Risk Assessment Module 5

Definitions Hazard Risk Risk assessment Something with the potential to cause harm The likelihood of harm occurring Calculation and reduction of risk.

Five steps to risk assessment ! Identification of hazards, calculation of risk and reduction of risk PRINCIPLES OF RISK ASSESSMENT Identify hazards 1 Identify those who may be harmed 2 Evaluate risk by considering existing precautions 3 Record the findings 4 Review and revise as necessary. 5

Identify the hazards Step 1 Fire Noise Electricity Machinery Poor lighting Manual handling Working at height Slips and trips High or low temperatures Dust, fumes and poor ventilation Chemicals.

Decide who might be harmed and how Step 2 Employees Young persons Cleaners Contractors Disabled people Pregnant women Inexperienced staff Lone workers Visitors

? Evaluate the risk Step 3 reduce the risk comply with the law Are existing precautions and control measures satisfactory? If not… can they be improved? Do they: reduce the risk comply with the law represent good practice?

? Evaluate the risk Step 3a received training received information Are existing precautions and control measures satisfactory? If not… can they be improved? Have the staff: received training received information received procedures been advised about risk assessments been provided with PPE?

Hierarchy of control Step 3a Elimination Substitution Enclosure Isolation

Hierarchy of control Step 3a Ventilation Time control Training Personal protective equipment Welfare/first aid

! Record the findings Step 4 A legal requirement if more than five employees

Review and revise if necessary Step 5 Review Regularly If changes in the workplace occur After an accident or near miss If new information becomes known.