What is a risk assessment?

A risk assessment is fundamentally a process designed to identify hazards and evaluate the potential risks associated with them in a particular environment or situation. This involves systematically examining the workplace for any potential sources of harm and considering who might be affected by these hazards. The assessment not only identifies what those hazards are but also analyses the likelihood of incidents occurring and the potential severity of their impact.

By conducting a risk assessment, organizations can implement appropriate measures to mitigate those risks. This is essential for promoting a safe working environment and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. Risk assessments are foundational for fostering a culture of safety and ensuring that proactive steps are taken to minimize accidents and injuries.

The other options, while related to workplace practices, do not capture the essence of a risk assessment. Documenting employee performance, enforcing workplace rules, or determining employee satisfaction do not pertain to the identification and evaluation of hazards in a health and safety context.