Format for Risk Assessment

A risk assessment can be documented using various formats depending on the specific needs and requirements of your organisation. Here is a common format that can be used as a starting point for structuring a risk assessment:

1. Introduction: Provide a brief overview of the purpose and scope of the risk assessment. Clearly state the objectives and the timeframe within which the assessment will be conducted.
2. Risk Assessment Team: Identify the individuals involved in conducting the risk assessment. This may include members of the risk management team, subject matter experts, and relevant stakeholders.
3. Risk Assessment Methodology: Describe the methodology or approach that will be used to assess risks. This may include the techniques, tools, and criteria employed to identify, analyse, evaluate, and prioritize risks. Provide an explanation of how the risk levels will be determined.
4. Risk Identification: List and describe the potential hazards, events, or circumstances that could lead to risks within your organization. This could include physical, operational, financial, legal, reputational, or other types of risks specific to your industry or activities. Use a structured approach to identify risks, such as brainstorming sessions, checklists, or scenario analysis.
5. Risk Analysis and Evaluation: Analyse and evaluate each identified risk. Assess the likelihood and impact of each risk on your organisation. You may use scales or scoring systems to quantify or qualify the likelihood and impact levels. Document the rationale and assumptions behind your assessments.
6. Risk Prioritisation: Based on the risk analysis, prioritise risks according to their significance and potential consequences. Rank risks in order of severity or prioritise them using a numerical or qualitative scale. This step helps allocate resources and attention to high-priority risks.
7. Risk Mitigation Strategies: Identify and outline the specific measures or actions that will be implemented to manage, mitigate, or control each prioritized risk. Describe the mitigation strategies, including preventive, detective, or corrective controls. Assign responsibilities, establish timelines, and indicate any additional resources required.
8. Risk Monitoring and Review: Establish a process for ongoing monitoring and review of risks. Define indicators, thresholds, or triggers to monitor changes in risk levels. Specify the frequency and methods of monitoring and reporting. Identify the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders involved in risk monitoring.
9. Documentation and Communication: Ensure that the risk assessment process, findings, and mitigation strategies are well-documented. Clearly communicate the results of the risk assessment to relevant stakeholders, such as management, employees, or regulatory authorities. Provide access to the risk assessment documentation for future reference.
10. Review and Update: Regularly review and update the risk assessment to reflect changes in your organization's activities, processes, or risk landscape. Conduct periodic reassessments to capture emerging risks or changes in risk levels. Document any updates or revisions made to the risk assessment.

To assist with this task select and download any or all the templates within the Health & Safety subscription at Risk Assessment Form Templates 

Remember, this format can be customised to suit your organisation's specific needs and industry requirements. Ensure that the risk assessment documentation is clear, concise, and easily understandable for all stakeholders involved.