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 2,500+ 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.

Risk Assessment

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TypeDocument TitleAction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFReturns, Refunds & Customer Service Desk Risk AssessmentDownload a returns, refunds and customer service desk risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable for retail en...Category: Retail and Service Industries
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFReverse Logistics and Returns Risk AssessmentFree reverse logistics risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards for unknown package condition, manual handling, hazardous contents. HSE‑compliant, download PDF.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFReverse Vending and Bottle-Return Machines Risk AssessmentDownload a reverse vending machine risk assessment template with retail-specific hazards, controls and PUWER compliance. Editable PDF for shops and supermark...Category: Retail and Service Industries
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFReversing and Manoeuvring TM Vehicles Risk AssessmentDownload a free risk assessment template for reversing and manoeuvring traffic‑management vehicles. Includes hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Traffic Management
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFReversing into Confined Bays Risk AssessmentFree reversing into confined bays risk assessment template. Includes blind‑spot hazards, collision controls, and downloadable PDF for construction and logistics.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFReversing Vehicles Risk AssessmentDownload a reversing vehicles risk assessment template for farms, with hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Agriculture and Farming
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRide On Roller Risk AssessmentFree ride on roller risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards for vibration, run‑over, tip‑over, fumes & more. HSE compliant, download PDF.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRide-On Mower Operation Risk AssessmentDownload a free ride‑on mower operation risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable for landscaping crews.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRigging and Working Over the Audience Risk AssessmentDownload a rigging risk assessment template for concerts and festivals, with hazards, controls and LOLER compliance.Category: Concerts Festivals and Events
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRivet Gun Risk AssessmentFree rivet gun risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards, controls and safety measures for construction and manufacturing. Download PDF.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRiveting and Mechanical Fastening Risk AssessmentDownload a free rivet and mechanical fastening risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for manufacturin...Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoad Closure and Event Risk AssessmentDownload a free road closure risk assessment template with hazards, controls and legal compliance for parades, marathons and public highway events.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoad Construction Risk AssessmentFree road construction risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance – download PDF for UK HSE.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoad Marking and Lining Risk AssessmentDownload a free road marking and lining risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for contractors.Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoad Planing and Cold Milling Risk AssessmentDownload a free road planing and cold milling risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for roadworks.Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoad Rail Sea Intermodal Handover Communication Risk AssessmentFree risk assessment template for road‑rail‑sea intermodal handover communication. Includes hazards, controls, compliance and PDF download.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoad Rail Sea Intermodal Handover Risk AssessmentDownload an intermodal handover risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for logistics teams.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoad Stud and Cat’s Eye Risk AssessmentDownload a free road stud and cat's eye risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for roadworks.Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoad Surface Compaction Risk AssessmentDownload a free road surface compaction risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, control measures and compliance notes. Editable PDF for highway works.Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoad Sweeping and Detritus Removal Risk AssessmentDownload a free road sweeping risk assessment template with hazards, controls and legal compliance notes. Fully editable PDF for contractors.Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoad Traffic Collision Response Risk AssessmentFree road traffic collision response risk assessment template. Includes hazards, controls, and downloadable PDF for emergency responders.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoadside and Mobile Tyre Fitting Risk AssessmentDownload a roadside tyre fitting risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for vehicle services.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoadside Breakdown and Live-Lane Recovery Risk AssessmentFree roadside breakdown risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards for live‑lane recovery, traffic control, fuel spill safety. HSE‑compliant, download PDF.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoadside Breakdown Repair Risk AssessmentDownload a roadside breakdown repair risk assessment with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for motor trade operators.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoadside Jump-Starting Battery Assistance Risk AssessmentDownload a roadside jump‑starting and battery assistance risk assessment template with hazards, controls and legal compliance for recovery operators.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoadworks – Moving, Manoeuvring and Positioning Plant on and Around the Highway – Risk AssessmentRisk assessment for moving, manoeuvring and positioning plant on highways, with controls and legislation references for roadworks teams.Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoadworks Risk AssessmentFree roadworks risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance – download PDF for UK HSE.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRobotic Cell Maintenance Risk AssessmentDownload a free robotic cell maintenance risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and UK compliance notes for manufacturing. Editable PDF.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRobotic Mower Risk AssessmentDownload a free robotic mower risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for landscaping teams.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRobotic Welding Cell Risk AssessmentDownload a free robotic welding cell risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for manufacturing factories.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoll Cages and Cage Trolleys for Retail and Service Industries Risk AssessmentDownload a roll cages and cage trolleys risk assessment template for retail stockrooms. Includes hazards, controls and PUWER compliance.Category: Retail and Service Industries
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoll Forming and Profiling Risk AssessmentDownload a free roll forming risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for manufacturers.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoll-cage Loading onto Tail-lifts Risk AssessmentFree roll-cage loading onto tail-lifts risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards, controls and safety guidance for aviation ground handling. Download PDF.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRolling Road Block Risk AssessmentDownload a free rolling road block risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for 12C lane closures. Editable PDF for traffic manag...Category: Traffic Management
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRolling Road Dynamometer Testing and ECU Remapping Risk AssessmentDownload a rolling road dynamometer testing risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and legal compliance for motor trade workshops.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoof Access Risk AssessmentFree roof access risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards for falls, slips, weather, electrical and more. Download PDF, customise for construction & maintenance.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoof Cleaning and Moss Removal Risk AssessmentDownload a free roof cleaning and moss removal risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for landscaping...Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoof Fall Protection System Risk AssessmentFree roof fall protection system risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards for guardrails, anchor points, safety nets, edge protection. HSE‑compliant, download PDF.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoof Installation Risk AssessmentFree roof installation risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards for flat, pitched and metal roofs, edge protection & weather risks. Download PDF. UK construction.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoof Spaces Risk AssessmentFree roof spaces risk assessment template for lofts and roof voids. Includes hazards, controls, PDF download – HSE compliant.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoof Work Risk AssessmentFree roof work risk assessment template. Pre-filled hazards for flat roofs, pitched roofs, fragile surfaces & edge protection. Download PDF. UK construction.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoofers Fire Risk AssessmentDownload a free roofers fire risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for roofing sites.Category: Construction, Fire Risk & Hot Works
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoofing Hot Works Fire Risk AssessmentDownload a free roofing hot works fire risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for contractors.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoofing Risk AssessmentFree roofing risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards, controls, and legislation for construction roof work. Download PDF.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRoom Access and Master Key Control Risk AssessmentDownload a free room access and master key control risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for security...Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRotavator and Cultivator Operation Risk AssessmentDownload a free rotavator and cultivator risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for landscaping teams.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRough-Terrain Forklift Operation Risk AssessmentDownload a farm‑specific rough‑terrain forklift risk assessment template with hazards, controls and LOLER compliance.Category: Agriculture and Farming
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRound and Big-Square Baling Operations Risk AssessmentDownload a baling risk assessment template for round and big‑square balers. Includes hazards, controls and PUWER compliance for farmers and contractors.Category: Agriculture and Farming
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRouter Risk AssessmentFree router risk assessment template with hazards, controls, and PDF download for woodworking safety.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRubber Manufacturing Risk AssessmentDownload a free rubber manufacturing risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for factories.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRubber Mixing and Calendering Risk AssessmentDownload a free rubber mixing and calendering risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for manufacturing sites.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRural & National Speed Limit Roads Risk AssessmentDownload a free risk assessment template for rural and national speed limit roadworks. Includes hazards, controls, and compliance with NRSWA and PUWER.Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFRural Deliveries on Narrow/Unlit Roads Risk AssessmentFree rural deliveries risk assessment template. Covers narrow unlit roads, wildlife, weather, fatigue. HSE‑compliant, download PDF.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSafe Isolation and Lock‑Off Risk AssessmentDownload a free safe isolation lock off risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for electrical work.Category: Electrical
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSafe Sleep and Sudden Infant Death (SIDS) Prevention Risk AssessmentComprehensive risk assessment for safe sleep and Sudden Infant Death (SIDS) prevention in nurseries, aligned with the EYFS Statutory Framework 2024 and HSE g...Category: Schools and Learning Environments
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSafeguarding Children in Leisure & Fitness Risk AssessmentDownload a safeguarding children risk assessment template for gyms, pools and sports centres. Includes hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Gyms Training and Leisure Facilities
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSafeguarding Children Risk AssessmentDownload a safeguarding children risk assessment template with hazards, controls and KCSIE compliance for schools. Fully editable PDF.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSafeguarding Vulnerable Adults Risk Assessment for Gyms Training and Leisure FacilitiesDownload a safeguarding risk assessment for gyms, pools and leisure facilities, with hazards, controls and Care Act 2014 compliance.Category: Gyms Training and Leisure Facilities
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSafeguarding Vulnerable Customers in Retail Risk AssessmentDownload a safeguarding risk assessment template to protect vulnerable, disabled customers. Includes hazards, controls and Equality Act 2010 compliance.Category: Retail and Service Industries
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSafety Boat and Water Rescue Crew Risk AssessmentDownload a safety boat and water rescue crew risk assessment template for concerts and festivals. Includes hazards, controls and compliance.Category: Concerts Festivals and Events
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSalad and Cold Food Assembly Risk AssessmentDownload a free salad and cold food assembly risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for catering and r...Category: Food Industry
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSalamander Grill Risk AssessmentDownload a free salamander grill risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for commercial kitchens.Category: Food Industry
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSandbag Filling and Handling – Traffic Management Risk AssessmentRisk assessment for traffic‑management operatives handling sandbags, covering manual handling, slips, equipment hazards and control measures.Category: Traffic Management
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSanta’s Grotto and In-Store Christmas Experiences Risk AssessmentDownload a Santa's Grotto risk assessment template for retail events – includes hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Retail and Service Industries
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSatellite Installation Risk AssessmentFree satellite installation risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards for lifts, height work, electrical safety and weather. HSE‑compliant, download PDF.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFScaffold and Grandstand Build Risk AssessmentDownload a scaffold and grandstand build risk assessment template for event crews. Includes hazards, controls and Work at Height Regulations 2005 compliance.Category: Concerts Festivals and Events
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFScaffold Hoist Risk AssessmentFree scaffold hoist risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards and controls for lifting equipment on construction sites. HSE‑compliant, fully editable and shareable.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFScaffold Security Risk AssessmentDownload a free scaffold security risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for site safety.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFScaffolding and Mobile Towers Risk AssessmentDownload a free scaffolding risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for construction sites.Category: General
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFScaffolding Risk AssessmentFree scaffolding risk assessment template for scaffold erection, dismantling and use. Pre-filled hazards for collapse, falls, ties. NASC SG4 compliant. PDF.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSchool and Nursery Cleaning Risk AssessmentDownload a free school cleaning risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for facilities managers.Category: Cleaning, General
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSchool Campus Security Risk AssessmentDownload a free school campus security risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and legal references. Editable PDF for schools and colleges.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSchool Corridors, Stairs and Circulation Risk AssessmentDownload a school corridors risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for schools.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSchool Fete Risk AssessmentDownload a school fete risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, control measures and fire safety compliance. Editable PDF for event organisers.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSchool Kitchen and Catering Risk AssessmentDownload a school kitchen risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for education sites.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSchool Library and Public Access Areas Risk AssessmentDownload a school library risk assessment template covering shelving, trips, manual handling and security. Fully editable PDF for education premises.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSchool Productions Risk AssessmentDownload a school productions risk assessment template with hazards, controls and fire safety compliance. Editable PDF for teachers.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSchool Swimming Lessons and Pool Use Risk AssessmentDownload a school swimming lessons risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for educators.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFScissor Lift Risk AssessmentFree scissor lift risk assessment template with pre-filled hazards and control measures. Fully editable and shareable.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFScooters, Balance Bikes and Wheeled Toys Risk AssessmentDownload a risk assessment template for school playground scooters, balance bikes and wheeled toys. Includes hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFScoreboard, Big-Screen and Gantry Access Risk AssessmentDownload a scoreboard and big‑screen access risk assessment template with hazards, controls and legal compliance for event venues.Category: Concerts Festivals and Events
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFScrap Metal Yard Risk AssessmentDownload a free scrap metal yard risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for security sites.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFScrap Vehicle Crushing Risk AssessmentDownload a free scrap vehicle crushing risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and PUWER compliance notes. Editable PDF for motor‑trade si...Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFScreen Printing and Etching Risk AssessmentDownload a screen printing and etching risk assessment template with hazards, controls and COSHH compliance for schools. Editable PDF for art departments.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFScreen Printing Risk AssessmentDownload a free screen printing risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable for manufacturing sites.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFScreening and Classification Risk AssessmentDownload a free screening and classification risk assessment template for manufacturing. Includes hazards, controls, PUWER, COSHH and DSEAR compliance.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFScrubbers and Effluent Treatment Risk AssessmentDownload a free scrubbers and effluent treatment risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for manufacturing.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFScrubbing and Polishing Concrete Floors Risk AssessmentDownload a free concrete floor scrubbing and polishing risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, control measures, and compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: Cleaning, General
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFScrutineering and Technical Inspection Risk AssessmentDownload a scrutineering and technical inspection risk assessment template with pre-filled hazards, controls and PUWER compliance for motorsport events.Category: Concerts Festivals and Events
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSDS Drill / Rotary Hammer Risk AssessmentFree SDS drill risk assessment template. Includes hazards, controls for vibration, noise, dust & electrical safety. Download PDF.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSeam and Projection Welding Risk AssessmentDownload a free seam and projection welding risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for manufacturing settings.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSearch Procedures for Explosive Devices and Threat Items Risk AssessmentDownload a free search procedures for explosive devices risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for sec...Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSeasonal Decorations and Festive Lighting Fire Risk AssessmentFree fire risk assessment template for seasonal decorations and festive lighting. Includes hazards, controls and legal references.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSeasonal Farm Worker Accommodation Risk AssessmentDownload a seasonal farm worker accommodation risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF.Category: Agriculture and Farming
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSeasonal Migrant and Casual Farm Workers Risk AssessmentComprehensive risk assessment for seasonal, migrant and casual farm workers covering language, induction, machinery, chemicals, welfare and legal compliance.Category: Agriculture and Farming
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSeasonal Peaks and Sale Events Risk AssessmentDownload a seasonal peaks and sale events risk assessment template with retail-specific hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Retail and Service Industries
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSecondary PE and Contact Sports Risk AssessmentDownload a secondary PE and contact sports risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and legal compliance for schools.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSecondary Science Laboratory Risk AssessmentDownload a secondary science laboratory risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for schools.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSecuring and Inspecting Vacant or Unoccupied Premises Risk AssessmentComprehensive risk assessment for security staff inspecting vacant properties. Includes controls for unauthorised entry, trip hazards, and fire risks.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFSecuring Compounds, Containers and Material Storage Risk AssessmentDownload a free securing compounds, containers and material storage risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for se...Category: Security and Public Safety

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 2563 free UK risk assessment templates, free to use forever, 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 2563 pre-written templates you can customise to your specific workplace.

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

You can build and preview a risk assessment without an account. To download the PDF you'll need a free account — it takes less than a minute, costs nothing, and also lets you save documents to your dashboard, edit them later, and 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.