How to Conduct a Risk Assessment: A Step-by-Step Guide

What is a Risk Assessment?

A risk assessment is a systematic process of evaluating the potential risks involved in a projected activity or undertaking. In occupational health and safety (OHS), it is a critical tool for preventing workplace accidents and illnesses.

Why Risk Assessment Matters

Every year, millions of workers are injured on the job. A proper risk assessment can significantly reduce the likelihood of workplace accidents by:

• Identifying hazards before they cause harm
• Evaluating the likelihood and severity of potential incidents
• Implementing effective control measures
• Meeting legal and regulatory requirements

The 5 Steps of Risk Assessment

Step 1: Identify the Hazards

The first step is to identify all potential hazards in the workplace. Common workplace hazards include:

• Physical hazards: Slips, trips, falls, noise, vibration
• Chemical hazards: Exposure to toxic substances, gases, dust
• Biological hazards: Bacteria, viruses, mold
• Ergonomic hazards: Repetitive strain, poor posture
• Psychosocial hazards: Stress, workplace violence, burnout

Walk through the workplace, review incident reports, and consult with workers who perform the tasks regularly. They often have the most valuable insight into day-to-day risks.

Step 2: Determine Who Might Be Harmed

Consider who might be affected by each identified hazard. This includes:

• Employees working directly with the hazard
• Other workers in the vicinity
• Contractors and visitors
• Members of the public

Some groups may be at higher risk, such as new employees, young workers, expectant mothers, or those with disabilities.

Step 3: Evaluate the Risks

For each identified hazard, evaluate:

• Likelihood: How likely is it that harm will occur?
• Severity: How serious would the resulting harm be?
• Risk Level: Combine likelihood and severity to determine the overall risk level

The Fine-Kinney method is widely used for this quantitative evaluation:

Risk = Probability × Frequency × Consequence

Risk scores then fall into categories:

• < 20: Acceptable risk
• 20–70: Possible risk (attention required)
• 70–200: Medium risk (corrective action needed)
• 200–400: High risk (urgent action needed)
• > 400: Very high risk (stop work)

Step 4: Implement Control Measures

Use the hierarchy of controls to manage risks:

1. Elimination: Remove the hazard entirely
2. Substitution: Replace the hazard with something safer
3. Engineering controls: Isolate people from the hazard
4. Administrative controls: Change the way people work
5. PPE: Protect workers with personal protective equipment (last resort)

Always aim for the highest level of control that is reasonably practicable.

Step 5: Review and Update

Risk assessments are not a one-time activity. Review them:

• Regularly (at least annually)
• After any significant changes in the workplace
• Following an accident or near-miss
• When new information becomes available

Using Technology for Risk Assessments

Modern AI-powered tools like FindRisk can dramatically streamline the risk assessment process:

• AI-generated templates: Get industry-specific checklists in seconds
• Mobile data collection: Complete assessments directly on-site
• Photo markup: Annotate hazards on photos in real time
• Automated reports: Generate professional PDF reports instantly
• Corrective action tracking: Follow up on implemented controls

Conclusion

A thorough risk assessment is the foundation of effective workplace safety management. By following these five steps and leveraging modern technology, you can create a safer workplace for everyone—while meeting your legal obligations.

Ready to simplify your risk assessments? Download FindRisk and conduct your first AI-powered assessment today.