Risk Assessments

As a student at the University of Portsmouth, you may be required to complete a risk assessment.

A risk assessment is an important step in protecting students, employees and the University, as well as complying with the law. It helps you focus on the risks that really matter in your activities, the ones with the potential to cause real harm. In many instances, straightforward measures can readily control risks, for example ensuring spillages are cleaned up promptly so people do not slip, or cupboard drawers are kept closed to ensure people do not trip. For most, that means simple, cheap and effective measures to ensure our most valuable asset, students and staff are protected.

The law does not expect you to eliminate all risk, but you are required to protect people as far as reasonably practicable.

This is not the only way to do a risk assessment; there are other methods that work well, particularly for more complex risks and circumstances. However, we believe this method is the most straightforward for the University.

 

What is risk assessment?

A risk assessment is simply a careful examination of what in your activities could cause harm to people, so that you can weigh up whether you have taken enough precautions or should do more to prevent harm. Students and employees have a right to be protected from harm caused by a failure to take reasonable control measures.

Blank Risk Assessment Form

You can either print off and complete or download and complete electronically. Copies can be kept in either or both formats, but must be made available on request.

Risk Assessment Tool

This tool has been designed to assist in identifying hazards and controls measures, including identifying those people who may be at risk. It is designed to be printed off and taken to a location when you are surveying for hazards (if required).

Acknowledgement of Risk Assessment Form

This form provides confirmation that the relevant people for the task/event/equipment etc have read and understood any and all risk assessment/s that have been carried out.

The key to a successful risk assessment is that it is effectively communicated and everyone understands the risks involved with doing the task and how the risks are going to be controlled.

A good time to do this would be at a team briefing prior to starting the task/event/equipment etc. It is important to discuss the hazards and controls identified in the risk assessment to ensure that it is interpreted correctly and everyone understands what is required of them and what they need to do to avoid an accident or ill health occurring.

 

Email hsservicedesk@port.ac.uk if you have any queries or require further information.