News

October 30, 2009

HSE launches template to help firms complete risk assessments

Time-pressed small firms will be able to check they are complying with their health and safety obligations in one step, following the launch of an online template from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

The template brings together the rules on health and safety policy, risk assessment and written record of health and safety arrangements into a single form that businesses can complete to ensure they are meeting all their obligations.

To support the template, the HSE has also published a series of typical risk assessments from a range of industries, which show how real businesses have tackled the mandatory assessment process.

"We want to help get the message to small- and medium-sized firms that risk assessments need not be time consuming, bureaucratic or complicated," said HSE chair, Judith Hackitt. "But they are essential to managing dangers in the workplace. We encourage a common-sense approach that is proportionate to the potential risks involved."

• To download the health and safety template, visit the HSE website