If a job is worth doing it often takes a number of steps to get it right as well as a good measure of tenacity to keep on track and get the job done. No matter what the project you need to do, make a point of planning in detail before you begin. Planning a health and safety risk assessment is no different. Here are the steps to getting it spot on:
1. Can you avoid risk completely
First, you need to check whether the task you are assessing could avoid all elements of risk. For example window cleaners face the high risk of falling when using ladders to tackle first floor windows. This can however be avoided by using a long hosed cleaning attachment so that cleaners stay on the ground. This step is imperative. If you omit it you risk missing ways to make a job completely safe.
2. Look for ways to do a job with less risk
If you cannot eliminate risk totally you should identify ways of working that are less risky. As a window cleaner you may access higher windows using a cherry picker access van rather than a ladder. It will involve some ingenuity and must meet with health and safety guidelines. If a job involves carrying items how can you reduce the weight?
3. Put control systems in place
Get sound health and safety processes in place to ensure risk is minimised. Training must be carried out and systems should be regularly monitored to ensure they are working.
4. Use PPE
Personal protective equipment is a must. It needs to be enforced and people within the organisation must be educated about the need to wear it.
At NorthgateArinso we are specialists in offering health and safety advice including courses and training for all aspects of risk assessment.