Be aware of chemical risk assessments

Risk assessment is a process used to determine the level of risk of injury or illness associated with a chemical hazard, for the purpose of control. In determining the level of risk to workers, special attention should be given to factors such as sex, age, disability and reproductive health. All risks should be assessed in consultation with workers and their representatives, and have control priorities assigned, based on the assessed level of risk.

Carrying out a risk assessment involves five steps:

1. Identification of the chemical hazard
2. Identification of who might be harmed and how
3. An evaluation of the risks and how to control them
4. Recoding the results of the assessment and setting up priorities for improvement
5. Reviewing and updating the assessment as necessary

There are many established methods and techniques for carrying out risk assessments. Some use a numerical weighting system to determine priorities for action. For each chemical hazard identified, a numerical value is assigned to the likelihood of the hazard causing harm, as well as to the severity of the consequences. By determining the level of risk associated with each hazard identified in the working environment, employers and workers and their representatives can identify areas for priority action.