How to Conduct a Workplace Risk Assessment in 5 Steps

A workplace risk assessment is not just a box-ticking task; it’s a legal requirement under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and is essential for a safe, productive environment. 

Whether you run a small office or a large industrial facility, following a clear risk assessment process helps prevent accidents, lower costs, and protect your people. 

At Sysco Environmental, we assist UK employers across various industries in meeting HSE guidelines and ensuring compliance. Here’s our five-step approach to carrying out an effective workplace risk assessment. 

Step 1 - Identify Hazards 

The first step is to recognise anything that could cause harm. Hazards can take many forms: 

• Physical: Slips, trips, falls, unguarded machinery. 
• Chemical: Cleaning products, paints, industrial chemicals (see COSHH regulations). 
• Biological: Bacteria, mould, viruses in the workplace.
• Ergonomic: Poor workstation setup, repetitive strain risks.
• Psychosocial: Work-related stress, harassment, excessive workload. 

Tip: Walk through your workplace, talk to staff, review accident records, and consider non-routine activities like maintenance or cleaning. 

Step 2 - Decide Who Might Be Harmed and How 

Identify at-risk groups, such as: 

• Employees (including temporary and part-time staff) 
• Contractors and visitors 
• Vulnerable individuals (pregnant workers, young people, those with disabilities) 

Being specific helps you create targeted control measures.

Step 3 - Evaluate Risks and Decide on Controls 

Assess the likelihood and severity of harm for each hazard. Then, choose the most effective way to control the risk using the hierarchy of control: 

1. Eliminate the hazard entirely. 

2. Substitute with something safer. 

3. Use engineering controls (e.g., guards, barriers). 

4. Implement administrative controls (training, supervision). 

5. Provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as a last resort. 

Remember that the law requires you to do what is reasonably practical to lower risk. 

Step 4 - Record Your Findings and Implement Them 

If you have five or more employees, you must keep a written record of your risk assessment. 

Include: 

• Identified hazards 
• People at risk 
• Existing control measures 
• Additional actions required 
• Who is responsible and by when 

Use this document to assign tasks and track progress. 

Step 5 - Review and Update Regularly 

Risk assessments are not just one-time documents. Review them: 

• At least once a year 
• After an accident or near miss 
• When introducing new equipment, processes, or substances 
• When the workplace layout changes 

A dynamic risk assessment keeps your workplace safe and compliant with HSE standards. 

Need Expert Help With Your Risk Assessment? 

At Sysco Environmental, our qualified consultants conduct thorough workplace risk assessments in line with UK health and safety law. We help you identify hazards, implement effective controls, and maintain compliance, saving you time, money, and stress.