Formal Risk Assessment: Fine Metalwork Hand Tools and Silver Soldering

Activity Use of fine metalwork bench hand tools (jeweller's saws, files, hammers, pliers, tweezers) and silver soldering.

Hazard identification

1. The risks from use of the hand tools are minor cuts and bruises from misuse.
2. The most likely risk from soldering is that of minor burns, from accidentally picking up a hot object or misdirecting the flame.
3. There is also a minor risk from misusing the pickle (a mild corrosive, used warm), especially from the possibility of eye damage from spashes if hot objects are dropped directly into it.
4. There is a low-probability risk of fire from misuse of the torch or lighter gas canister.

Persons at risk Consider who might be put at risk by the hazards listed above

• The user is subject to 1, 2, and 3.
• Nearby spectators, closely observing the work, are subject to 2 and 3.
• The space and all occupants are subject to 4.

Initial assessment of risk Hazard identified Severity Probability Risk Factor

• Hazard 1: Severity 2 Probability 2 = Severity x probability 4
• Hazard 2: Severity 2 Probability 2 = Severity x probability 4
• Hazard 3: Severity 3 Probability 1 = Severity x probability 3
• Hazard 4: Severity 5 Probability 1 = Severity x probability 5

Categorising the risk level as 1-5(Low), 6-11(Moderate) and 12-25(High) shows that the potential level of risk in this activity is low. Further measures are nonetheless in place to further reduce the risk, as below.

Control measures Necessary control measures arising from the hazards identified are:

• Hazards 1,2,3,4: users should have appropriate training in correct use of hand tools and gas torch.

These will be ensured by appropriate training at induction time.

Final assessment of risk The assessed risk taking into account the implementation of the control measures listed, and adherence to the SSOW (Safe System of Work) if applicable is as follows:

Hazard identified Severity Probability Risk

• Hazard 1: Severity 2 Probability 1 = Severity x Probability 2
• Hazard 2: Severity 2 Probability 1 = Severity x Probability 2
• Hazard 3: Severity 3 Probability 1 = Severity x Probability 3
• Hazard 4: Severity 5 Probability 1 = Severity x Probability 5

When completing Risk Assessment please consider the if First Aid assistance might be appropriate if the calculated Risk level (Severity x Probability) is greater than 5

The risk now falls into the category low and is considered to be acceptable.

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