Free Risk Assessment Form Templates

Create a Risk Assessments in 4 easy to use steps

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

Choose from over 1,400+ 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.

Build a Custom Risk Assessment

Start blank and pick from our hazard library — or write your own risks from scratch.

Start Blank RA →
TypeDocument TitleAction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Brash Chipping and Shredding Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free brash chipping and shredding risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for landscaping. Editable PDF.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
RISK ASSESSMENT
Bread Dough Proving Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free bread dough proving risk assessment template with pre‑filled bakery hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF.Category: Food Industry
RISK ASSESSMENT
Breaking Out Concrete Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree breaking out concrete risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards for dust, noise, vibration, flying debris, manual handling. HSE‑compliant, download PDF.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Breaking Out Road Surfaces Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free breaking out road surfaces risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF for roadworks...Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
RISK ASSESSMENT
Bricklaying Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free bricklaying risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and HSE‑compliant guidance for UK construction sites.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Builders and General Construction Workers Fire Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free fire risk assessment template for builders and construction workers. Includes hazards, controls and compliance with UK fire safety law.Category: Construction, Fire Risk & Hot Works
RISK ASSESSMENT
Builders Merchant Storage Yard Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free builders merchant storage yard risk assessment template with hazards, controls, and compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Building Access Control and Door Security Risk AssessmentFREEPDFComprehensive risk assessment for building access control and door security operations, covering hazards, controls, and compliance.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Building Lockdown Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free building lockdown risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for security teams.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Bulb Planting Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free bulb planting risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for landscaping teams.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
RISK ASSESSMENT
Bulldozer Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree bulldozer risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards for rollover, track pinch points, blade drop, visibility and ground conditions. HSE‑compliant, download PDF.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Burns and Scalds Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free burns and scalds risk assessment template for commercial kitchens. Pre‑filled hazards, controls and legal compliance.Category: Food Industry
RISK ASSESSMENT
Burst and Frozen Pipe Repair Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free burst and frozen pipe repair risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for plumbers.Category: Plumbing
RISK ASSESSMENT
Bus Stop Suspension Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free bus stop suspension and route diversion risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Traffic Management
RISK ASSESSMENT
Butchers and Meat Processing Fire Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree fire risk assessment template for butchers and meat processing. Includes hazards, controls and compliance notes. Download editable PDF.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
RISK ASSESSMENT
Butchery and Meat Cutting Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free butchery and meat cutting risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable for retail and catering.Category: Food Industry
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cable and Metal Theft Prevention Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cable and metal theft prevention risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for sites.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cable Containment Installation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cable containment installation risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for electricians.Category: Electrical
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cable Jointing and Termination Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree cable jointing and termination risk assessment template with hazards, controls and UK legislation compliance.Category: Electrical
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cafés and Coffee Shops Fire Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free fire risk assessment template for cafés and coffee shops, with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cage Loading for Final-Mile Courier Routes Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree cage loading risk assessment template for final‑mile courier routes. Includes hazards, controls, and PDF download for logistics safety.Category: Fleet & Logistics
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cage Loading Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a cage loading risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, control measures and compliance notes for final‑mile courier routes. PDF.Category: Fleet & Logistics
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cake Decorating Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cake decorating risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for bakeries.Category: Food Industry
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cancer Treatment Worker Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free risk assessment template for employees undergoing cancer treatment or in remission. Includes hazards, controls, and legal compliance.Category: Occupational Health & Welfare
RISK ASSESSMENT
Capacity and Queue Control Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free capacity and queue control risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for venue doors.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Capping, Sealing and Closing Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free capping, sealing and closing risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for manufacturing.Category: Manufacturing
RISK ASSESSMENT
Car Park and Path Sweeping Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree car park sweeping risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for landscaping teams.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
RISK ASSESSMENT
Car Park Patrol and Vehicle Crime Prevention Duties Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRisk assessment for security staff patrolling car parks and preventing vehicle crime.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Car Parks and EV Charging Areas Fire Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free Car Parks and EV Charging Areas fire risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
RISK ASSESSMENT
Carbon Monoxide Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free carbon monoxide risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for public spaces.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cardiovascular Condition Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cardiovascular condition risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF for employers.Category: Occupational Health & Welfare
RISK ASSESSMENT
Care Home and Supported-Living Security Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free care home security risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for care providers.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Caretakers, Facilities and Maintenance Staff Fire Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree fire risk assessment template for caretakers, facilities and maintenance staff. Includes hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
RISK ASSESSMENT
Carpenters and Joiners Fire Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree fire risk assessment template for carpenters and joiners. Includes hazards, controls, and compliance with DSEAR and Fire Safety Order.Category: Construction, Fire Risk & Hot Works
RISK ASSESSMENT
Carpentry Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree carpentry risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards, control measures and safety checklist for joiners and woodworkers. Download PDF.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Carpet Laying Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree carpet laying risk assessment template. Pre-filled hazards for manual handling, adhesives, tools, fumes & more. HSE-compliant, download PDF.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Carriageway Inspection and Proving Before Reopening Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free carriageway inspection risk assessment template with hazards, controls and legal compliance. Editable PDF for traffic management crews.Category: Traffic Management
RISK ASSESSMENT
Carvery and Buffet Service Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free carvery and buffet service risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for catering staff.Category: Food Industry
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cash and Valuables Escort Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cash and valuables escort risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cash Handling and Till Operations Risk AssessmentFREEPDFIdentify and control hazards in cash handling and till operations for retail and hospitality businesses.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cash Handling and Till Operations Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRisk assessment for cash handling and till operations, identifying hazards and controls to protect staff and assets.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cash Office and Cash-Counting Duties Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTemplate for assessing cash handling hazards, controls and compliance for cash office staff.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cash Transportation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cash transportation risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable for security firms and ba...Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cash-in-Transit Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cash in transit risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for security firms.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Casino and Licensed Gaming Venue Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free casino security risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, control measures and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
CBRN Incident Response Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree CBRN incident response risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Download editable PDF.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
CCTV Control Room Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free CCTV control room risk assessment template with hazards, controls and legal compliance. Fully editable for security teams.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
CCTV Drainage Survey Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free CCTV drainage survey risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF for plumbing works.Category: Plumbing
RISK ASSESSMENT
CCTV Installation at Height Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free CCTV installation risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, control measures and compliance notes. Editable PDF for security projects.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
CCTV Installation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree CCTV installation risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards for height, electricity, tools & traffic. Download PDF and customise.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
CCTV Installation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free CCTV installation risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF.Category: Electrical
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cellar and Basement Storage Fire Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree cellar and basement storage fire risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF download.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cement Mixer Operation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cement mixer risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable for landscaping maintenance.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cement Mixer Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cement mixer risk assessment template with hazards, controls and scores. Ideal for construction sites and concrete mixing operations.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cemetery Maintenance Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cemetery maintenance risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for grounds staff.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
RISK ASSESSMENT
Central Heating Installation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free central heating risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for plumbers.Category: Plumbing
RISK ASSESSMENT
Central Reserve Working on High Speed Roads Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a central reserve high‑speed roads risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for traffic teams.Category: Traffic Management
RISK ASSESSMENT
Chainsaw Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree chainsaw risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards, controls, and safety guidance for tree felling and timber work. Download PDF.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Chainsaw Use and Forestry Equipment Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free chainsaw and forestry risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards and controls. Editable PDF for arboriculture.Category: General
RISK ASSESSMENT
Channel and Edging Installation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free channel and edging installation risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
RISK ASSESSMENT
Charging and Handling of TM Equipment Batteries Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free traffic‑management battery charging and handling risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for TM cr...Category: Traffic Management
RISK ASSESSMENT
Chassis Twist‑Lock Engagement Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free chassis twist‑lock engagement risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for fleet operators.Category: Fleet & Logistics
RISK ASSESSMENT
Chefs and Commercial Kitchen Staff Fire Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree fire risk assessment template for chefs and commercial kitchen staff. Includes hazards, controls, and compliance with UK fire safety regulations.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
RISK ASSESSMENT
Chemical IBC Loading Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free chemical IBC loading risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for fleet logistics sites.Category: Fleet & Logistics
RISK ASSESSMENT
Chemical Manufacturing Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free chemical manufacturing risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for factories.Category: Manufacturing
RISK ASSESSMENT
Chemical Mixing and Reactions Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free chemical mixing risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for manufacturing. Editable PDF for plant ope...Category: Manufacturing
RISK ASSESSMENT
Chemical Spill Response Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free chemical spill response risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and legal compliance for manufacturing sites.Category: Manufacturing
RISK ASSESSMENT
Chemical Storage Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free chemical storage risk assessment template for food premises. Includes hazards, controls and compliance with COSHH and Food Safety regulations.Category: Food Industry
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cherry Picker Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree cherry picker risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards for boom lifts, tip‑over, electrocution & more. HSE‑compliant, download PDF.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Children’s Play Area Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free children's play area risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for playground operators.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Chilled Food Storage Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free chilled food storage risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for catering and retail.Category: Food Industry
RISK ASSESSMENT
Chilled Food Storage Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free chilled food storage risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for catering and retail.Category: Food Industry
RISK ASSESSMENT
Chocolate Tempering Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free chocolate tempering risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for food manufacturers.Category: Food Industry
RISK ASSESSMENT
Chronic Pain Workers Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free chronic pain workers risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for occupational health.Category: Occupational Health & Welfare
RISK ASSESSMENT
Circular Saw Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free circular saw risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards, controls and PUWER compliance for construction and DIY projects.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cladding Installation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload our free cladding installation risk assessment template. Includes hazards, controls and compliance for building envelope work.Category: Construction
RISK ASSESSMENT
Clean-in-Place Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free clean-in-place risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for food processing. Editable PDF.Category: Food Industry
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cleaners (Flammable Chemical Use and Storage) Fire Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree fire risk assessment template for cleaners handling flammable chemicals. Includes hazards, controls, and compliance with Fire Safety Order 2005.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cleaning and Maintaining TM Equipment Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cleaning and maintaining TM equipment risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable.Category: Traffic Management
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cleaning and Mopping of Tiled Floors Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cleaning and mopping tiled floors risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: Cleaning, General
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cleaning and Sanitising of Toilets and Washrooms Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cleaning and sanitising of toilets risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for facilities managers.Category: Cleaning, General
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cleaning at Height Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cleaning at height risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for cleaning contractors.Category: Cleaning, General
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cleaning Chemicals Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cleaning chemicals risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for workplaces.Category: General
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cleaning Chemicals Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree cleaning chemicals risk assessment template for security staff. Includes hazards, controls and compliance with COSHH regulations.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cleaning High-Level Areas Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree cleaning high‑level areas risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for ceilings, light fittings and vents.Category: Cleaning, General
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cleaning of Blood and Bodily Fluid Spillages Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free blood and bodily fluid spillages risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, control measures and compliance notes for HSE and COSHH.Category: Cleaning, General
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cleaning of Stairwells and Communal Areas Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free stairwell cleaning risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for facilities teams.Category: Cleaning, General
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cleaning Using Chemical Agents Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cleaning chemical risk assessment template with COSHH hazards, control measures and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF for workplaces.Category: Cleaning, General
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cleaning Using Electrical Equipment Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cleaning electrical equipment risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Cleaning, General
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cleaning Walk-In Fridge Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cleaning walk-in fridge risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for food premises.Category: Cleaning, Food Industry, General
RISK ASSESSMENT
Clearing Blockages and Machine Jams Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free clearing blockages risk assessment template with hazards, controls and PUWER compliance. Editable PDF for manufacturing.Category: Manufacturing
RISK ASSESSMENT
Clinical Waste Collection and Transport Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free clinical waste transport risk assessment with hazards, controls and legal compliance for healthcare and waste contractors.Category: Fleet & Logistics
RISK ASSESSMENT
Close Protection Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free close protection risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for security firms and bodyguard teams.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
Closing Time Dispersal Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free closing time dispersal risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for security teams.Category: Security and Public Safety
RISK ASSESSMENT
CNC Machining Centre Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free CNC machining centre risk assessment template with hazards, controls and legal compliance notes. Editable PDF for manufacturers.Category: Manufacturing
RISK ASSESSMENT
CNC Router Operation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free CNC router risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for manufacturing sites.Category: Manufacturing
RISK ASSESSMENT
CNC Turning and Lathe Operation Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free CNC turning and lathe operation risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for manufacturers.Category: Manufacturing
RISK ASSESSMENT
Coil, Bar and Sheet Metal Handling Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free coil, bar and sheet metal handling risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for manufacturing opera...Category: Manufacturing
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cold Store & Chilled/Frozen Risk AssessmentFREEPDFFree cold store risk assessment template for manufacturing. Includes hazards, controls, PUWER and COSHH compliance. Download PDF.Category: Manufacturing
RISK ASSESSMENT
Cold Water Storage Tank Risk AssessmentFREEPDFDownload a free cold water storage tank risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for plumbing projects.Category: Plumbing

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 1498 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 1498 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.