Top 7 Types of Risk Assessments Every Workplace Should Conduct
π§ Introduction
Risk assessment is the foundation of effective workplace safety. It allows organizations to identify potential hazards, evaluate their severity, and implement appropriate control measures before incidents occur. Whether you’re managing a factory, a construction site, or an office building, conducting the right types of risk assessments is essential for protecting workers and complying with legal standards.
In this comprehensive guide, weβll explore the top 7 types of risk assessments every workplace should conduct in 2025, with real-world examples and actionable insights for safety officers and managers.
π What is a Risk Assessment?
A risk assessment is a systematic process of identifying hazards, analyzing risks associated with those hazards, and determining appropriate ways to eliminate or control them. It is a legal requirement in most countries and a best practice in all industries.
Purpose:
- Protect workers from harm
- Comply with safety laws (e.g., OSHA, ISO 45001)
- Reduce liability and insurance costs
- Improve overall productivity and morale
π 7 Essential Types of Workplace Risk Assessments
Letβs break down the most important types of risk assessments that every organization should consider.
π 1. General Risk Assessment
Purpose: To identify hazards in the workplace and assess the risks under normal working conditions.
Example: In an office setting, this might include identifying electrical hazards, poor ergonomics, or blocked fire exits.
Key Elements:
- Inspect the entire workplace
- Consult employees
- Record findings and control measures
π This is the most commonly used risk assessment method and is legally required in many regions.
π 2. Fire Risk Assessment
Purpose: To evaluate fire hazards, determine fire protection measures, and ensure emergency preparedness.
Example: In a warehouse, assessing flammable storage areas, fire extinguisher availability, and escape routes.
Checklist:
- Identify potential sources of ignition
- Evaluate the people at risk
- Review fire detection and suppression systems
- Conduct fire drills and training
π External Resource: OSHA Fire Safety
π 3. Manual Handling Risk Assessment
Purpose: To prevent musculoskeletal injuries from lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling loads.
Example: In a logistics company, assessing how packages are lifted, the weight limit, and the use of mechanical aids.
Assessment Factors:
- Task (repetition, duration, movement)
- Load (size, shape, stability)
- Environment (space, lighting, floor surface)
- Individual capabilities (age, medical condition)
β Tip: Use training and lifting aids to reduce risk.
π 4. COSHH (Chemical) Risk Assessment
Purpose: To assess risks from exposure to hazardous substances under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations.
Example: In a laboratory, assessing chemical storage, use of fume hoods, and PPE for handling acids.
Steps:
- Identify hazardous substances
- Evaluate routes of exposure (inhalation, skin contact)
- Check safety data sheets (SDS)
- Control measures: ventilation, labeling, PPE
π 5. Working at Height Risk Assessment
Purpose: To evaluate risks associated with any work performed above ground level where a fall could result in injury.
Example: In construction, evaluating the use of scaffolds, ladders, and roof work.
Hazards:
- Falls from unprotected edges
- Falling objects
- Poor scaffold condition
Controls:
- Guardrails, harnesses, toeboards
- Ladder inspections
- Permit to Work for high-risk tasks
π 6. Display Screen Equipment (DSE) Assessment
Purpose: To prevent health issues from prolonged computer use, such as eye strain, back pain, and repetitive strain injuries.
Example: In a call center, assessing workstation ergonomics for each operator.
Assessment Includes:
- Monitor height and distance
- Chair and desk setup
- Keyboard and mouse position
- Break schedules and lighting
β Conduct DSE assessments for remote workers too.
π 7. Task-Based Risk Assessment (TBRA)
Purpose: To assess specific jobs or activities that carry high risk or complexity.
Example: Welding inside a confined space or operating heavy machinery.
Steps:
- Break down the job into steps
- Identify hazards at each stage
- Assign risk ratings using a risk matrix
- Define controls for each step
π Use TBRA for non-routine work and maintenance operations.
π Bonus: Dynamic Risk Assessment
Used in fast-changing environments (e.g., emergency response), where hazards must be assessed in real-time before or during a task.
Example: A firefighter deciding whether it’s safe to enter a burning building.
π§ Real-World Case Study
A chemical plant in Gujarat conducted a COSHH assessment and discovered several employees were exposed to fumes without proper PPE. The company introduced ventilation systems and mandatory training. Within 3 months, respiratory complaints dropped by 70%, and the company passed its ISO 45001 audit.
π Sample Risk Matrix (Severity Γ Likelihood)
| Likelihood | Minor | Major | Critical |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rare | Low | Low | Medium |
| Possible | Low | Medium | High |
| Likely | Medium | High | High |
Use this matrix to prioritize corrective actions in all risk assessments.
β FAQ: Types of Risk Assessments
Q1. Is it necessary to conduct all 7 types in every workplace?
No, only the types relevant to your operations are required. For example, DSE is crucial in offices, while COSHH applies to labs and plants.
Q2. Who should carry out risk assessments?
Competent personsβtypically trained safety officers, supervisors, or external consultants.
Q3. How often should risk assessments be reviewed?
At least annually or whenever there are changes in equipment, process, personnel, or after an incident.
Q4. Is it mandatory to record all risk assessments?
Yes, especially if you have 5 or more employees. Written records are essential for legal and audit purposes.
Q5. Can digital tools help with assessments?
Absolutely. Platforms like EcoOnline, iAuditor, or SafetyCulture streamline risk documentation and analysis.
β Final Thoughts
Understanding the types of risk assessments that apply to your workplace is critical for legal compliance and protecting your team. By proactively identifying and mitigating risks, you not only prevent accidents but also foster a culture where safety is embedded into every task.
βWhat you donβt assess, you canβt control.β
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