Reviewing risk assessments

Risk assessment is not a one off task, but an ongoing process which should form part of everyday considerations, especially where risks are dynamic or particularly challenging. It is important to review risks and assessments on a regular basis, depending on the level and nature of the risk. Risk Assessments must be reviewed whenever anything is to be changed, if there has been an accident or near-miss or, if there have been no problems or changes, on a regular basis as determined by the level of risk.

Pro-active monitoring

Findings from hazard identification exercises and risk assessments will help identify the content and timing of any pro-active monitoring which might be required. Such information is particularly useful for the development of inspection checklists, which can be used to check that risk controls are in place and are being used correctly.

In essence the effectiveness of risk assessments and risk controls can be assessed through:

• Audits
• Inspections
• Sampling

Health and safety audits are carried out by the Health and Safety Team, as are inspections. Departments can also carry out their own inspections or sampling in order to provide assurance to Heads of Department that control measures have been implemented and are being followed by staff and/or students.

Reactive monitoring

It is always important to learn from accidents and incidents, so that additional control measures can be identified in order to prevent recurrence. Accident investigation is a form of post-accident risk assessment as control measures are assessed and modified accordingly, or new controls implemented.

There is more information available on the Accidents, Incidents and Near Misses page.

If you require access or any further information discuss with your Departmental Contact or get in touch with the Health & Safety team by using the Assure system and filling in an 'Ask for Advice' formLink opens in a new windowLink opens in a new window.