When it comes to implementing management systems, managing risks and nonconformities is often a major priority. That’s where risk assessments come in. Risk assessment is essential for protecting businesses, employees, and stakeholders from potential harm. It involves a thorough examination of hazards to determine if sufficient precautions are in place or if further action is needed. The goal of a risk assessment is to ensure that proper safety measures are implemented to prevent injuries, minimize nonconformities, and ensure compliance.

 

Risk assessment is a key part of risk analysis, helping organizations identify and evaluate potential threats that could impact their operations or the public. It enables informed decision-making on risk management and tolerance while uncovering unexpected events that could have severe consequences.

 

We’ve often discussed the importance of risk mitigation and tools like CAPA in our articles, as the effective management of risks can result in benefits that range from greater efficiency to lower costs. That’s why for this article, we’re going to discuss how you can conduct thorough risk assessments and utilize them for your organization’s improvement and compliance.

 

 

Risk Assessment Steps

 

Identify Hazards

 

This step involves identifying potential risks that could harm people, property, or the environment to prevent or prepare for such events. Natural disasters are common examples, as are incidents involving hazardous chemical releases. Whether in an office or a workshop, it’s essential to assess the workplace, considering both direct hazards and contributing factors— such as how one person’s actions might impact others.

 

Rather than focusing on minor risks, attention should be given to significant hazards that pose real threats. Everyone involved in a task or affected by it should participate in the assessment. In some cases, referencing instructions, safety guides, or manufacturer data sheets may be necessary, especially when working with chemicals or specialized equipment requiring additional precautions.

 

 

Identify Who May Be Harmed

 

As you assess your organization, consider how business activities or external factors could pose risks to employees. For every hazard identified, think about who might be affected; whether it’s just you, your immediate team, or others in the workplace. Certain individuals, such as expectant mothers, young apprentices, or interns, may be more vulnerable and require additional safety measures.

 

Beyond employees, consider visitors, contractors, and others who may be unfamiliar with workplace hazards. Could they inadvertently enter a hazardous area? If so, proper controls, such as signage or restricted access, should be in place. Similarly, if work is conducted near the public, extra precautions like barriers may be necessary to ensure their safety.

 

 

Evaluating Risks & Precautions

 

After identifying potential hazards, the next step is to evaluate their likelihood and the severity of their consequences. This assessment helps prioritize which risks require immediate attention and where risk levels should be reduced. Even after precautions are in place, some risks may still remain, so it’s essential to determine whether they are acceptable or if further action is needed.

 

Risk evaluation should be an ongoing process, as not all risks are equal; what is acceptable for one organization may be unacceptable for another. To minimize risks, consider prevention strategies such as opting for safer alternatives, restricting access to hazards, organizing work to limit exposure, providing necessary welfare facilities, and issuing personal protective equipment (PPE).

 

 

Record Your Findings

 

If you employ five or more people, you are legally required to document the significant findings of your risk assessment. This record should demonstrate that you have thoroughly checked for hazards, identified who could be affected, and implemented measures to minimize risks. It is not enough to simply list hazards— you must also show the steps taken to mitigate them. Maintaining this documentation also serves as evidence of due diligence in case an incident occurs, or if it’s needed during an audit.

 

Risk assessments may also need to reference other workplace documents, such as policies, rules, or previous assessments, to ensure all potential hazards and necessary precautions are considered. Your written risk assessment should confirm that you have properly evaluated the workspace, identified those at risk, controlled hazards, implemented safety measures, and actively involved employees in the process.

 

 

Review the Assessment

 

Since workplaces are constantly evolving, it’s essential to have a process for regularly reviewing risk assessments. While tasks may seem unchanged, factors like personnel, equipment, work locations, and environmental conditions can all shift over time. Regularly assessing high-risk activities ensures that existing safety measures remain effective and relevant. Engaging with employees and gathering their insights is key to maintaining an up-to-date and practical risk management approach.

 

Risk assessments should also be reviewed dynamically during tasks to determine if additional controls are needed. Workers performing the job should evaluate conditions in real time and, if necessary, pause work to reassess risks. If a risk assessment is no longer suitable, it may require updates or even a complete reevaluation before proceeding. Ongoing risk assessment reviews are critical to keeping your workplace safe and adapting to new hazards as they arise.

 

 

Conclusion: Be Prepared, Conduct Thoroughly

 

Effective risk assessment is not just a requirement for ISO standards; it is a vital tool for safeguarding employees, stakeholders, and business operations. By systematically identifying hazards, evaluating risks, implementing controls, and continuously reviewing assessments, organizations can create a safer work environment while ensuring compliance and operational efficiency.

 

A well-executed risk assessment process helps prevent accidents, minimize nonconformities, and enhance overall workplace safety. Prioritizing risk management today leads to a more efficient and effective management system for the future.

 

The ISO 9001 Group offers expert management system consulting services for ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, GMPs, and more. Contact us today to learn more about how our professional consultants can help your organization achieve certification and improve your management system.