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Electricity, Biological Hazards Top Risk Assessment List for Workplace

A comprehensive risk assessment has identified several hazards that pose a significant threat to employee safety in the workplace.

Top Risks Identified

According to the latest guidelines from the Ministry of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment, biological hazards such as bacteria, viruses, infestations and infectious waste are among the top risks faced by employees. Additionally, psychological stress, environmental extremes like heat or cold temperatures, lack of ventilation, and slippery floors also feature prominently on the list.

Electrical Fires and Explosions Pose a High Risk

The risk assessment matrix, which evaluates the likelihood and severity of harm caused by these hazards, reveals that electrical fires and explosions pose a high risk to employee safety. The guidelines urge employers to take immediate action to mitigate these risks, including implementing engineering controls, administrative measures, and personal protective equipment.

Other Significant Hazards Identified

Other significant hazards identified in the assessment include:

• Ergonomic risks such as awkward postures and movements, which can lead to musculoskeletal disorders and other injuries.
• Slippery floors
• Lack of ventilation
• Environmental extremes like heat or cold temperatures

Risk Assessment Process

The ministry’s risk assessment guidelines provide a step-by-step approach to identifying and controlling workplace hazards. The five steps involved are:

1. Identify Hazards

This involves identifying potential hazards and assessing their likelihood and severity.

2. Evaluate Risks

The risks associated with each hazard are then evaluated using the risk matrix.

3. Control Risks

Depending on the level of risk, control measures such as elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment are implemented.

4. Monitor and Review

The effectiveness of these control measures is monitored through regular inspections, testing, and consultation with employees.

5. Review and Update

The risk assessment is reviewed every two years or earlier if there has been a significant change in the workplace.

Case Study: Registry Office Risk Assessment

The registry office recently conducted a risk assessment at its premises, identifying several hazards including slips and falls, electrical risks, and fire hazards. The assessment revealed that regular cleaning and good housekeeping practices could reduce the risk of slips and falls to low levels. Similarly, proper electrical wiring and regular checks on electrical sockets and equipment reduced the risk of electrical fires.

References

1. Ministry of Manpower (2008). Guidelines on Risk Assessment.
2. Health and Safety Executive (2008). Five Steps to Risk Assessment.
3. International Labour Organization (2001). Guidelines on Occupational Safety and Health Management Systems – ILO-OSH 2001.
4. Department of Industry and Resources, Australia (1999). Safety and Health Risk Management Guideline.

Risk Assessment Form

[Insert company name] [Insert date]

Note: The risk assessment form is included at the end for reference only.