An Introduction To Risk Assessments

Updated January 2025 

Employers have an important role in ensuring the safety and well-being of employees and the public by identifying and managing workplace risks. Risk assessments form a cornerstone of effective risk management, helping organisations uncover potential hazards and take preventative measures. 

This guide introduces you to the concept and process of risk assessments, explains the importance of conducting them, and provides a step-by-step approach to carrying them out effectively. 

What Is A Risk Assessment?

A risk assessment is a systematic process that examines potential hazards in the workplace to understand how they might cause harm or illness to employees, visitors or the public. Once hazards are identified, the assessment evaluates the likelihood and potential severity of each risk and recommends control measures to minimise or eliminate it.

In addition to promoting safety, risk assessments help businesses comply with legal requirements, enhance operational efficiency and boost employee confidence by promoting a safer work environment.

For businesses with five or more employees, conducting and documenting risk assessments is legally required. For smaller organisations, risk assessments are still highly recommended due to the benefits they provide in mitigating risks, preventing accidents and complying with best practices.

Related Reading: Risk Assessment Vs Method Statement: What Are The Key Differences?

Why Are Risk Assessments Important?

Risk assessments play an essential role in ensuring workplace safety by:

• Protecting Health and Safety: They help identify hazards that might otherwise go unnoticed, making it possible to address risks proactively.
  
• Fulfilling Legal Obligations: Most councils require documented risk assessments, especially for higher-risk activities, as part of workplace safety regulations.
  
• Improving Efficiency and Reducing Costs: By identifying and managing risks, companies can avoid costly accidents and improve operational continuity.
  
• Promoting a Positive Work Culture: Conducting risk assessments communicates a commitment to safety, helping to create a supportive and secure work environment.
  
• Demonstrating Due Diligence to Stakeholders: Investors, contractors, and clients view comprehensive risk management practices favourably, reinforcing the organisation’s reputation and reliability.

Key Components Of A Risk Assessment

To understand risk assessments, it’s helpful to break down their key components, which include hazards, risks and control measures.

Hazard

A hazard is anything with the potential to cause harm. Examples include physical dangers like machinery, hazardous substances and high-pressure systems, as well as psychological hazards like stress or harassment.

Risk

A risk is the likelihood that a hazard will cause harm and the potential impact of that harm. Risks vary depending on factors such as exposure frequency, hazard severity and affected individuals.

Control Measures

These are steps taken to minimise or eliminate risks. Control measures may involve equipment safety features, employee training, process adjustments and emergency planning.

A risk assessment should address each of these areas to identify hazards, assess risks and outline the best control measures to protect the workforce and workplace.

Related Reading: Who Needs Risk Assessment Training?

How To Conduct A Risk Assessment

The process of conducting a risk assessment involves five essential steps:

1. Identify The Hazards

Identifying hazards involves examining all areas of the workplace and all activities that could pose a risk. This step may include:

• Site Inspections: Walk through the workplace to observe any visible hazards such as faulty equipment, exposed wires, or slippery surfaces.
• Reviewing Incident Records: Analyse past accident reports and near-misses to uncover potential dangers and recurring issues.
• Checking Manufacturer Guidelines: Read equipment manuals and safety guidelines for information on handling, storage and maintenance requirements that might indicate potential hazards.
• Consulting Employees: Speak with staff about any safety concerns or near-misses they have experienced. Employees often have valuable insights since they are most familiar with their daily tasks and associated risks.

2. Decide Who Might Be Harmed And How

For each identified hazard, consider who might be at risk and how they could be harmed. This includes:

• Employees: Depending on job roles, employees might face unique risks, such as heavy lifting, working at height or handling chemicals.
• Visitors and Contractors: Consider risks that non-employees might encounter, including those unfamiliar with the premises.
• Vulnerable Individuals: Special attention should be given to vulnerable groups, such as pregnant employees, young workers and those with disabilities, who might face additional risks.

Understanding who might be affected by each hazard helps tailor control measures to protect all individuals in the workplace effectively.

3. Evaluate The Risks And Implement Control Measures

Once hazards are identified, evaluate the risks associated with each by considering two key factors:

• Likelihood of Occurrence: Assess how likely it is that a hazard will lead to harm.
• Severity of Harm: Determine the potential impact if the risk were to materialise.

Control measures should then be developed, following a hierarchy that prioritises elimination of the hazard where possible. If elimination isn’t feasible, other controls should be used, including:

• Substitution: Replace hazardous materials or methods with safer alternatives.
• Engineering Controls: Redesign equipment or processes to reduce exposure to hazards, such as machine guards or ventilation systems.
• Administrative Controls: Implement policies, training and procedures to limit risk exposure, such as rotation schedules and break times to reduce strain.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide protective clothing or equipment as a last line of defence against hazards.

4. Record Your Findings

Documenting the findings of a risk assessment is essential for legal compliance, transparency and future reference. The record should include:

• Identified Hazards: A list of all hazards detailing their potential impact and the individuals at risk.
• Risk Evaluation and Control Measures: A summary of each hazard’s risk level and the control measures implemented.
• Dates and Updates: The assessment date, review dates and any updates that occur after implementing new measures or changes in the workplace.

Use a structured risk assessment template to streamline this process and ensure that all relevant information is captured. Templates not only simplify the documentation but also make it easier to review and update the assessment as needed.

Related Reading: FREE Risk Assessment Example In Construction

5. Review And Update The Risk Assessment Regularly

A risk assessment is not a one-time task. Regular reviews are necessary to keep the document current and effective. Situations that may prompt a review include:

• Changes in Workplace Layout: Rearranging the workspace or adding new equipment can introduce new risks.
• Process or Procedure Modifications: Updates to work methods may alter hazard exposure.
• New Employees or Roles: Changes in the workforce may mean introducing new safety measures or retraining existing staff.
• Annual Reviews: Even if no significant changes occur, it’s best practice to review risk assessments at least once a year to ensure relevance.

Updating risk assessments when circumstances change ensures that control measures remain effective and that employees stay informed of any new risks.

Common Types Of Risk Assessments

While a general risk assessment is the most common, different types of assessments may be required depending on specific workplace activities or legal requirements. Some of these include:

• COSHH Assessments: These are required for handling hazardous substances, focusing on safe handling, storage, and disposal.
• Fire Risk Assessments: Evaluate fire hazards, emergency procedures and equipment for compliance with fire safety regulations.
• Manual Handling Assessments: Essential for activities involving heavy lifting or repetitive movements to prevent injuries.
• Display Screen Equipment (DSE) Assessments: Necessary for employees who spend extended periods at computers to address ergonomic and health risks.
• Environmental Impact Assessments: Examine potential environmental risks associated with workplace activities.

Each type of risk assessment has its own unique requirements and focuses on specific risk areas, helping organisations address diverse aspects of workplace safety.

Risk assessments are a proactive and strategic approach to safeguarding employees, the public and the workplace environment. By identifying hazards, assessing risks, and implementing effective control measures, businesses can create safer, healthier and more efficient workplaces. Regular reviews and updates to risk assessments ensure they remain relevant and effective, aligning with both regulatory standards and best practices.

A well-executed risk assessment minimises the likelihood of accidents and promotes a safety-first culture that benefits everyone involved.