Risk Assessment

Step 1:

Identify the Hazards: Look for things that could cause harm, such as slips, trips, faulty equipment, or physical contact during sports.

· Location;

· Activities;

· Task observation;

· Equipment and substances;

· Consultation with colleagues or industry expert;

· Legal standards, relevant regulation and approved codes of practice;

· Guidance and benchmarking;

· Manuals, chemical labels, MSDS;

· Accident, ill health or near miss data;

· Workplace inspection reports.

Step 2:

Identify the people who/ what might be harmed and how: Note what kind of injury or issue might happen (e.g., muscle strains, sprains, or fractures).

Students
Coaches
Team Managers 

Spectators / Visitors

Members of the public (incl. passers by).

Remember to consider people at additional risk:

· New or expectant mothers;

· People with a disability;

· Lone workers;

· Young people.

Step 3:

Evaluate the risk and decide on controls: List actions to reduce risk, such as keeping walkways clear, checking gear before use, or using certified coaches.

Determine whether existing control measures are in place and effective;

· Are any additional control measures required?

You can either use a matrix to help evaluate risk and decide on control measures or just consider what controls would be suitable and sufficient for the task. Either approach is acceptable.

Step 4:

Record the significant findings and implement: 

You need to record:

· Location, equipment and activity being assessed;

· Date and time of the assessment and date for review;

· Significant hazards;

· People affected;

· Existing controls;

· Further actions/ controls required;

· Cross-reference to any other documents (e.g. work policies/ procedures/ risk assessment/ permits);

· Ensure this record is readily available.

Step 5:

Review and update the above as necessary

Significant Change:                           Validity:                                    Periodically:

Process                                            Adverse Event                          Monthly / Annually

Substance                                        Ill Health

Equipment                                        Change to legal status

Environment

Personnel