Agricultural Risk Assessment Template for England and Wales

An Agricultural Risk Assessment is a comprehensive safety evaluation document that helps you identify, assess, and control hazards across your farming operations. Under England and Wales law, this assessment is not just good practice—it's a legal requirement that demonstrates your commitment to protecting workers, contractors, and visitors on your agricultural premises.

When do you need this document?

You must conduct agricultural risk assessments whenever you employ five or more people, introduce new farming activities, acquire new machinery or equipment, or handle hazardous substances like pesticides and fertilizers. The assessment is also required when significant changes occur to your operations, following accidents or near-misses, during seasonal activities like harvesting, and when contractors work on your farm. Regular reviews ensure your safety measures remain effective as your farming practices evolve.

Key legal considerations

Your agricultural risk assessment must comprehensively identify hazards specific to farming environments, including machinery operations, livestock handling, chemical storage and application, confined spaces, and working at height. The document should evaluate both the likelihood and potential severity of identified risks using a standardized risk matrix. You must detail existing control measures and specify additional safety measures required to reduce risks to acceptable levels. The assessment should clearly assign responsibilities for implementing and monitoring safety measures, establish training requirements for workers and contractors, and include emergency response procedures. Regular review dates must be set to ensure the assessment remains current and effective.

Legal requirements in England and Wales

Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, you have a general duty to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of all persons on your agricultural premises. The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 specifically require you to conduct suitable and sufficient risk assessments and implement appropriate preventive and protective measures. Agricultural-specific legislation, including the Agriculture (Safety, Health and Welfare Provisions) Act 1956, sets additional safety standards for farming operations. The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 mandate proper maintenance and safe operation of agricultural machinery, while COSHH Regulations 2002 govern the handling of pesticides, fertilizers, and other hazardous substances. Your risk assessment must demonstrate compliance with HSE guidance for agriculture and be readily available for inspection by enforcement officers. Failure to maintain adequate risk assessments can result in enforcement action, prosecution, and significant financial penalties.