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 RISK ASSESSMENTS

Regulation 3 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (1999) (MHSWR) makes it a duty for every employer to make a "suitable and sufficient" assessment of the risks to health and safety of employees and others who may be affected by the undertaking. The assessment should be recorded, usually in writing or on computer.
The purpose of the risk assessment is to eliminate, if possible, or reduce, the hazards, which occur in the workplace.

A HAZARD is something with the potential to cause harm.

The RISK is the likelihood that the harm could occur in the actual, circumstance of use.

The EXTENT OF THE RISK is the number of people who might be affected and the consequences.

The risk assessment should be carried out by a "Competent Person" (MHSWR Reg 6). A Competent Person is one who has:
  • A knowledge and understanding of the work involved;
  • An understanding of best practice;
  • An understanding of the principles of risk assessment;
  • An awareness of their own limitations; and
  • A willingness to supplement existing experience and knowledge.

The GMB stresses that the workforce and their representatives (Safety Reps) should be involved in the assessment if they are to be meaningful. In addition, Regulation 4A(1)(b) of the Safety Representatives and Safety Committee Regulations 1977 states that "Employers should consult, in good time, regarding the arrangements of appointing Competent Persons".

REMEMBER
RISK ASSESSMENTS ARE A STATUTORY DUTY -
HAVE THEY BEEN CARRIED OUT IN YOUR WORKPLACE?
For further details on the regulations, please contact your Regional Health & Safety Officer or Regional Organiser.
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Tel: 020 8202 8272
Fax: 020 8202 2893