How to Write a Risk Assessment: Step-by-Step Guide

Writing a risk assessment doesn't have to be complicated. Follow this step-by-step guide to create thorough, compliant risk assessments for your trade work.

Step 1: Identify the Hazards

Walk through the job mentally (or physically if possible) and identify everything that could cause harm:

• Physical hazards — working at height, moving machinery, heavy loads

• Chemical hazards — dust, fumes, solvents, adhesives

• Electrical hazards — live wiring, portable equipment, overhead lines

• Environmental hazards — weather, noise, confined spaces

• Manual handling — lifting, carrying, repetitive movements

Tips for Identifying Hazards

• Check manufacturer instructions for equipment

• Review accident and near-miss records

• Consult with workers who'll be doing the job

• Check HSE guidance for your trade

Step 2: Decide Who Might Be Harmed

Consider everyone who could be affected:

• Your employees and subcontractors

• Other workers on site

• Members of the public

• Residents or building occupants

• Visitors to the site

Pay special attention to vulnerable groups — young workers, pregnant women, those with disabilities.

Step 3: Evaluate the Risks

For each hazard, assess:

• Likelihood — how likely is it that harm will occur? (1-5 scale)

• Severity — how serious would the harm be? (1-5 scale)

• Risk rating — likelihood × severity

| Risk Score | Rating | Action Required | |-----------|--------|----------------| | 1-4 | Low | Monitor and review | | 5-9 | Medium | Reduce risk where possible | | 10-15 | High | Take immediate action | | 16-25 | Very High | Do not proceed until controlled |

Step 4: Record Your Control Measures

For each risk, document what controls you'll put in place. Follow the hierarchy of controls:

1. Eliminate — remove the hazard entirely

2. Substitute — replace with something less dangerous

3. Engineering controls — physical barriers, ventilation

4. Administrative controls — procedures, training, signage

5. PPE — personal protective equipment (last resort)

Step 5: Review and Update

Your risk assessment should be a living document:

• Review before each new job

• Update when conditions change

• Revisit after any incidents

• Get input from your team

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