Risk Assessment Services
What is a risk assessment ?
It is a method for identifying hazards and risk factors that have the potential to cause harm. Firstly all hazards are identified. Secondly the risk associated with the hazard is evaluated into high, medium or low risk. Finally and most importanlty the appropiate ways to elimate the hazard or suitable control measures are put in place.
A risk assessment invloves a thorough look at your workplace. It identifes tasks, situations, processes, etc. that may cause harm, particularly to people.
So what do we mean when we talk about hazards, risks and control measures?
Hazard- anything that has the potential to cause harm for example chemicals, fire, working alone, manual handling tasks.
Risk- the likelihood that a person may be harmed because of this hazard.
Control Measures- any actions that can be taken to reduce exposure to the hazard. A simple exampe of a control measure would be the secure guarding of moving parts of machinery eliminating the potential for contact.
Are Risk Assessments important?
Yes, Risk assessments are very important. Under section 19 of the Safety health and Welfare at work Act 2005 employers are required to ensure that a competent person assess all hazards and risks within the workplace. Risk assessments form an huge part of a health and safety management plan. They help to:
- Create awareness of hazards and risks.
- Identify who is at risk (e.g., employees, cleaners, visitors, contractors, the public, etc.).
- Determine what control measures are required.
- Determine if existing control measures are adequate or if more should be done.
- Prevent injuries or illnesses, especially when done at the design or planning stage.
- Prioritize hazards and control measures.
- Meet legal requirements where applicable.
How can we help?
A high quality Risk Assessment Service will be provided. Communication is key. Your company representative/s will be involved througout the process. For example, involving your work team ensures the quality and the validity of the Risk Assessment. It also helps raise awareness around Health and Safety in your work environment. On completion of the assessment, we will write a report which will contain the following
- All hazards present in the workplace.
- Identification of those at risk from the hazards including employee’s visitors etc.
- The level of risk associated with the hazards.
- Suitable control measures to be put in place.
- Record the findings.