Why Risk Assessment Matters: HSE’s Five‑Step Process
Why Risk Assessment Matters: HSE’s Five‑Step Process
The UK Health & Safety Executive (HSE) outlines a simple, yet essential five-step framework employers must follow under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999:
- Identify hazards: Look for anything that could cause injury or ill-health—from machinery and chemicals to manual handling and stress
- Assess the risks: Evaluate who might be harmed, how, and how likely and serious the harm could be
- Control the risks: Eliminate hazards where possible or minimise them using practical measures, informed by the ALARP principle (as low as reasonably practicable)
- Record findings: If you employ five or more people, document key risks and control measures
- Review and update: Periodically revisit your assessments—especially after accidents, process changes, new equipment, or feedback from staff
HSE emphasises that this is not just paperwork—it’s about practical risk control in real settings.
Advantages of a Digital Health & Safety App Like the Compliance Genie
Moving from paper to a digital platform like the Compliance Genie offers major benefits across all five stages:
- Faster Hazard Identification
Instantly use checklists on a tablet or mobile to log hazards as you walk the site or workplace.
Photos, GPS, and timestamps add context and clarity—no more vague notes
- Smarter Risk Assessment
Choose from templates aligned with HSE guidance.
The system guides users: “Who’s at risk?”, “What’s the severity?”, “What control is needed?”, making compliance systematic.
- Enhanced Control Tracking
Assign actions, set deadlines, and track completion—no risk of things slipping through.
Real-time dashboards show you where follow-up is needed
- Effortless Record-Keeping
Auto-save assessments, incident reports, and equipment logs.
All digital records are searchable, exportable and assigned QR codes—ideal for audits and legal compliance
- Ongoing Review & Accountability
Scheduled reminders prompt you to re-assess hazards.
Analytics reveal trends or recurring issues so you can act before injuries occur
Broader Benefits of Digital Compliance Tools
- Streamlined Compliance: Automated processes reduce human error and administrative time.
- Enhanced Risk Management: Real‑time data supports proactive hazard control.
- Improved Transparency: Everyone can see what’s been logged, who owns actions, and what’s next.
- Cost Savings: Fewer fines, injuries, and insurance costs; plus, higher productivity and morale.
Bonus Features That Add Value
- Beyond pure risk assessment, Compliance Genie includes:
- Incident reporting with root‑cause logging and corrective action plans
- Induction checklists—sign off via mobile device ensures consistent training
- Equipment & vehicle checks—scheduled inspections with audit trails
- Document distribution & acknowledgements—send updates and get signed receipts
Final Take
HSE’s five-step risk assessment process provides a solid regulatory framework for managing workplace hazards. However, relying on paper systems often results in gaps, delays, and missed opportunities for valuable insights. Digital tools like the Compliance Genie automate and professionalise each step—making your workplace safer, more efficient, and fully compliant.
Adopt smart digital safety management today—turn risk into readiness, and compliance into confidence with Compliance Genie. Book a demo HERE!