Checklist: Risk assessment before experiment or workshop task
Think the hazard through before you start — according to prevention principles
A risk assessment does not need to be long to work. The important thing is that you think through the danger before you act and choose precautions low on the prevention ladder — that is remove or replace the danger before you rely on protective equipment. Use this template every time.
§Step 1 — Identify hazards
- 01What chemicals are involved, and what do their hazard markings (pictograms, H- and P-statements) say?
- 02Are there machines, heat, pressure, electricity, or sharp objects involved?
- 03Can splashing, fumes, dust, noise or fire occur?
- 04What is the worst that can go wrong in each step?
§Step 2 — Choose measures in right order
- 01Can the danger be removed completely — can the task be solved in a less dangerous way?
- 02Can a dangerous substance or dangerous method be replaced with a milder one (substitution)?
- 03What technical measures are needed — fume hood, shielding, extraction?
- 04What personal protective equipment is required as a last resort, and do they fit this specific task?
§Step 3 — Check preparedness
- 01Where are eyewash stations, eye wash, first aid and fire extinguisher?
- 02How is an alarm raised if something goes wrong?
- 03What does the safety data sheet say about first aid for these specific substances?
- 04Does everyone in the group know what to do in case of an accident?
§Step 4 — Afterwards
- 01Have chemicals and waste been disposed of as instructed and correctly sorted?
- 02Has equipment been cleaned and machines switched off and put away?
- 03Should an accident or near-miss be reported so others avoid it?