Workplace Risk Assessments

Yes, you can conduct your own risk assessment as long as you’re a ‘competent person’—someone with enough training, experience, or knowledge to identify hazards and recommend control measures.

Employers are legally responsible for ensuring risk assessments are completed, as required by the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. However, this task can be delegated to a ‘competent person’.

A competent person could include:

• The employer, if they understand workplace risks and safety practices.
• A trained employee with the confidence to identify hazards and recommend measures.
• An external consultant, especially for complex or high-risk environments.

Risk assessments are mandatory for all UK businesses, regardless of size. For smaller businesses with fewer than five employees, documenting findings isn’t legally required but is still considered good practice. Regular reviews are essential to keep assessments relevant as workplaces and regulations change.

Effective risk assessments help protect people, prevent accidents, and demonstrate your commitment to safety, ensuring your business runs smoothly and responsibly.

Yes, conducting risk assessments is required by UK law under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. Employers must identify hazards, assess risks, and put measures in place to protect their team. For businesses with five or more employees, findings must be documented to ensure compliance and demonstrate a commitment to workplace safety.

Yes, small businesses are also required to conduct risk assessments. If you have fewer than five employees, you’re not legally obligated to document your findings, but doing so is still recommended. At Omny, we believe safety is essential for every workplace, no matter the size, and we’re here to make the process simple and effective.

Common safety risks include slips, trips, and falls, manual handling injuries, exposure to hazardous substances, and electrical hazards. Other risks might involve fire safety, working at height, or poorly designed workstations. Addressing these risks not only protects your team but also ensures a safer, more productive workplace for everyone.

A risk assessment typically includes identifying hazards, understanding who might be harmed, and deciding on measures to minimise risks. It also involves recording findings, implementing solutions, and reviewing assessments regularly. At Omny, we simplify this process, providing clear guidance to help you maintain a safe and compliant workplace.