Free Risk Assessment Form Templates

Create a Risk Assessment in 4 easy to use steps

Free Risk Assessment Templates — Ready-Made, Customisable & HSE-Compliant

Choose from over 1,800+ ready-made risk assessment templates below, or start a blank risk assessment form and build your own using our built-in hazard library. Each template follows HSE best-practice guidance with pre-filled hazards, risk ratings, and control measures — simply review, customise to your workplace, and download as a professional PDF. Suitable for all industries and activities.

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TypeDocument TitleAction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Storage of Paper, Records and Archives Fire Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free fire risk assessment template for paper archives. Includes hazards, controls and compliance notes for offices and records centres.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
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Storm Damage and Fallen Tree Clearance Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a storm damage and fallen tree clearance risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
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Stray Animal Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free stray animal risk assessment template with hazards, controls and legal compliance for public areas. Editable PDF for security teams.Category: Security and Public Safety
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Street Lighting Column Installation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a street lighting column installation risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and UK compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
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Street Lighting Column Installation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a street lighting column installation risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and UK compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
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Street Stewarding Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free street stewarding and event marshalling risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: Security and Public Safety
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Street Works Excavation and Reinstatement Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free street works excavation risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
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Stress and Workload Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a stress and workload risk assessment template for teaching staff. Includes hazards, controls and compliance with MHSWR 1999.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
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Stress, Fatigue and Mental Health in Farming Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a farming stress, fatigue and mental health risk assessment template, tailored for farmers and contractors with practical controls.Category: Agriculture and Farming
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Strimmer Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree strimmer risk assessment template with hazards, controls, and PPE. Download PDF, HSE‑compliant for landscaping and garden work.Category: Construction
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Strimming and Brushcutting Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free strimming and brushcutting risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for landscaping professionals.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
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Strip Out Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree strip out risk assessment template. Covers asbestos, silica dust, manual handling, electrical, collapse, noise & more. HSE‑compliant, download PDF.Category: Construction
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Student Accommodation Security Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free student accommodation security risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for housing managers.Category: Security and Public Safety
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Student Kitchen Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a student kitchen risk assessment template with hazards, controls and fire safety compliance. Editable PDF for university halls.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
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Student Placements and Work-Based Learning Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a student placements risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for universities and colleges.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
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Student Union Bar and Licensed Venue Risk AssessmentFREEPDFComprehensive risk assessment for university bars covering crowd management, glass safety, alcohol‑related harm and fire evacuation with legal references.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
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Stump Grinding Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free stump grinding risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for landscaping work.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
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Sugar Confectionery Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free sugar confectionery risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for food manufacturers.Category: Food Industry
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Suicide Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free suicide risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for workplaces.Category: Occupational Health & Welfare
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Sun and UV Exposure Risk Assessment for Agriculture and FarmingFREEPDFDownload a sun and UV exposure risk assessment for outdoor farm workers. Includes skin cancer controls, sunscreen guidance, shade provision and compliance no...Category: Agriculture and Farming
RISK ASSESSMENT
Supermarkets and Convenience Stores Fire Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free fire risk assessment template for supermarkets and convenience stores. Includes hazards, controls, and compliance with fire safety regulations.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
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Supervising Detained Persons Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree template with hazards, controls and compliance for supervising detainees in custody areas. Download PDF now.Category: Security and Public Safety
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Supervising Trainee TM Operatives Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free risk assessment template for supervising trainee traffic management operatives on highways. Includes hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Traffic Management
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Supervision Ratios and Headcounts Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a supervision ratios and headcounts risk assessment template for early years settings. Includes EYFS 2024 ratio compliance, hazards and controls.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
RISK ASSESSMENT
Supporting Pupils with Complex and Life-Limiting Conditions Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a risk assessment template for supporting pupils with complex and life‑limiting conditions. Includes hazards, controls and Equality Act compliance.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
RISK ASSESSMENT
Surface and Cylindrical Grinding Machines Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free grinding machine risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for manufacturing.Category: Manufacturing
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Surface Dressing and Chip Sealing Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free surface dressing and chip sealing risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for road works.Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
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Surface Preparation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree surface preparation risk assessment template. Includes hazards for power washing, abrasive blasting, chemical cleaning, manual handling. HSE‑compliant, download PDF.Category: Construction
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Sushi and Raw Fish Preparation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free sushi and raw fish preparation risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for restaurants.Category: Food Industry
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Suspended Ceiling Installation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree suspended ceiling installation risk assessment template. Includes hazards, controls, downloadable PDF. HSE‑compliant for construction projects.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Suspicious Packages Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free suspicious packages risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance. Editable for venues and public spaces.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Swimming Pool and Water-Based Visits Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a swimming pool risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance for school trips.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
RISK ASSESSMENT
Swimming Pool Plant and Water Treatment Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a swimming pool plant and water treatment risk assessment template with hazards, controls and COSHH compliance for schools.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
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Switchgear Operation and Maintenance Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free switchgear operation and maintenance risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Electrical
RISK ASSESSMENT
Table Saw Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree table saw risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance. Download PDF for workshops and construction.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Tablet Pressing and Coating Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free tablet pressing and coating risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, control measures and compliance notes for pharma manufacturing.Category: Manufacturing
RISK ASSESSMENT
Tachograph Compliance and Driver-Hours Limits Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree tachograph compliance risk assessment template. Pre-filled hazards for driver fatigue, data loss, legal penalties. HSE‑compliant, download PDF.Category: Fleet & Logistics
RISK ASSESSMENT
Tack Coat and Bitumen Emulsion Spraying Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a tack coat and bitumen emulsion spraying risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for roadworks.Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
RISK ASSESSMENT
Takeaway and Drive-Through Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free takeaway and drive‑through risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable for food service s...Category: Food Industry
RISK ASSESSMENT
Takeaways and Fast-Food Outlets Fire Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free fire risk assessment template for takeaways and fast‑food outlets with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
RISK ASSESSMENT
Tandoori and Clay Oven Operations Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free tandoori and clay oven risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for catering kitchens.Category: Food Industry
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Tank and Silo Filling and Discharge Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free tank and silo filling and discharge risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for manufac...Category: Manufacturing
RISK ASSESSMENT
Tanker and Bulk Tank Loading and Unloading Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free tanker and bulk tank loading and unloading risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for manufacturing.Category: Manufacturing
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Tap and Mixer Installation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free tap and mixer installation risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF.Category: Plumbing
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Tarmac Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free HSE‑compliant tarmac (asphalt laying) risk assessment template. Includes hazards, controls, and risk matrix for road works.Category: Construction
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Tarmacking Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free tarmacking risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for construction sites.Category: Construction
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Taxi Marshalling Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free taxi marshalling risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for transport operators.Category: Security and Public Safety
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Telehandler Operation in Roadworks Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free telehandler risk assessment template for roadworks. Includes pre‑filled hazards, control measures and compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
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Telehandler Operation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a telehandler operation risk assessment template for farms, with hazards, controls and LOLER compliance.Category: Agriculture and Farming
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Telehandler Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree telehandler risk assessment template. Includes hazards for boom tip‑over, load stability, overhead lines, attachments and ground conditions. Download PDF.Category: Construction
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Telehandler Use in Landscaping Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free telehandler risk assessment template for landscaping. Includes hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for site use.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
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Temperature Monitoring Cold Chain Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free temperature monitoring cold chain risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and UK regulatory compliance notes.Category: Food Industry
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Temporary Events and Outdoor Sites Fire Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free fire risk assessment template for temporary events and outdoor sites. Includes hazards, controls and compliance notes for safe event planning.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
RISK ASSESSMENT
Temporary Footway and Pedestrian Management Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free footway and pedestrian management risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and UK traffic signs compliance.Category: Traffic Management
RISK ASSESSMENT
Temporary One-Way System Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free temporary one-way system risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF for traffic mana...Category: Traffic Management
RISK ASSESSMENT
Temporary Overflow Storage Impacting Fire/Egress Routes Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree risk assessment template for temporary overflow storage affecting fire routes. Includes hazards, controls, and compliance info. Download PDF.Category: Fleet & Logistics
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Temporary Overflow Storage Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free temporary overflow storage risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, control measures and compliance notes for logistics sites.Category: Fleet & Logistics
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Temporary Pedestrian and School Crossing Management Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free temporary pedestrian and school crossing management risk assessment template. Includes hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Traffic Management
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Temporary Road Closures and Diversions Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free temporary road closures risk assessment template with hazards, controls and legal references. Fully editable for traffic management operatives.Category: Traffic Management
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Temporary Road Marking Removal Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free temporary road marking removal risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: Traffic Management
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Temporary Road Marking Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free temporary road marking risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for high‑speed road works.Category: Traffic Management
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Temporary Safety Barrier Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free temporary safety barrier risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable for traffic management operatives.Category: Traffic Management
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Temporary Site Electrical Supplies (110V) Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree 110V temporary electrical supplies template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: Electrical
RISK ASSESSMENT
Temporary Speed Limit and Average Speed Camera Setup Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free temporary speed limit and camera risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for teams.Category: Traffic Management
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Temporary Structures Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free temporary structures risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for stages, marquees and grandstands.Category: Security and Public Safety
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Temporary Traffic Management Site Inspection, Maintenance and Replacing Displaced Equipment Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRisk assessment for TM operatives inspecting, maintaining and replacing displaced traffic management equipment – hazards, controls and legal compliance.Category: Traffic Management
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Temporary Traffic Signal Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free temporary traffic signal risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for traffic management crews.Category: Traffic Management
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Temporary Works Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree temporary works risk assessment template. Pre-filled hazards for scaffolding, shoring, formwork & more. HSE‑compliant, download PDF.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Textile and Clothing Manufacturers Fire Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free fire risk assessment template for textile and clothing manufacturers. Includes hazards, control measures, and compliance notes.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
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Textile and Clothing Manufacturing Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free textile and clothing manufacturing risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, control measures and compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: Manufacturing
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Textiles, Sewing Machines and Irons Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a textiles, sewing machines and irons risk assessment template with hazards, controls and PUWER compliance. Editable PDF for schools.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
RISK ASSESSMENT
Theft of Plant Components Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free theft of plant risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for construction and plant hire.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Theme Park and Activity Centre Visits Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a theme park and activity centre visits risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for schools.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
RISK ASSESSMENT
Thermographic Survey of Electrical Systems Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free thermographic survey electrical systems risk assessment template with pre-filled hazards, controls, and compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: Electrical
RISK ASSESSMENT
Threading and Tapping Machines Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free threading and tapping machine risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for manufacturing...Category: Manufacturing
RISK ASSESSMENT
Three-Phase Power Installation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free three‑phase power installation risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for electricians.Category: Electrical
RISK ASSESSMENT
Tile Cutter (Electric) Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree electric tile cutter risk assessment template. Includes hazards, controls, and safety measures for cutting ceramic, porcelain, and stone tiles. Download PDF, HSE‑compliant.Category: Construction
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Tiling Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree tiling risk assessment template. Covers hazards like manual handling, electric cutters, adhesives, slip risks and more. Download PDF for construction projects.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Tilting Kettle & Bratt Pan Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free tilting kettle and bratt pan risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for bulk catering.Category: Food Industry
RISK ASSESSMENT
Tipper Lorry and Wagon Tipping Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free tipper lorry and wagon tipping risk assessment template for roadworks. Includes hazards, controls, and compliance notes.Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
RISK ASSESSMENT
TMA-Protected Mobile and Rolling Works Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free TMA-Protected Mobile and Rolling Works risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Traffic Management
RISK ASSESSMENT
Toilet and Sanitary Facilities Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free toilet and sanitary facilities risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: General
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Toilet Training Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a toilet training risk assessment template with hazards, controls and EYFS compliance for early years settings.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
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Tool and Equipment Theft Prevention Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free risk assessment template to protect tools and equipment from theft in work vehicles. Includes controls and legal compliance.Category: Security and Public Safety
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Tool and Small Equipment Theft Prevention Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free tool and small equipment theft risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for construction...Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Tooling, Die & Mould Making Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free tooling, die and mould making risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for manufacturing.Category: Manufacturing
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Toolmaker Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free toolmaker and tool setter risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for manufacturing.Category: Manufacturing
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Topiary Pruning Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free topiary pruning risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for landscapers.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
RISK ASSESSMENT
Torque Wrench Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree torque wrench risk assessment template. Includes hazards, controls, noise, vibration, battery safety for construction and maintenance. Download PDF.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Tower Scaffold Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free tower scaffold risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for landscaping and outdoor maintenance.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
RISK ASSESSMENT
Tower Scaffolds Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree tower scaffolds risk assessment template with pre-filled hazards and control measures. HSE compliant, fully editable and shareable for construction and maintenance.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Tractor and Vehicle Overturning on Slopes Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRisk assessment for tractor and vehicle overturning on slopes, with hazards, controls and PUWER compliance for farm use.Category: Agriculture and Farming
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Tractor Front Loader and Bucket Work Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a tractor front loader and bucket risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and UK compliance notes for farming. Editable PDF.Category: Agriculture and Farming
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Tractor Implements Coupling Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a tractor implements coupling risk assessment template with hazards, controls and PUWER compliance. Editable PDF for farmers.Category: Agriculture and Farming
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Tractor Operation and Safe Stop Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a tractor operation risk assessment template with hazards, controls and PUWER compliance. Editable PDF for farmers and contractors.Category: Agriculture and Farming
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Traffic Management Briefing Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree template to brief TM crew on traffic plans and RAMS – includes hazards, controls, and compliance notes.Category: Traffic Management
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Traffic Management Operative Competence Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree traffic management operative competence risk assessment template – verify NHSS 12 cards, match skills to road type, ensure compliance with TSM Chapter 8.Category: Traffic Management
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Traffic Management Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree traffic management risk assessment template. Pre-filled hazards for vehicle routes, pedestrian safety, demountable containers. HSE‑compliant, download PDF.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Traffic Management Roundabout Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free traffic management roundabout risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: Traffic Management
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Traffic Management Supervisor Duties Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free traffic management supervisor duties risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF.Category: Traffic Management

How to choose the right risk assessment template

  1. Browse by industry or category

    Use the search box or category filter to find a template that matches your workplace, activity, or industry.

  2. Open the template

    Click "Create" to open the template in our free interactive 4-step Risk Assessment generator with the HSE 5x5 risk matrix.

  3. Customise hazards and controls

    Edit risks, control measures, persons at risk, and severity ratings to match your specific workplace operation.

  4. Download as a professional HSE-compliant PDF

    Sign, then download as a PDF ready for compliance, audit, or sharing with your team.

Frequently asked questions

Are these risk assessment templates really free to download?

Yes — completely free. Over 1889 free UK risk assessment templates, free to use forever, no signup required for guests, no paywall. Customise to your workplace and download as a professional HSE-compliant PDF in minutes.

Can I download risk assessment templates in PDF or Word format?

Risk assessments download as a professional, HSE-compliant PDF — ready to print and file as-is. Word (.docx) export is not available for risk assessments, but you can fully customise every hazard, control measure, persons-at-risk entry and rating online before you download.

Are the risk assessment templates HSE-compliant?

Yes. Every template aligns with HSE guidance and the HSE 5-Step Risk Assessment process. They cover the requirements of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, COSHH 2002, Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, Work at Height Regulations 2005, and other relevant UK regulations.

What industries do the risk assessment templates cover?

Every UK industry — painting, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, carpentry, concrete, solar panel installation, asbestos, scaffolding, working at height, manual handling, fall protection, hot works, confined space entry, lifting operations, kitchen fitting, drywall, tiling, plastering, and many more.

What's the difference between a risk assessment form and a risk assessment template?

A risk assessment form is the blank document; a risk assessment template is a pre-filled form ready to customise. Our generator gives you both — a free interactive form you fill in plus over 1889 pre-written templates you can customise to your specific workplace.

Do I need to create an account to use the risk assessment templates?

No — guests can generate and download risk assessments for free without signing up. Register a free account if you want to save documents to your dashboard, edit them later, or share them for digital signatures.

Can I customise the risk assessment templates to my workplace?

Yes — fully. Edit hazards, control measures, persons at risk, likelihood and severity ratings, PPE requirements, and review schedules. Each template is a starting point you tailor to your specific operation.

How many risks can I add to a single risk assessment?

The number of risks (hazards) you can include in one assessment depends on your plan: guests get unlimited risks, Free accounts unlimited risks, Standard unlimited risks, Pro unlimited risks, and Enterprise unlimited risks per assessment. You can add and preview every risk in a template, then tick the ones to include up to your plan limit — upgrade any time for more. See our pricing page for the full plan comparison.

Are these risk assessment templates valid for UK construction work?

Yes. Our construction-specific risk assessment templates align with HSE construction guidance, the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015), and the Work at Height Regulations 2005. Templates cover scaffolding, working at height, concrete pouring, excavation, roofing, electrical installation, and more.

How often should I update my risk assessment?

Whenever there is reason to believe the assessment is no longer valid — after workplace changes, near-misses, accidents, new equipment, new substances, or new processes. HSE guidance recommends an annual formal review at minimum.

What is the HSE 5-step risk assessment process?

Step 1: Identify the hazards. Step 2: Decide who might be harmed and how. Step 3: Evaluate the risks and decide on precautions. Step 4: Record findings and implement them. Step 5: Review the assessment and update if necessary. Our interactive generator walks you through all 5 steps.

Can I use these risk assessment templates for self-employed work?

Yes. Self-employed workers are required to assess risks to themselves and anyone affected by their work. Our templates are suitable for sole traders, contractors, and small businesses.

Do you have RIDDOR-aligned risk assessment templates?

Yes. Several templates cover RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013) requirements — including accident reporting and investigation risk assessments. All RA templates support incident logging and review.

Get Started — Create Your Free Risk Assessment in 4 Easy Steps

What Is a Risk Assessment?

A risk assessment is a systematic process of identifying hazards in the workplace, evaluating the likelihood and severity of harm, and determining the appropriate control measures to reduce risk to an acceptable level. It is a legal requirement under UK health and safety law and forms the foundation of any effective safety management system. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) defines a risk assessment as “simply a careful examination of what, in your work, could cause harm to people, so that you can weigh up whether you have taken enough precautions or should do more to prevent harm.” Every employer, self-employed person, and contractor with five or more employees must record their risk assessments in writing.

Why Do You Need a Risk Assessment?

Risk assessments are not just good practice — they are a legal obligation. Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSWA), employers have a general duty to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of their employees and anyone affected by their work activities. The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (MHSWR) make this more specific by requiring employers to:
  • Carry out a suitable and sufficient risk assessment of the risks to employees and others
  • Implement preventive and protective measures based on the assessment findings
  • Appoint competent persons to assist with health and safety arrangements
  • Provide appropriate training and information to employees about risks and control measures
  • Review and update assessments whenever there is reason to suspect they are no longer valid
Failure to conduct adequate risk assessments can lead to enforcement action by the HSE, including improvement notices, prohibition notices, and prosecution. Under the Sentencing Guidelines for Health and Safety Offences, fines for serious breaches can reach millions of pounds, with custodial sentences possible for the most serious failures.

The HSE 5-Step Risk Assessment Process

The HSE recommends a straightforward 5-step approach to risk assessment that our free risk assessment generator is designed to follow: Step 1: Identify the Hazards Walk around your workplace and look at what could reasonably be expected to cause harm. Consider activities, processes, substances, equipment, and working conditions. Our generator includes a library of over 100 pre-populated risk templates covering common hazards across construction, healthcare, transport, manufacturing, and general workplace environments. Step 2: Decide Who Might Be Harmed and How For each hazard, identify who could be affected — employees, contractors, visitors, members of the public, or vulnerable groups such as young workers, pregnant employees, or those with disabilities. Consider how the harm could occur and the potential severity. Step 3: Evaluate the Risks and Decide on Control Measures Assess the likelihood and severity of each risk using a risk matrix. Our generator automatically calculates risk ratings and provides suggested control measures following the hierarchy of controls: elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Step 4: Record Your Findings and Implement Them Document your assessment, communicate the findings to employees, and put control measures in place. Our generator produces a professional, fully formatted risk assessment document that you can save, share electronically, and collect digital signatures from workers to confirm they have read and understood the assessment. Step 5: Review and Update Regularly Risk assessments are living documents. Review them when work practices change, after an incident, when new equipment or substances are introduced, or at least annually. Our platform stores your assessments in your user dashboard so you can easily update and re-issue them.

Who Needs a Risk Assessment?

Every employer in the UK must conduct risk assessments, regardless of industry or business size. Specific regulations also require risk assessments for particular activities and situations, including: Self-employed workers, landlords, and anyone managing non-domestic premises also have legal duties to assess risks. Our free risk assessment templates cover all these scenarios and more.

Why Use Our Free Risk Assessment Generator?

Our online risk assessment generator simplifies the entire process. Instead of starting from a blank template, you can:
  • Choose from over 100 pre-built risk templates with defined hazards, risks, and control measures
  • Customise every detail — add your own risks, edit control measures, and tailor the assessment to your specific workplace
  • Automatic risk calculation — our built-in risk matrix calculates severity, likelihood, and residual risk scores
  • Add your company logo for professional, branded documents
  • Collect digital signatures — share assessments with workers and collect electronic sign-offs, with up to 100 signatures per document for free users
  • Export to PDF — download professional documents ready for site files, audits, or client submissions
  • Save and manage — store all your assessments in your dashboard, update them anytime, and track review dates
Whether you are a sole trader completing your first risk assessment or a safety manager creating RAMS for a construction project, our generator saves time while ensuring your assessments meet HSE best-practice guidance and UK regulatory requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Risk Assessments

What must a risk assessment include?

A suitable and sufficient risk assessment must identify the hazards present in the workplace, determine who might be harmed and how, evaluate the likelihood and severity of harm, record the existing control measures in place, and identify any additional actions needed to reduce risk. Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, employers with five or more employees must record the significant findings of their assessment in writing. Our risk assessment generator guides you through each of these elements step by step.

How often should a risk assessment be reviewed?

There is no fixed legal timeframe for reviewing risk assessments, but the HSE recommends reviewing them whenever there is a significant change — such as new equipment, substances, processes, or staff — or after an accident, incident, or near miss. As good practice, most organisations review risk assessments at least annually. Our generator includes a review date feature so you can set reminders and track when assessments are due for review.

Do I need a risk assessment if I am self-employed?

Yes. Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, self-employed workers must conduct risk assessments if their work activities could pose a risk to others, including clients, members of the public, or workers on shared sites. If you employ anyone else, you must assess risks to your employees. Many clients and principal contractors also require self-employed workers to provide written risk assessments before starting work on site.

What is the difference between a risk assessment and a method statement?

A risk assessment identifies hazards, evaluates risks, and determines control measures. A method statement describes the safe system of work — the step-by-step sequence of how a task should be carried out safely, incorporating the control measures identified in the risk assessment. Together they form a RAMS (Risk Assessment and Method Statement), which is commonly required on construction sites and for high-risk activities. Health & Safety Zone offers both risk assessment and method statement generators.

What is a risk matrix and how does it work?

A risk matrix (also called a risk assessment matrix) is a tool used to evaluate the level of risk by combining the likelihood of a hazard causing harm with the potential severity of that harm. Each factor is scored on a scale (typically 1–5), and the scores are multiplied to give an overall risk rating. Our risk assessment generator uses a built-in risk matrix that automatically calculates risk scores for each hazard, colour-codes them (green, amber, red), and recalculates the residual risk after control measures are applied.

Is this risk assessment generator really free?

Yes. Our risk assessment generator is completely free to use. You can create a free account, generate risk assessments using our pre-populated templates or your own custom risks, add your company logo, collect up to 100 digital signatures per document, and export to PDF — all at no cost. There are no hidden charges, no trial periods, and no credit card required. We also offer free toolbox talk templates, company policy templates, method statement templates, and COSHH assessment templates.

Can I use these risk assessments for a construction site?

Absolutely. Our template library includes comprehensive construction risk assessments covering working at height, excavation, scaffolding, demolition, electrical safety, confined spaces, asbestos, manual handling, plant and machinery, and many more. These templates are designed to meet the requirements of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM) and can be customised to your specific site, activity, and project. You can also create RAMS by pairing a risk assessment with one of our method statement templates.

Calculating Risk Assessments

Establish the Severity (S), Likelihood (L) and Risk Factor (RF) by reference to the Matrix below: RF = S x L 

REMEMBER: The risk rating must be calculated both before and after ERCPD and its resulting controls have been applied. This risk rating helps to identify and prioritise areas that require more to be done to reduce the risk. 

Low risk factor (1-5)  normal safe working methods should suffice. Fine tune controls to further reduce the risk, if possible. 

Medium risk factor (6-12) further improvement to control measures need to be considered to reduce the risk. 

High risk factor (15-25) improve controls now, consider stopping the activity. Seek advice as appropriate.