How to identify and manage health and safety risks

Author: Andrea Oates

Summary

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• Be aware of the general duty on employers to carry out risk assessments in relation to their employees and others who may be affected by their activities.
• Be aware that there are also specific requirements in relation to particular hazards and in relation to the health and safety of particular groups of workers.
• Ensure that anyone carrying out risk assessments on behalf of the organisation has sufficient training and knowledge to do so.
• Consult managers, supervisors, specialists and employees and their representatives about the risks involved in their work and the measures necessary to prevent or control them.
• Ensure that the risk assessment covers any risks to remote workers.
• When identifying the hazards, address what actually happens in the workplace and not only what should happen.
• Assess the risks by deciding who might be harmed and how.
• Apply the principles of prevention when implementing measures to control the risks identified.
• Record the findings of the risk assessment.
• Prepare a written plan of action identifying who will take action and by when.
• Ensure that the risk assessment is reviewed as appropriate.