Technical Risk Assessment Template for England and Wales

A technical risk assessment is a mandatory legal document that systematically evaluates potential hazards in your workplace operations, equipment, and processes. Under England and Wales law, this document helps you comply with the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and associated regulations by identifying risks and implementing appropriate control measures to protect your employees and business assets.

When do you need this document?

You must conduct technical risk assessments whenever you introduce new equipment, modify existing processes, or identify potential hazards in your workplace. This requirement applies to manufacturing facilities installing new machinery, construction sites using specialized equipment, laboratories handling hazardous substances, or office buildings implementing new electrical systems. The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 specifically require employers to assess risks to employee health and safety, making this document essential for legal compliance. You'll also need updated assessments following workplace incidents, regulatory changes, or when your insurance provider requests current risk documentation.

Key legal considerations

Your technical risk assessment must demonstrate systematic hazard identification covering physical, chemical, biological, and ergonomic risks relevant to your operations. The document should include a clear risk evaluation matrix that scores both likelihood and severity of potential incidents, enabling you to prioritize control measures effectively. Under COSHH Regulations 2002, you must specifically assess risks from hazardous substances, while the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require evaluation of electrical safety risks. Your assessment must identify existing control measures and specify additional actions needed to reduce risks to acceptable levels. Documentation of competent persons conducting the assessment is crucial, as the regulations require assessments to be carried out by individuals with appropriate knowledge and experience.

Legal requirements in England and Wales

The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 establishes your fundamental duty to ensure employee safety so far as reasonably practicable, while the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 provide specific requirements for risk assessment processes. You must review and update your technical risk assessments regularly, particularly when circumstances change or new hazards emerge. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires separate fire risk assessments for premises, which may overlap with your technical assessment scope. Your assessment must be recorded in writing if you employ five or more people, and you must share relevant findings with employees and their representatives. The Health and Safety Executive may inspect your risk assessments during workplace visits, and inadequate documentation can result in improvement notices or prosecution under health and safety legislation.