risk assessment calculator
One of the most important areas to consider when underwriting a risk risk is how the business is managed, as well as the specific industry it's in. We feel this demonstrates a more professional approach and provides a better guide to the real level of risk involved.
In simple terms, a risk is underwritten on its merits, not as part of an overall portfolio so businesses with a proactive or superior approach to risk management are well received.
Risk assessments aren't difficult, but they do take time. That's why it's sensible to spread the load as far as possible.
You can do this by asking people to carry out risk assessments in their own particular area - where they best know about any hazards. For example - you could ask the care manager to assess manual handling requirements, the science department to assess the laboratory and the office manager to assess the offices. Of course, the whole process should be overseen and co-ordinated by the person who has overall responsibility for health and safety.
We offer this risk assessment guidance to our customers in order to minimise any risks to the insured and reduce liability claims, allowing us to keep premiums down.
Where 5 or more people are employed there is a legal requirement to record significant findings from risk assessments, however we would suggest documenting all risk assessments irrespective of the numbers employed, as proof of their completion.
The process
Systematically look at each area of the premises (including public places yards, car parks and other external areas) and note:
- all of the hazards and risks, including those arising from activities being undertaken
- any existing safety measures
- any person who may be specifically at risk
- any additional safety measures or controls which could reduce the risks presented
To help you, we've created a checklist of common hazards which you should look for in each area. If any of these hazards are present, record them, and record what you need to do about them. Also, don't forget to look for any hazards not included in the checklist - for example, activities specific to your business or particular pieces of equipment that may cause harm.
In addition to the risks arising from your buildings and activities, risk assessments must also be undertaken for activities undertaken away from the premises - visits, outings and fund-raising activities for example.
Once you've completed the checklist, you should have a good idea of the risks associated with your building or organisation. To calculate the risk rating for a certain risk (eg slips, trips and falls) and whether any action is required - simply enter your estimate below for each risk of (a) the likelihood of the risk happening and (b) the severity of the risk if it were to occur, then click 'calculate'. This will then give you a risk rating for each risk. The rating indicates whether actionis required ie if the risk is a low, medium or high priority.
Risk Assessment Calculator
