Page 3 of 5 Mechanical hazards (e.g. crushing, shearing, cutting, falling objects, entanglement). Electrical hazards (e.g. short circuit, direct contact, indirect contact, source of ignition). Radiation hazards (e.g. lasers, electro-magnetic effects, ionising/non-ionising radiation). Hazardous substances (e.g. toxic gas/mist/fumes/dust, flammable fluids, biological substances). Work activity hazards (e.g. highly repetitive actions, mental overload/stress, poor workplace design, lifting and handling). Work environment hazards (e.g. noise, vibration, heating, lighting, ventilation). 4.2 List those at risk (people at risk) It is important to consider who may be affected by the risks present. The individuals most likely to be at risk are those that spend the most time in the workplace. However it is equally important to think about people who may not be in the workplace all the time, e.g. cleaners, visitors, contractors etc. It is also important to include members of the public, if there is a chance they could be hurt by WATMOS’ activities. Some categories of workers may require a more detailed assessment because of their condition, including expectant and nursing mothers, disabled people, young people or lone workers. 4.3 Evaluate the risks (Initial Assessment) The next stage of the assessment, once the hazards and people at risk have been identified is to establish the level of risk before any control measures have been put into place. The process is as follows: Rate the likely Severity (S) of any hazard being realised on a scale of 1 to 4 (1 is Negligible, 4 is Extreme or fatal). Establish the likelihood (L) of the hazard being realized on a scale of 1 to 4 (1 is Improbable, 4 is Probable or expected to occur). Multiply the Severity and the Likelihood to give the Risk Factor (R). For example, a Severity of 3 and a Likelihood of 2 would give a risk factor of 6. Assess if the level of risk is acceptable or not. It is important to remember at this stage you are assessing the Risk Factor without any control measures put in place. 4.4 Control Measures Following the evaluation of the initial risks it is then important to review what existing controls are already or are being put in place. When looking at control measures the most important starting point is always to implement the ‘Hierarchy of Control’ (see below), this will assess the different ways a hazard can be reduced or removed. This process also highlights the point that whilst providing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a consideration, as a control measure it should always be down the list of options. The Hierarchy of Control Elimination or avoidance (i.e. does the process/activity etc., have to be carried out?).