Risk Assessments Flashcards
What are the basic principles of a RA?
Establish the hazard.
Establish the risk (chance of it happening).
How can it be removed or reduced?
How do we prove we have done this?
What does ALARP mean?
As Low As Reasonably Practicable.
We are mainly concerned with worker welfare, but what other risks can be measured?
Pollution/Environmental
Quality
Financial
Programme
What are the 5 steps to risk assessment?
Step 1: Identify hazards, i.e. anything that may cause harm.
Step 2: Decide who may be harmed, and how.
Step 3: Assess the risks and take action.
Step 4: Make a record of the findings.
Step 5: Review the risk assessment
Why is ‘reasonably practical’ important?
Mainly due to costs. It is possible to remove all risks but at significant cost, thus reasonably practical.
Who is the correct person to prepare a risk assessment?
A competent person.
What is the definition of competent?
A competent person is someone with the necessary skills, knowledge and experience to manage health and safety.
Is a risk assessment a legal requirement?
Yes. Although if you have fewer than 5 employees you don’t have to write anything down.
Who might be at risk?
Your workers, other workers, the general public.
How can we make sure control measures prevent accidents?
Make sure they are adequate and monitored regularly. Install a good safety awareness culture. The best control measure is to remove the hazard.
