Regular Risk Assessment Reviews: Ensuring Compliance and Safety

When initiating new projects or processes, thorough planning is essential to minimize surprises and effectively manage any risks that may arise. A well-documented risk register, as part of a comprehensive business plan, is invaluable in this process. In this article, we will explore the frequency of reviewing risk assessments, the importance of staying compliant with changing legislation, and various scenarios that necessitate an update to your risk assessment.

Annual Reviews

Many organizations conduct annual reviews of their health and safety documentation, including risk assessments and method statements. Regular annual reviews are crucial because outdated documents can lead to discrepancies and non-compliance issues from regulatory bodies or external auditors. For instance, Construction Health and Safety Assessment Scheme (CHAS) requires health and safety documents to be submitted within the previous year for assessment.

Example: Ensure risk assessments and method statements are reviewed and updated annually. For example, a recently completed risk assessment for a construction project should be reviewed within the last 12 months to validate its accuracy and relevance.

Legislation Changes

Health and safety legislation is not static; it evolves to keep up with new techniques, technologies, and work practices. Consequently, regulations are constantly reviewed, consulted on, and updated. Changes in health and safety law typically occur twice a year, on April 6 (the start of the tax year) and October 1.

Numberous regulations have been updated recently, such as the Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017, Explosives Regulations 2014 Amendment Regulations 2016, and Construction Design and Management Regulations 2015. In the same year, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) consulted on potential future changes to other areas, including asbestos regulations and workplace exposure limits.

Note: If your risk assessment references a regulation that changes on April 6 or October 1, ensure it aligns with the updated regulations.

Other Reasons for Review

While annual reviews and legislative changes are critical, there are several other situations that may necessitate immediate review of your risk assessment:

Significant Changes in the Task

Work activities often evolve over time. Innovations, better practices, and the introduction of new tools and equipment can make existing procedures safer or introduce new hazards. When significant changes occur, it is essential to reassess your risk assessment to ensure it remains valid.

Implementing Improvements

You may have recorded actions needed following your initial risk assessment and developed an action plan to address these. This could range from installing new safety features, modifying work processes, or introducing new training programs. Periodic reviews help you track the progress of these improvements and adjust your risk management strategies as necessary.

Problems Arising from the Task

Problems or incidents, even if minor (near misses), highlight gaps in your current risk management approach. Addressing these issues in a timely manner can prevent more significant accidents and ensure continuous improvement.

Accidents or Near Misses

A comprehensive risk assessment should include a mechanism for reporting and investigating accidents and near misses. Post-incident reviews allow you to identify areas for improvement and update your risk assessments to reflect new information and best practices.

Conclusion

Regularly reviewing and updating your risk assessments is a vital component of maintaining a safe working environment. By conducting annual reviews, staying informed about regulatory changes, and addressing significant changes, improvements, and problems in your work processes, you can ensure your risk assessments remain pertinent and effective.