Risk Assessment Report Template for England and Wales

A Risk Assessment Report is a legally mandated document that systematically identifies workplace hazards, evaluates potential risks, and establishes appropriate control measures. Under England and Wales legislation, this document serves as both a compliance requirement and a practical safety management tool that protects employees and demonstrates your organisation's commitment to workplace safety.

When do you need this document?

You must prepare a Risk Assessment Report whenever introducing new work processes, equipment, or substances into your workplace. The document is also required when modifying existing operations, following workplace accidents or near-misses, or during regular safety reviews. If you employ five or more people, you must maintain written records of your risk assessments. The report is essential before allowing employees to work with hazardous substances, operate new machinery, or perform manual handling tasks. Additionally, you need updated assessments when changing work locations, hiring new staff, or when legislation updates affect your operations.

Key legal considerations

Your Risk Assessment Report must demonstrate that you have conducted "suitable and sufficient" assessments as required by law. The document should identify all reasonably foreseeable hazards and evaluate both the likelihood and severity of potential harm. You must specify existing control measures and identify any additional precautions needed to reduce risks to an acceptable level. The assessment should consider vulnerable groups including young workers, pregnant employees, and those with disabilities. Your report must be regularly reviewed and updated, particularly when circumstances change or following any workplace incidents. Remember that inadequate risk assessments can result in prosecution and significant penalties under health and safety legislation.

Legal requirements in England and Wales

Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, employers must conduct comprehensive risk assessments and maintain written records. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) requires specific assessments for hazardous substances, while Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 mandate evaluations for lifting and moving tasks. Display Screen Equipment Regulations 1992 require assessments for computer workstations. Your Risk Assessment Report must reference relevant legislation and demonstrate compliance with applicable standards. The document should be accessible to employees and available for inspection by Health and Safety Executive (HSE) officials. Regular training and communication about identified risks and control measures are also legal requirements that should be documented within your assessment process.