The ‘five steps’ approach requires that you:
Identify hazards
Assess the risks. Decide who might be harmed and how.
NB: You should ensure that the risk assessment takes account of employees who may be categorised as “Pregnant Workers and New Mothers” [1] and also takes account of employees who are “Young Workers” [2].
Control the risks. Evaluate the risks and decide on precautions (controls).
Record your findings. Take appropriate action.
Review the controls, as identified in your risk assessment and update the risk assessment as necessary.
A health and safety risk assessment template is provided. Alternatively, refer to the Health and Safety Executive [3] or Public Health Scotland – Healthy Working Lives [4] for alternative templates and guidance on conducting and recording a health and safety risk assessment.
Sources of information
- Protecting Pregnant Workers and New Mothers. Health and Safety Executive
- Young people at work. Health and Safety Executive
- Managing risk and risk assessment at work. Health and Safety Executive
- Risk Assessment. Healthy Working Lives, Public Health Scotland