A risk is the likelihood of harm occurring in response to a hazard such as death, injury, or illness. Within the workplace, risks need to be appropriately managed to eliminate such, or if not reasonably practicable to minimise the risk as is reasonably possible/practicable.
By conducting regular risk assessments within the workplace, a process of hazard management is being implemented to control the risks posed to health and safety within the workplace.
Risk Assessments involves:
- Review – Identifying the hazard(s).
- Assessment – Assessing the risk or potential hazards.
- Development of Policy and Practice – Implementing measures to control the risk.
Record Keeping
An integral part of risk assessment is the ongoing and detailed documentation of risk assessment process, managing the effectiveness of implemented policy and practice through review. Detailed and organised record keeping increases the validity of claims surrounding workplace related injury and illness, whilst ensuring companies remain compliant in accordance with legislation as they demonstrate efforts to manage workplace risk as is reasonably practicable, in reasonably practicable ways.
The review of control measures is often forgotten within the risk assessment process, although crucial in ensuring that Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) legislation remains to be complied with and managed effectively. Call us today on 1800 577 515 and speak with our team of professionals for guidance on how to create and maintain a WHS compliant workplace.
