Risk assessment in the workplace
In Short
Risk assessment is a part of the workplace health and safety plan.
The purpose of the assessment is to identify risk factors in the work environment and evaluate their potential impact on the safety and well-being of employees.
Applies to all operations
A risk assessment must be carried out for all business activities. This applies whether the work is stationary or mobile, whether it involves contractors or employment agency workers. It must also be done regardless of the number of employees — from one and up.
Conducting a risk assessment
The first step is to identify and assess risk factors in the work environment by systematically reviewing the workplace and all tasks carried out there. The goal is to identify anything that may cause accidents, incidents, injuries, strain, discomfort, or other risks to the safety, health, and well-being of employees — either in the short or long term.
It is essential that the assessment covers all aspects of the company’s operations and the entire work environment. It is helpful to use the main aspects of occupational safety and health as a framework, along with any specific factors relevant to the workplace.
There are various methods available for conducting a risk assessment. Different supporting documents for conducting a risk assessment can be used to support the process, such as workplace environment indicators, checklists, and interactive risk assessment tools.
After the analysis, the identified risk factors must be compiled into a written risk assessment.
More on how to carry out a risk assessment.
Results and next steps
Once the risk assessment is complete, the employer must present the findings to employees and implement the necessary actions outlined in the assessment. These actions are included in the written health protection and risk prevention plan.
Service provider
Administration of Occupational Safety and Health