More than a document
Risk assessment is a decision-making process. It starts with real work activities and moves through hazards and measures to an effectiveness review.
Responsibility remains with the employer. Professional support can structure the process, but it does not replace organisational decisions or provide a blanket legal guarantee.
Consider physical and psychosocial factors in context
Equipment, surroundings, workflows, organisation and psychosocial workload may all be relevant. The appropriate method depends on the organisation and the question being examined.
Revisit the assessment when work changes
New tasks, equipment, premises, workflows or findings may require an update. A clear trigger for review therefore belongs in the process.
A traceable process
A practical approach, step by step.
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Define work areas
Structure tasks, groups and comparable conditions sensibly.
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Identify hazards
Capture relevant physical, organisational and psychosocial factors.
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Define measures
Prioritise suitable protective action and assign ownership.
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Review effectiveness and keep it current
Document results, check impact and respond to relevant changes.
FAQ
Common questions, answered directly.
Who is responsible for the risk assessment?
The employer is responsible and may obtain professional advice and support.
Must psychosocial workload be considered?
Psychosocial workload is a potential factor in working conditions. The suitable approach depends on the operational context.
When must the assessment be updated?
Relevant changes or new findings should trigger a check that the assessment and measures still fit. The necessary reviews depend on working conditions and the applicable requirements.
Source basis
Sources and further reading.
- Section 5 ArbSchG – assessment of working conditions Bundesministerium der Justiz / Bundesamt für Justiz
- Section 6 ArbSchG – documentation Bundesministerium der Justiz / Bundesamt für Justiz
- BAuA – risk assessment Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin
- City of Hamburg – risk assessment portal Freie und Hansestadt Hamburg