Module 2 - 2C Workplace Risk Assessment

Risk Assessment

The step after hazards are identified that involves determining the likelihood of harm occurring and the severity of the potential harm if it does occur, often using a risk matrix to categorize the risks.

• Possible Effects

• Existing Controls (if any)

• Probability

• Severity

• Risk Rating

HIRAC Form Components (Risk Assessment Section) (5)

Identify the Hazards.

Step 1 of Risk Assessment Flow

List Current Control Measures.

Step 2 of Risk Assessment Flow

Determine the Likelihood.

Step 3 of Risk Assessment Flow

Determine the Severity.

Step 4 of Risk Assessment Flow

Determine Level of Risk and Plot on the Matrix.

Step 5 of Risk Assessment Flow

Identify Additional Risk Control Measures (Required if the risk is analyzed and determined NOT to be low).

Step 6 of Risk Assessment Flow

Review Risk Assessment (Reevaluate risk to ensure it is as low as reasonably practicable).

Step 7 of Risk Assessment Flow

Risk Assessment Goal

To remove a hazard or reduce the level of its risk by adding precautions or control measures, thereby creating a safer and healthier workplace.

Importance of Risk Assessment

It forms an integral part of the safety management plan, creates awareness of hazards, identifies who is at risk, determines if existing controls are adequate, prevents injuries/illnesses at the design/planning stage, and prioritizes hazards and controls.

Major fracture, poisoning, significant blood loss, or fatal disease.

High Severity (Risk Prioritization)

Sprain or strain, dermatitis, or an injury requiring days off work.

Medium Severity (Risk Prioritization)

Injury requiring only first aid, short-term pain, or irritation.

Low Severity (Risk Prioritization)

Likely to be experienced one to two times per year by an individual.

High Likelihood / Probability (Risk Prioritization)

Might be experienced once every five years.

Medium Likelihood / Probability (Risk Prioritization)

Might occur once in an individual’s entire working life.

Low Likelihood / Probability (Risk Prioritization)

Risk Classification of Establishments (Responsibility)

Per DOLE Labor Advisory 0419, the establishment is responsible for determining its own level of classification (low, medium, or high risk) based on the HIRAC conducted by the company.

Low Risk Establishment

A workplace where there is a low level of danger or exposure to safety and health hazards.

Medium Risk Establishment

A workplace where there is moderate exposure to safety and health hazards.

High Risk Establishment

A workplace where there is a high level of exposure to safety and health hazards, and a probability of a major accident resulting in disability, death, or major illness.

Workplace Assessment Team (Key Point)

When conducting assessments, it helps to work as a team including people both familiar and unfamiliar with the work area/process so all perspectives can contribute.

Determining Risk Level (Key Point)

There is no single way or technique to determine the level of risk that applies in all situations; the organization has to determine which technique works best for each situation.

Risk Prioritization (Key Point)

Ranking or prioritizing hazards helps determine which risk is the most serious and therefore which needs to be controlled first.

Communication and Consultation (Risk Assessment Step)

Essential part of the risk assessment process to ensure all stakeholders are informed and involved.

Risk Equation

Risk = Likelihood × Severity; combines probability of occurrence with seriousness of consequences.

Risk Rating Matrix Values

Matrix values range from 1 (lowest risk) to 9 (highest risk), derived from multiplying probability and severity scores.

Risk Rating Matrix – High Risk

Requires immediate action to control the hazard; actions must be documented with completion dates.

Risk Rating Matrix – Medium Risk

Requires a planned approach to control hazards; temporary measures may be applied and actions documented.

Risk Rating Matrix – Low Risk

May be considered acceptable, but if quick and efficient solutions exist, control measures should be implemented and recorded.