Step 3. Evaluate the risks and decide whether existing precautions are adequate or more should be done.
Consider how likely it is that each hazard could cause harm. This will determine whether or not you need to do more to reduce the risk. Even after all precautions have been taken, some risk usually remains. What you have to decide for each significant hazard is whether this remaining risk is high, medium or low.
Firstly, ask yourself whether you have done all the things that the law says you have got to do. As an example, there are legal requirements on prevention of access to dangerous parts of machinery. Then ask yourself whether generally accepted industry standards are in place. But do not stop there, think for yourself, because the law also says that you must do what is reasonably practicable to keep your workplace safe. Your real aim is to Make All Risks Small by adding to your precautions as necessary.
If you find that something needs to be done, draw up an action list, and give priority to any remaining risks which are high, and those which could affect most people.
In taking action ask yourself:
1. Can you get rid of the hazard...