Hazard vs Risk: What’s the Difference? (UK Guide)

Although often used interchangeably, hazards and risks mean very different things in health and safety.

Understanding the difference is essential when completing a risk assessment.

What Is a Hazard?

A hazard is anything with the potential to cause harm.

Examples include:

• Slippery floors
• Hazardous substances
• Working at height
• Moving machinery

What Is a Risk?

A risk is the likelihood that the hazard will cause harm, combined with how severe the harm could be.

For example:

• A wet floor (hazard)
• The chance of someone slipping and being injured (risk)

Why the Difference Matters

Risk assessments focus on:

• Identifying hazards
• Assessing the level of risk
• Reducing risks to an acceptable level

Confusing the two can lead to ineffective controls or missed hazards.

The Bottom Line

Hazards cause harm.
Risks measure the chance of harm occurring.
Both must be clearly understood to manage workplace safety properly.