We understand the importance of having a risk assessment checklist that can be tailored to suit different office and site requirements across the Australia and Aotearoa/ New Zealand. A risk assessment is a critical step in identifying and mitigating potential hazards in the workplace to ensure the health and safety of employees.

**Disclaimer: this is a general guide and is not to be considered as a comprehensive list.**

Here is a guide for a risk assessment checklist that can serve as a starting point for your organisation

1. Hazard Identification:
Consider both physical and psychological hazards that may be present.

   - Identify potential hazards specific to the office/site environment (e.g., slips, trips, falls, ergonomic risks, electrical hazards, fatigue and bullying etc.).

2. Risk Evaluation:

   - Assess the likelihood and severity of each identified hazard.

   - Determine the level of risk associated with each hazard based on the likelihood and severity ratings.

   - Prioritise risks based on their level of significance.

3. Risk Control Measures:

   - Identify control measures to eliminate or minimise the identified risks.

   - Implement engineering controls (e.g., installing safety barriers, ergonomic equipment), administrative controls (e.g., training programmes, procedures), and personal protective equipment (PPE) as necessary.

   - Ensure compliance with relevant WHS regulations and standards.

4. Emergency Preparedness:

   - Evaluate emergency procedures and evacuation plans.

   - Check the availability and functionality of emergency equipment (e.g., fire extinguishers, first aid kits).

   - Conduct regular drills and training sessions to ensure employees are prepared for emergencies.

5. Communication and Training:

   - Provide clear instructions on safety procedures and expectations to all employees.

   - Conduct regular safety training sessions to raise awareness and promote safe practices.

   - Encourage open communication channels for reporting hazards and near-miss incidents.

6. Monitoring and Review:

   - Regularly inspect the workplace to identify new hazards or changes in existing hazards.

   - Review and update risk assessments as necessary, especially when introducing new processes or equipment.

   - Maintain records of risk assessments, control measures, and incidents.

We hope this helps to give you a starting point that you can expand and tailor to you requirements. If in doubt, seek the assistance of a professional.