Workplace Risk Assessment Guide: Step-by-Step OSH Process
This workplace risk assessment guide explains how to identify hazards, understand exposure, examine existing controls, evaluate risk and determine whether further action is needed.
What Is a Workplace Risk Assessment?
A workplace risk assessment is a structured examination of hazards and the risk associated with work activities. It supports decisions about whether existing controls are adequate and what additional measures may be required.
The level of detail should reflect the nature and complexity of the work rather than forcing every hazard into the same assessment format.
Define the Work Being Assessed
Establish the activity, location, equipment, people and operating conditions within the assessment scope. Consider routine, non-routine and reasonably foreseeable situations relevant to the work.
Identify Hazards
Examine what could cause harm. Use observations, worker input, equipment information, incident history and other relevant evidence rather than relying on one source.
Identify Who May Be Affected
Consider workers, contractors, visitors and other people who could be exposed. Exposure may vary according to task, location, duration and operating conditions.
Review Existing Controls
Determine what controls are already in place and whether they are implemented and functioning as intended. A documented control should not be assumed effective without suitable evidence.
Evaluate Risk
Consider the potential consequences and the likelihood or conditions under which harm could occur. Use a risk matrix where appropriate, but do not allow a score to replace informed professional judgment.
Determine Additional Controls
If existing controls are insufficient, identify further measures. Use the hierarchy of controls to consider stronger options before relying primarily on procedures or personal protective equipment.
Record and Assign Actions
Document significant findings as appropriate to the workplace and applicable requirements. Define required actions, responsible people, priorities and suitable completion expectations.
Review the Risk Assessment
Review assessments when work changes, new information becomes available, controls fail, incidents occur or other evidence indicates that the assessment may no longer reflect actual conditions.
Workplace Risk Assessment Process
Identify
Identify hazards and potentially exposed people.
Evaluate
Examine controls and evaluate relevant risk.
Control
Determine and implement additional measures where required.
Review
Monitor conditions and update the assessment when necessary.
Use Risk Assessment to Support Decisions
A workplace risk assessment should help people understand hazards and make appropriate control decisions. Keep the assessment connected to actual work, involve relevant people and review whether controls function in practice.
