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

Build a Custom Risk Assessment

Build your assessment your way — start from a blank template, or add your own risks and control measures from scratch.

Start Blank Risk Assessment
TypeDocument TitleAction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTraffic Management Roundabout Risk AssessmentDownload a free traffic management roundabout risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: Traffic Management
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTraffic Management Supervisor Duties Risk AssessmentDownload a free traffic management supervisor duties risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF.Category: Traffic Management
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTraffic Officer Police Recovery Liaison Risk AssessmentDownload a free traffic officer, police and recovery liaison risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: Traffic Management
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTrailer and Towing (B+E) Training Risk AssessmentDownload a free trailer and towing training risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for motor‑trade instructors.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTrailer Creep Risk AssessmentFree trailer creep risk assessment template. Identify hazards, controls and compliance for loading dock safety. Download PDF and customise for your site.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTrailer Impact Yard Manoeuvres Risk AssessmentFree trailer impact risk assessment template for yard manoeuvres. Includes hazards, controls, compliance. Download PDF.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTrailer Loading and Towing Risk AssessmentDownload a free trailer loading and towing risk assessment template for landscaping. Includes hazards, controls and legal compliance. Editable PDF.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTrailer rollaway during coupling/uncoupling Risk AssessmentFree trailer rollaway risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards for coupling, uncoupling, and vehicle safety. HSE‑compliant, download PDF.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTrailing Cables Risk AssessmentFree trailing cables risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards for trips, electrical shock, fire & manual handling. Download PDF, HSE compliant.Category: Construction, Electrical
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTrainee Traffic Management Operative Risk AssessmentFree trainee traffic management risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance for roadworks crews.Category: Traffic Management
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTraining and Competence Risk AssessmentDownload a free training and competence risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, control measures and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF for workp...Category: General
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTrampoline Park Risk Assessment for Gyms Training and Leisure FacilitiesDownload a trampoline park risk assessment template with hazards, controls and PUWER compliance. Editable PDF for leisure facilities.Category: Gyms Training and Leisure Facilities
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTransporting Farm Machinery Risk AssessmentDownload a transporting farm machinery risk assessment template with hazards, controls and legal compliance for agriculture.Category: Agriculture and Farming
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTravel Between Sites Risk AssessmentDownload a free travel between sites risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for staff commuting security.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTravelling Funfair Risk AssessmentDownload a travelling funfair risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for event operators.Category: Concerts Festivals and Events
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTree Felling and Windblown Timber Risk Assessment for Agriculture and FarmingDownload a tree felling and windblown timber risk assessment template for farms. Includes hazards, controls and PUWER compliance.Category: Agriculture and Farming
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTree Inspection and Survey Risk AssessmentDownload a free tree inspection and survey risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for landscaping teams.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTree Surgeons and Arborists Fire Risk AssessmentDownload a free fire risk assessment for tree surgeons and arborists. Includes hazards, controls, and UK fire safety compliance.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTrespassers Risk AssessmentDownload a free trespassers risk assessment template with hazards, controls and legal compliance for security teams.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTrestles and Staging Risk AssessmentFree trestles and staging risk assessment template. Includes hazards, controls for saw‑horse trestles, staging boards, temporary platforms. HSE‑compliant, download PDF.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTrial Pit Excavation Risk AssessmentDownload a free trial pit excavation risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards, control measures and compliance guidance for construction sites.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTruss, Ground‑Support and Roof Rigging Risk AssessmentDownload a truss rigging risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for concerts and festivals. Editable PDF for product...Category: Concerts Festivals and Events
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTube and Pipe Bending Risk AssessmentDownload a free tube and pipe bending risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for manufacturing. Fully editable PDF.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTumble Dryer and Commercial Laundry Fire Safety Fire Risk AssessmentFree fire risk assessment for tumble dryers and commercial laundry, with hazards, controls and fire safety legislation (Order 2005, BS EN 60335‑2‑36).Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTurf Cutter Risk AssessmentDownload a free turf cutter risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for landscapers.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTurfing and Turf Laying Risk AssessmentDownload a free turfing and turf laying risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for landscapers.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTurnstile, Concourse and Kiosk Operations Risk AssessmentDownload a turnstile, concourse and kiosk operations risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for event staff.Category: Concerts Festivals and Events
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTwo‑Way Radios Risk AssessmentDownload a free two-way radios risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable for security teams.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTyre and Wheel Handling and Heating Risk AssessmentDownload a tyre and wheel handling risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and PUWER compliance for motorsport events.Category: Concerts Festivals and Events
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTyre Fitters Fire Risk AssessmentDownload a free tyre fitters fire risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for workshops.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTyre Inflation and Cage Use Risk AssessmentDownload a tyre inflation risk assessment template with hazards, controls and PUWER compliance for motor‑trade workshops. Editable PDF for tyre fitters.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTyre Inspection Risk AssessmentFree tyre inspection risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards for tyre wear, inflation pressure, cuts and sidewall damage. HSE‑compliant, download PDF. Fleet and construction.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTyre Maintenance Risk AssessmentDownload a free tyre maintenance risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for fleet operators.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFTyre Removal, Fitting & Balancing Risk AssessmentDownload tyre removal, fitting and balancing risk assessment template with hazards, controls and PUWER compliance. Editable PDF for workshops.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUnaccompanied and Lost Children Risk AssessmentDownload a free unaccompanied children risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable for schools, venues and events.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUnattended Retail Restocking and Cash Collection Risk AssessmentDownload a compliant risk assessment for unattended retail restocking and cash collection, covering robbery, manual handling, slips and more.Category: Retail and Service Industries
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUnauthorised Drone Activity Over Premises Risk AssessmentDownload a free risk assessment template for responding to unauthorised drone activity over premises. Includes hazards, controls, compliance with UK legislat...Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUnder-18s and Junior Gym Members Risk AssessmentDownload a risk assessment for under‑18s gym members, covering hazards, controls and key safeguarding legislation.Category: Gyms Training and Leisure Facilities
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUnderground Cable Laying Risk AssessmentDownload a free underground cable laying risk assessment template with hazards, controls and legal references. PDF for contractors.Category: Electrical
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUnderground Services Risk AssessmentFree risk assessment template for working near buried utilities. Includes hazards for electric, gas, water, telecom lines & trench collapse.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUnderground Services Risk Assessment for Agriculture and FarmingDownload an underground services risk assessment template for farms. Includes hazards, controls and compliance notes for agriculture.Category: Agriculture and Farming
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUnderlift and Suspended-Tow Recovery Risk AssessmentDownload an underlift and suspended‑tow recovery risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and LOLER compliance. Editable PDF.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUnderpinning Risk AssessmentFree underpinning risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards for soil collapse, shoring failure, utilities, manual handling & more. HSE‑compliant, download PDF.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUnderstage, Confined‑Space and Pit Operations Risk AssessmentVenue‑specific risk assessment for understage, confined‑space and pit operations covering hazards, controls and UK regulatory compliance.Category: Concerts Festivals and Events
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUniversity Campus Security Risk AssessmentDownload a free university campus security risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for higher‑education sites.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUniversity Research Laboratories Risk AssessmentDownload a free risk assessment for university labs covering chemicals, gases, bio agents and lone work. Fully editable PDF template.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUniversity Sports Centres and Gyms Risk AssessmentDownload a university sports centre and gym risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and PUWER compliance. Editable for higher education fa...Category: Schools and Learning Environments
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUnloading Heavy/Fragile Mixed Pallets Risk AssessmentFree unloading heavy fragile mixed pallets risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance for warehouse operators. Download PDF.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUnloading Heavy/Fragile Mixed Pallets Risk AssessmentDownload a free risk assessment template for unloading heavy and fragile mixed pallets. Includes hazards, controls and legal compliance. Fully editable.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUnloading Risk AssessmentDownload a free unloading risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for logistics sites.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUnstaffed Reception and Lone Night-Worker Safety Risk AssessmentDownload a tailored risk assessment for unstaffed reception and lone night‑worker safety in hotels. Editable template with hazards and controls.Category: Hospitality and Accommodation
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUpper Limb Amputation Risk AssessmentDownload a free upper limb amputation risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable for employers.Category: Occupational Health & Welfare
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUpper Limb Disorders Risk AssessmentDownload a free risk assessment template for upper limb disorders. Includes hazards, controls, and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF.Category: General
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUrban Multi-Drop Van Deliveries Risk AssessmentFree urban multi-drop van delivery risk assessment template. Includes hazards, controls, and compliance for logistics in congested cities.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUse and Provision of Fire Extinguishers Fire Risk AssessmentDownload a free fire extinguisher risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for safety teams.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUse of Abrasive Wheels Risk AssessmentDownload a free abrasive wheels risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for workshops.Category: General
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUse of Chlorine and Quaternary Ammonium Sanitizers in Food Environments Risk AssessmentDownload a free risk assessment template for chlorine and quaternary ammonium sanitiser use in food environments. Includes hazards, controls, and compliance.Category: Cleaning, Food Industry
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUse of Force Door Supervisor Risk AssessmentDownload a free use of force door supervisor risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and legal compliance. Editable PDF for venues.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUse of Force Equipment and Restraints Risk AssessmentDownload a free risk assessment template for use of force equipment and restraints, with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUse of Harness Risk AssessmentFree use of harness risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards, controls, and rescue planning for construction and maintenance. HSE‑compliant, download PDF.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUtilities Site Security Risk AssessmentDownload a free utilities site security risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for water, power and telecom sites.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUV Curing Risk AssessmentDownload a free UV curing risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for manufacturing. Editable PDF.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFUV Exposure and Sunburn Risk AssessmentDownload a free UV exposure and sunburn risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for outdoor workers.Category: General
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVaccination and Immunisation Sessions Risk AssessmentDownload a vaccination risk assessment template with hazards, controls and COSHH compliance for schools. Fully editable PDF.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVacuum Forming and Thermoforming Risk AssessmentDownload a free vacuum and thermoforming risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for plastics factories. Editable PDF.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVacuum Packing Risk AssessmentDownload a free vacuum packing risk assessment template with HACCP controls, microbiology safety and machine safety for food production.Category: Food Industry
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVacuum Systems Risk AssessmentDownload a free vacuum systems risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for manufacturing. Editable PDF.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVacuum Tumbler Meat Processing Risk AssessmentDownload a free vacuum tumbler meat processing risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for food manufacturers.Category: Food Industry
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVacuuming of Carpeted Areas Risk AssessmentDownload a free vacuuming carpeted areas risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for cleaners.Category: Cleaning, General
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFValet Parking Risk AssessmentDownload a valet parking risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for hotel staff. Editable PDF for front‑of‑house teams.Category: Hospitality and Accommodation
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVandalism and Graffiti Risk AssessmentDownload a free vandalism and graffiti risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF for security teams.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVape and E‑Cigarette Retail Risk AssessmentDownload a vape and e‑cigarette retail risk assessment template with hazards, controls and COSHH compliance. Editable PDF for shops.Category: Retail and Service Industries
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVegetable Washing Risk AssessmentDownload a free vegetable washing risk assessment template with hazards, controls, and compliance notes. Editable PDF for food industry kitchens.Category: Food Industry
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVegetation, Scrub & Overgrowth Clearance Risk AssessmentDownload a free vegetation, scrub & overgrowth clearance risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for landscapers.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Access and Egress Risk AssessmentDownload a free vehicle access and egress risk assessment template with hazards, controls and legal references. Editable PDF for traffic management.Category: Traffic Management
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Appraisal Risk AssessmentDownload a vehicle appraisal risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for motor trade dealerships.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Auction Inspection Risk AssessmentDownload a vehicle auction risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for motor‑trade inspections.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Battery Work, Acid and Jump-Starting Risk AssessmentDownload a vehicle battery work risk assessment template with acid handling, jump‑starting hazards and COSHH controls. Editable PDF for motor trade workshops.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Body Panel Repair Risk AssessmentDownload a vehicle body panel repair risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for motor trade works.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Body Shops and Spray Painters Fire Risk AssessmentFree fire risk assessment template for vehicle body shops and spray painters, with hazards, controls and UK compliance notes.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Diagnostics and Road Testing Risk AssessmentDownload a vehicle diagnostics and road testing risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for workshops.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Dismantling Risk AssessmentDownload a vehicle dismantling risk assessment with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for the motor trade.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Forecourt Operations Risk AssessmentDownload a vehicle forecourt risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for dealerships.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Handover Risk AssessmentDownload a vehicle handover risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF for dealerships.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Incursion and Struck-By Risk AssessmentFree vehicle incursion and struck‑by risk assessment template for traffic management. Includes hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Traffic Management
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Inspection Pits Risk AssessmentDownload a free vehicle inspection pits risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for motor trade workshops.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Key Security Risk AssessmentDownload a free vehicle key security risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for security teams.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Key Security Risk Assessment for Vehicle Services and the Motor TradeDownload a vehicle key security risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for motor trade workshops.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Preparation Sanding and Masking Risk AssessmentDownload a vehicle preparation sanding and masking risk assessment template with dust control measures, PPE guidance and COSHH compliance for motor trade wor...Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Purchase and Pre‑Sale Inspection Risk AssessmentDownload a vehicle purchase and pre‑sale inspection risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for motor trade professio...Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Ramp and Lift Inspection Risk AssessmentDownload a vehicle ramp and lift risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and LOLER compliance. Editable PDF for motor trade.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Recovery Flatbed Risk AssessmentDownload a vehicle recovery flatbed risk assessment template with hazards, controls and LOLER compliance. Editable PDF for motor trade.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Restraint System Risk AssessmentFree vehicle restraint system risk assessment template with hazards, controls and UK compliance notes.Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Road Test and Demonstration Drive Risk AssessmentDownload a vehicle road test risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for motor trade staff. Editable PDF for safe driving.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Rollover on Uneven Verges/Slopes Risk AssessmentFree vehicle rollover risk assessment template. Hazards, controls, and compliance for uneven verges and slopes. Download PDF.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Searches Risk AssessmentDownload a free vehicle searches risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for security sites.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Security Risk AssessmentDownload a free vehicle security risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for fleet managers.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Servicing Risk AssessmentDownload a vehicle servicing risk assessment template with pre-filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for workshops.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Showroom Risk AssessmentDownload a vehicle showroom risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for dealership staff.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFVehicle Stacking and Storage Risk AssessmentDownload a salvage yard vehicle stacking risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for motor trade busine...Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade

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 2558 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 2558 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.

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.