The Legal Requirement for Risk Assessments
Employers must ensure that all foreseeable hazards are identified, evaluated, and mitigated. Regulation 3 of MHSWR states that employers must carry out a “suitable and sufficient assessment” of risks that employees and others may be exposed to. This includes risks from:
•Working at height – Falls are one of the leading causes of fatal injuries in construction.
•Lifting operations – Poorly planned lifting tasks can result in serious injuries or fatalities.
•Plant and machinery use – Inadequate controls can lead to crushing, entrapment, and struck-by hazards.
•Hazardous substances – Exposure to dust, chemicals, or asbestos must be properly controlled.
By law, businesses must document significant findings, implement control measures, and regularly review risk assessments to ensure they remain effective.
How Risk Assessments Improve Workplace Safety
1. Prevention of Accidents and Injuries
Identifying hazards and implementing safety measures reduces the likelihood of workplace accidents, protecting employees and site visitors.
2. Legal Compliance and Liability Reduction
A well-documented risk assessment demonstrates compliance with UK health and safety regulations, reducing the risk of enforcement action from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
3. Improved Productivity and Cost Savings
Safe working environments lead to fewer delays, less downtime due to injuries, and lower insurance premiums, benefiting both employers and employees.
4. Ensuring Workforce Competency
Risk assessments ensure that workers are trained and competent to carry out their tasks safely. This includes verifying that employees hold the necessary CSCS, CPCS, or NPORS competency cards and have completed relevant NVQs.
How All Star Safety Can Help
At All Star Safety, we support businesses in meeting their legal obligations by providing:
✔ Comprehensive Risk Assessments – We conduct site-specific assessments, ensuring compliance with MHSWR, HASAWA, and CDM 2015.
✔ Health and Safety Consultancy – We offer expert advice to improve workplace safety and reduce risks.
✔ Lifting Operations Risk Assessments – Ensuring compliance with LOLER 98 and BS7121 for safe lifting practices.
✔ Training and Competency Verification – Helping businesses ensure their workforce is properly trained and holds the required NVQs and competency cards.
Call to see how we can help you
Ensure your workforce is protected and your business remains compliant. Contact All Star Safety today for professional risk assessments and health and safety support:
📞 0330 133 0402
📩 info@allstarsafety.co.uk