The 5 Steps of a Risk Assessment (HSE Method Explained Simply)
The HSE’s 5-step risk assessment method is widely used across UK workplaces. It helps employers identify hazards, evaluate risks and keep people safe.
The Five Steps
- Identify hazards
- Decide who might be harmed and how
- Evaluate risks and decide on precautions
- Record findings
- Review and update regularly
Why These Steps Work
They provide a repeatable process that can be applied to:
- offices
- workshops
- construction sites
- retail
- care settings
- hospitality
This method forms the foundation of nearly every health & safety document.
Example Risk Assessment Template showing typical sections and layout.
