Formal Risk Assessment

template risk assessment form

Activity Use of flexible shaft drill.

Hazard identification

1. The main risk is eye damage: the small drills and other tools sometimes break or grab the workpiece, and small tool fragments or the workpiece (if very small) can fly off at high speed in any direction. Grinding and polishing wheels can also send small particles of grit flying off. As the tools and parts are small, this is most significant for those very close.
2. Additionally, polishing can generate fine dust which should not be inhaled as it can be damaging with extensive exposure. Action: users should use a face mask when polishing.
3. Using the drill involves rapidly spinning drills and other tools close to one's fingers. Action: users need to take care to hold and support the drill and workpiece appropriately.

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 1.

Initial assessment of risk Hazard identified Severity Probability Risk Factor

• Hazard 1: Severity 3 Probability 2 = Severity x probability 6
• Hazard 2: Severity 2 Probability 2 = Severity x probability 4
• Hazard 3: Severity 2 Probability 2 = Severity x probability 4

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 moderate. Further measures are needed to reduce the risk to an acceptable level.

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

• Hazard 1: users and nearby spectators must wear eye protection, whenever the drill is running.
• Hazard 2: users should wear a face mark when polishing.
• Hazard 3: users must take due care, as with other powered small machine tools.

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

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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