In this video, we’ll be diving into Element 3.4, and we’ll be exploring the below:
Meaning of hazard, risk, risk profiling and risk assessment
• Risk profiling: What is involved? Who should be involved? The risk profiling process
• Purpose of risk assessment and the ‘suitable and sufficient’ standard it needs to reach
(see HSG65: ‘Managing for health and safety’)
• A general approach to risk assessment (5 steps):
> identify hazards:
– sources and form of harm; sources of information to consult; use of task analysis, legislation,
manufacturers’ information, incident data, guidance
> identify people at risk:
– including workers, operators, maintenance staff, cleaners, contractors, visitors, public
> evaluate risk (taking account of what you already do) and decide if you need to do more:
– likelihood of harm and probable severity
– possible acute and chronic health effects
– risk rating
– principles to consider when controlling risk (section 3.10.1 ILO-OSH 2001 – ‘Guidelines on
occupational safety and health management systems’)
– practical application of the principles – applying the general hierarchy of control (clause 8.1.2 of ISO
45001:2018)
– application based on prioritisation of risk
– use of guidance; sources and examples of legislation
– applying controls to specified hazards
– residual risk; acceptable/tolerable risk levels
– distinction between priorities and timescales
> record significant findings
> reasons for review
• Application of risk assessment for specific types of risk and special cases:
> examples of when they are required, including fire, DSE, manual handling, hazardous substances, noise
> why specific risk assessment methods are used for certain risks – to enable proper, systematic consideration
of all relevant issues that contribute to the risk
> special case applications to young people, expectant and nursing mothers; also consideration of disabled
workers and lone workers.
