Myth of the month
August 18th 2008 This month's myth of the month from the HSE addresses the myth that 'Even Mr Punch needs a written risk assessment.'
The reality
A Punch and Judy man received a standard letter from an event organiser asking him to submit a health and safety risk assessment. However when he questioned the need for it, they 'backed-off' and no paperwork was required. It sounds like wires got crossed somewhere and perhaps the standard letter was sent in error.
HSEs guidance is clear: if there is genuinely no significant risk, nothing needs to be written down.
If a written assessment is needed – keep it fit for purpose, and crucially: act on it. Paperwork without action does no one any good.
Download a printable poster version of the myth here
More articles from Health & Safety Executive: | 
