HSE simplifies risk asessments
November 1st 2009

The HSE has developed a new electronic template specially for small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) which combines the requirements of a health and safety policy, risk assessment and written record of health and safety arrangements into one document.

Example risk assessments for a range of industries have also been developed to show businesses what a 'good enough' record may look like.

90% of test users of the example risk assessments said they could get their own done more quickly, saving almost half the time on average.

In addition, almost threequarters of businesses that took part in the survey said the example risk assessments provided were very good or excellent.

Speaking during The European Week for Safety and Health at Work , HSE Chair, Judith Hackitt, said: We want to help get the message to small and medium-sized companies that risk assessments needn't be time consuming, bureaucratic or complicated. But they are essential to managing dangers in the workplace. We encourage a common sense approach that is proportionate to the potential risks involved."

"Most employers are already well aware of the risks that exist in their workplaces, making it easy for them to complete risk assessments.

The most important aspects of risk assessments are that they need to be acted upon and updated regularly." See: www. hse.gov.uk/risk/index.htm

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