The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) outlines risk assessment as a legal requirement for all employers and self-employed individuals. It’s a fundamental part of managing health and safety in the workplace and involves identifying potential causes of harm and taking sensible steps to prevent it.
According to the HSE, employers must:
Identify hazards – anything that could cause harm (e.g., tools, equipment, substances, work activities).
Decide who might be harmed and how – including employees, visitors, contractors, and the public.
Evaluate risks – assess the likelihood and severity of harm, and take steps to control or eliminate those risks.
Record findings – if you employ five or more people, you must document your risk assessment and the actions you’ve taken.
Review and update – assessments must be regularly reviewed and updated, particularly if the workplace, equipment, or procedures change.
Importantly, the HSE stresses that risk assessment should be proportionate. It’s about practical, sensible precautions—not overcomplicating the process. You are only expected to do what is “reasonably practicable”, which means balancing the level of risk against the resources needed to control it.
“You are not expected to eliminate all risk, but you are required to protect people as far as reasonably practicable.” – HSE
How We Help You Stay Compliant
At Alpha Compliance Training, we offer an Introduction to Risk Assessment course designed to help businesses meet these HSE expectations.
Learn how to conduct effective risk assessments Understand legal obligations and compliance requirements Build confidence in recognising and controlling workplace hazards
Whether you’re a manager, supervisor, or health and safety representative, this course is a practical step toward ensuring your workplace meets HSE standards. You can explore the course here.