To raise awareness of a simplified risk management approach for small businesses and to provide advice and support, in assisting them to complete their risk assessments.
Evidence suggests that small businesses view the requirements to complete a risk assessment as one of their biggest health and safety burdens, with businesses reporting that the process is burdensome and beyond their capabilities. On the other hand, some find that the fast moving nature of their business means it is difficult to keep up and so concentrate on the paperwork, rather than controlling the actual risks.
The HSE in partnership with stakeholders, has developed a series of straightforward, easy to follow, example risk assessments. They identify real risks and describe practical solutions to control them; allowing businesses to see what a “good enough” record of a risk assessment for a business in their sector might look like. In a recent on line survey, businesses reported that the examples enable them to complete their own risk assessments in less time and more effectively, prompting a feeling of confidence and self-assurance, that they are doing enough to meet the regulatory requirements.
All micro and small-sized businesses with a workforce of up to 99 employees.
All year
Here is an example of some feedback we have received, “Noctis believes that the HSE example risk assessments are a valuable contribution to this crucially important area of operations and appreciate HSE’s efforts to create a cost-effective and flexible example of risk assessment.” Noctis is the Voice of the nighttime Economy.
Inspectors should be aware of who (in terms of diversity e.g. men, women, disabled etc) is the target group in the sector they are dealing with. Give consideration to, and factor into the approach, any issues that may surround this audience such as literacy issues, English as a second language and disability (access needs).
The Diversity pages give more information on these areas.
HSE’s website gives example risk assessments.