Risk Assessment
It must be appreciated that risk assessment is not a precise science.
What may be a risky operation for one person may be a matter of common sense for another. It is necessary, therefore, to quantify the risks in a way that is understandable and credible to all concerned.
There are many systems that can be used to determine the risk associated with a hazard within the workplace. A simple and effective way of identifying and prioritising those hazards that require further control is by use of a numerical system such as that detailed below.
A Numerical System
Hazard
(something with the potential to cause harm). May be quantified as:
- 3 = fatal
- 2 = major injury
- 1 = minor injury
Probability
(the likelihood of that harm being realised). May be quantified as:
- 3 = very likely
- 2 = likely
- 1 = unlikely
Consequently, the significance of a hazard may be calculated as: Probability x Hazard. For example:
| Hazard | Persons Affected | Hazard | Probability | Hazard x Probability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tipping the Forklift Truck | Drivers and People | 3 | 2 | = 6 |
| Dermatitis From Using Bactericidal Detergent | Kitchen Staff | 1 | 3 | = 3 |
| Beer Line Cleaner Splashed In Eyes | Head Barman and Bar Steward | 2 | 2 | = 4 |
The interpretation of the results may be given as:
| Probability and Hazard | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 9 | Significant |
| 6 | Significant |
| 4 | Significant |
| 3 | Significant |
| 2 | Not Significant |
| 1 | Not Significant |