.
Step three involves evaluating the risks and deciding on control measures - the level of risk is calculated by considering the likelihood of the hazard causing harm and the severity of the consequences.
Step four consists of recording findings and implementing control measures - realistic and reasonable control measures should be applied to either eliminate the risk or reduce it to the lowest level practicable.
Step five is about reviewing the risk assessment and updating it as necessary - they should be reviewed regularly to ensure they remain current and fit for purpose.

Section 3: Importance of Risk Assessments

Proper risk assessment helps prevent accidents and ill health.
It can assist in establishing healthier and safer working conditions.
It influences the design and implementation of safe systems of work.
It aids in the responsible use, storage and maintenance of any machinery, equipment or substances used within the workspace.

Section 4: Legal Requirements

Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (1999) risk assessments must be carried out.
Failure to meet these requirements can result in financial penalties or imprisonment for the employer.

Section 5: Hazard vs Risk

A hazard represents a situation or substance that has the potential to cause harm.
A risk, however, describes the probability that a person will be harmed if exposed to a hazard. The risk is commonly evaluated by considering the severity of the potential outcome and the likelihood of the occurrence.