Conducting an Effective WHS Risk Assessment A Step-by-Step Guide
Knowing how to manage workplace risks is essential, but how do you pinpoint what those risks actually are? That's where the WHS Risk Assessment comes in – a crucial part of your overall WHS Risk Management strategy.
But what makes a risk assessment truly effective, and how do you actually do one? As WHS experts, we know it can seem complex, so let's break down the WHS Risk Assessment process into clear, manageable steps. This guide will help you proactively find and manage hazards in your workplace.
What Exactly is a WHS Risk Assessment?
A WHS Risk Assessment is your structured process for looking closely at your workplace to
Identify things (hazards) that could potentially harm someone.
Evaluate how likely that harm is and how severe it could be (the risk).
Decide on the best ways to eliminate or minimise that risk.
It’s about stopping injuries and illnesses before they happen.
Why is a Thorough WHS Risk Assessment So Crucial?
Taking the time to conduct effective WHS Risk Assessments is vital for many reasons
Staying Compliant- Australian WHS laws require businesses (PCBUs) to manage risks. A documented WHS Risk Assessment demonstrates you're meeting your legal duties.
Preventing Harm- It’s the most direct way to protect your workers and anyone else affected by your business from physical and psychological injury or illness.
Improving Productivity- Safer workplaces generally have better morale, less absenteeism, and fewer costly disruptions from incidents.
Saving Costs- Preventing incidents means avoiding expenses like workers' compensation, investigation time, repairs, and potential fines from regulators.
Making Informed Decisions- It gives you the solid information needed to prioritise safety efforts and allocate resources where they'll have the biggest impact within your WHS Risk Management plan.
The 5 Key Steps to an Effective WHS Risk Assessment
A great WHS Risk Assessment typically involves these five key steps
Step 1- Identify Hazards
What it means- Systematically find anything in your workplace that could potentially cause harm.
How to do it
Walk through the workplace, observing tasks and conditions.
Talk with your workers – they have firsthand knowledge of the risks.
Review records of past incidents, injuries, and near misses.
Check manufacturer's guidelines for equipment and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for chemicals.
Think broadly – include physical hazards (slips, trips, machinery), chemical hazards, biological hazards, and psychosocial hazards (stress, bullying, fatigue). Consider routine and non-routine tasks.
Step 2 - Assess the Risks
What it means - For each hazard identified, figure out the level of risk associated with it.
How to do it- Consider-
Likelihood- How likely is it that someone could be harmed?
Consequence- If someone were harmed, how severe would the outcome likely be (e.g., minor first aid, serious injury, long-term illness, fatality)?
You can use a simple risk matrix tool to help rate and compare risks, allowing you to prioritise the most serious ones first.
Example- Unguarded machinery might be rated 'Likely'/'Severe', needing immediate action, while occasional awkward lifting might be 'Possible'/'Moderate', needing planned controls.
Step 3- Control the Risks
What it means - Decide on and implement the most effective measures to eliminate or minimise the risks, using the 'Hierarchy of Controls'.
How to do it (The Hierarchy of Controls) - Start at the top and work down
Elimination - Remove the hazard entirely (most effective). Example Stop using a hazardous process.
Substitution - Replace the hazard with something safer. Example Use a less hazardous chemical.
Isolation - Separate people from the hazard. Example Install safety guarding or barriers.
Engineering Controls - Make physical changes to equipment or the environment. Example Install mechanical lifting aids or better ventilation.
Administrative Controls - Change work practices or procedures. Example Implement specific safe work procedures, job rotation, or targeted training.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - Provide protective gear (least effective, often used alongside other controls). Example Gloves, safety glasses, safety vests.
Always aim for the highest, most reliable control measure that is reasonably practicable. Often, a combination of controls works best.
Step 4 - Implement Control Measures
What it means - Put your chosen control measures into practice effectively.
How to do it
Create a clear action plan - Who needs to do what, and by when?
Allocate the necessary resources (time, budget, people).
Communicate the changes clearly to everyone affected.
Provide any required training and ensure adequate supervision.
Step 5 - Review and Revise
What it means - WHS Risk Management, including assessment, is an ongoing cycle. Regularly check if your controls are working and if anything has changed.
When to review
After any incident or near miss.
When a new hazard is identified.
If there are changes to work processes, equipment, substances, or the work environment.
Following consultation or if workers report issues with controls.
At planned intervals (e.g., annually).
If monitoring shows controls aren't effective. Example If injuries related to a task continue despite a new procedure, the assessment and controls need revisiting.
Tips for a Successful WHS Risk Assessment
Involve Your Workers - Consultation at each step is crucial and legally required. Their input is invaluable.
Document Everything - Keep clear, accessible records of your hazard identification, risk assessments, control measures, and reviews.
Be Thorough - Don't cut corners. Look at all aspects of work.
Use Templates - Standardised forms can help maintain consistency (check Safe Work Australia or your state regulator for resources).
Seek Expertise - If you encounter complex hazards or are unsure about controls, get advice from qualified WHS professionals.
Safety Through Proactive Assessment
Conducting a thorough WHS Risk Assessment isn't just about paperwork; it's a practical cornerstone of responsible WHS Risk Management.
It’s how you actively create a workplace where people are protected from harm. By systematically identifying, assessing, and controlling risks, you safeguard your team, meet your obligations, and build a more resilient and successful business.
Ready to Strengthen Your WHS Risk Management?
At Lane Safety Systems, we specialise in helping businesses improve WHS risk management ensuring compliance, reducing risks, and supporting safer workplaces.
Whether you need clarity on your WHS duties, a detailed risk management gap analysis, or expert support to update your safety management system, we’re here to assist.
Contact us today to arrange a free consultation or WHS check-up and take the next step toward proactive, effective WHS risk management aligned with SafeWork NSW expectations
