Week Two of National Safe Work Month: Risk Assessments Explained

In continuation of National Safe Work Month, we’re championing ‘safety: every job, every day’ as our theme this October. After highlighting the importance of hazard identification last week, we now focus on assessing risks in week two.

An integral part of any WHS management system, risk assessment involves understanding potential consequences if a worker is exposed to a hazard and estimating its likelihood. This process aids in determining the severity of a risk, effectiveness of current control measures, and necessary actions for risk reduction. It also prioritises the urgency of these actions—a step that prepares us for risk control discussion in week three.

Our resource kit includes templates that simplify working out the severity and probability of harm from each identified hazard—critical components of efficient Bluesafe SWMS implementation.

Risk assessment processes can exhibit varied levels of detail based on the nature of the hazard and available resources, information, and data. The task could be as effortless as having discussions with your employees, or it might necessitate application of specific risk analysis tools and techniques designed for certain types of hazards or recommended by safety professionals. Moreover, expert advice could greatly aid the risk assessment process for more complex circumstances.

This National Safe Work Month, leverage the power of a well-structured Bluesafe WHS Management System to ensure ‘safety: every job, everyday’. Don’t forget to visit our website regularly and connect with us on social media for more activities, tips, and resources aimed at fostering safe work environments.

Original article link: https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/media-centre/national-safe-work-month-2025-week-2