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 AssessmentFREEPDFBudget and Limited-Service Hotel Operations Risk AssessmentDownload a budget hotel risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for motels and lodges.Category: Hospitality and Accommodation
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFBuilders and General Construction Workers Fire Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFBuilders Merchant Storage Yard Risk AssessmentDownload a free builders merchant storage yard risk assessment template with hazards, controls, and compliance notes. Editable PDF.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFBuilding Access Control and Door Security Risk AssessmentComprehensive risk assessment for building access control and door security operations, covering hazards, controls, and compliance.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFBuilding and Repairing Farm Structures Risk AssessmentDownload a farm structures risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable for agriculture and livestock sites.Category: Agriculture and Farming
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFBuilding Lockdown Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFBulb Planting Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFBulldozer Risk AssessmentFree 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 AssessmentFREEPDFBump-In and Bump-Out Vehicle Access Risk AssessmentDownload a ready‑to‑use vehicle access risk assessment for festivals. Includes hazards, controls and legal compliance.Category: Concerts Festivals and Events
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFBunkhouse, Camping Barn & Accommodation Risk AssessmentDownload a free bunkhouse and camping barn accommodation risk assessment template with hazards, controls and fire safety compliance.Category: Hospitality and Accommodation
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFBurns and Scalds Risk AssessmentDownload a free burns and scalds risk assessment template for commercial kitchens. Pre‑filled hazards, controls and legal compliance.Category: Food Industry
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFBurst and Frozen Pipe Repair Risk AssessmentDownload a free burst and frozen pipe repair risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for plumbers.Category: Plumbing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFBus Stop Suspension Risk AssessmentDownload a free bus stop suspension and route diversion risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Traffic Management
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFButchers and Meat Processing Fire Risk AssessmentFree fire risk assessment template for butchers and meat processing. Includes hazards, controls and compliance notes. Download editable PDF.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFButchery and Meat Cutting Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCable and Metal Theft Prevention Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCable Containment Installation Risk AssessmentDownload a free cable containment installation risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for electricians.Category: Electrical
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCable Jointing and Termination Risk AssessmentFree cable jointing and termination risk assessment template with hazards, controls and UK legislation compliance.Category: Electrical
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCable Management, Ramps & Trip Prevention Risk AssessmentDownload a cable management, ramps and trip prevention risk assessment template for festival crews. Includes hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Concerts Festivals and Events
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCafé & Vending Food Hygiene Risk Assessment for Gyms Training and Leisure FacilitiesComprehensive risk assessment for café and vending food hygiene in gyms, swimming pools and sports facilities. Includes hazards, controls and legal references.Category: Gyms Training and Leisure Facilities
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCafés and Coffee Shops Fire Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCage Loading for Final-Mile Courier Routes Risk AssessmentFree cage loading risk assessment template for final‑mile courier routes. Includes hazards, controls, and PDF download for logistics safety.Category: Fleet & Logistics
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCage Loading Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCake Decorating Risk AssessmentDownload a free cake decorating risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for bakeries.Category: Food Industry
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCalibration of Equipment and Instruments Risk AssessmentDownload a free calibration risk assessment template for manufacturing. Includes hazards, controls and PUWER/COSHH compliance. Editable PDF for factories.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCalving Assistance Risk AssessmentDownload a calving assistance risk assessment template with farm‑specific hazards, controls and COSHH compliance. Editable PDF for farmers and stockworkers.Category: Agriculture and Farming
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCamping and Touring Pitch Management Risk AssessmentDownload a camping pitch management risk assessment template with hazards, controls and legal compliance. Editable PDF for holiday parks.Category: Hospitality and Accommodation
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCampsite Children’s Safety Risk AssessmentDownload a campsite children's safety risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for holiday parks.Category: Hospitality and Accommodation
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCampsite Electrical Hook‑Ups and Site Power Risk AssessmentDownload a campsite electrical hook‑ups risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable for holiday parks.Category: Hospitality and Accommodation
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCampsite LPG, Fire Points & BBQ Control Risk AssessmentDownload a campsite LPG, fire points and BBQ control risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable for holiday park st...Category: Hospitality and Accommodation
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCampsite Pitch Spacing & Fire Separation Risk AssessmentDownload a campsite pitch spacing and fire separation risk assessment template. Ensure 6‑metre spacing, fire‑service access and compliance with the Fire Safe...Category: Hospitality and Accommodation
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCampsite Security, Access Control and Lone Warden Working Risk AssessmentDownload a campsite security, access control and lone warden risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. PDF for holiday parks.Category: Hospitality and Accommodation
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCampsite Shared Shower, Toilet and Washing-Facility Safety Risk AssessmentDownload a campsite shower and toilet risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for holiday parks.Category: Hospitality and Accommodation
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCampsite Speed Limits Risk AssessmentDownload a campsite speed limits risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for holiday parks.Category: Hospitality and Accommodation
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCampsite Waste, Chemical-Toilet Disposal and Sanitation Risk AssessmentDownload a campsite waste, chemical-toilet disposal and sanitation risk assessment template with hazards, controls and COSHH compliance.Category: Hospitality and Accommodation
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCancer Treatment Worker Risk AssessmentDownload a free risk assessment template for employees undergoing cancer treatment or in remission. Includes hazards, controls, and legal compliance.Category: Occupational Health & Welfare
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCapacity and Queue Control Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCapping, Sealing and Closing Risk AssessmentDownload a free capping, sealing and closing risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for manufacturing.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCapsule Filling and Granulation Risk AssessmentDownload a free capsule filling and granulation risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for pharma manufacturing. Editable PDF.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCar Boot Sale Risk AssessmentDownload a car boot sale risk assessment template with hazards, controls and legal compliance for licensed venues.Category: Retail and Service Industries
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCar Driving Lessons Risk AssessmentDownload a car driving lessons risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for instructors.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCar Park and External Areas Risk AssessmentDownload a car park risk assessment template for retail stores. Includes hazards, controls and legal compliance guidance.Category: Retail and Service Industries
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCar Park and External Areas Risk Assessment for Gyms Training and Leisure FacilitiesDownload a car park and external areas risk assessment template for gyms, pools and sports centres. Includes hazards, controls and legal compliance.Category: Gyms Training and Leisure Facilities
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCar Park and Path Sweeping Risk AssessmentFree car park sweeping risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for landscaping teams.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCar Park Patrol and Vehicle Crime Prevention Duties Risk AssessmentRisk assessment for security staff patrolling car parks and preventing vehicle crime.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCar Parks and EV Charging Areas Fire Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCar Transporter Loading and Unloading Risk Assessment for Vehicle Services and the Motor TradeDownload a car transporter loading and unloading risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for motor trade staff.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCaravan and Motorhome Habitation Servicing Risk AssessmentDownload a caravan habitation servicing risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for motor trade technicians.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCaravan and Motorhome Sales Risk AssessmentDownload a caravan and motorhome sales risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for dealerships.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCaravan Chassis, Brakes and Towing Equipment Risk AssessmentDownload a caravan chassis, brakes and towing risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and PUWER compliance. Editable PDF for motor trade.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCaravan Damp, Body and Roof Repairs at Height Risk AssessmentDownload a caravan roof repair risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for motor trade technicians.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCaravan LPG and Gas Appliance Work Risk AssessmentDownload a caravan LPG risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for motor trade technicians.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCarbon Monoxide Risk AssessmentDownload a free carbon monoxide risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes for public spaces.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCardboard Baler and Waste Compactor Risk AssessmentRetail cardboard baler and waste compactor risk assessment with hazards, controls and PUWER compliance for stockroom staff.Category: Retail and Service Industries
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCardio Machines Risk Assessment for Gyms Training and Leisure FacilitiesDownload a cardio machines risk assessment template for gyms and leisure facilities. Includes hazards, controls and PUWER compliance.Category: Gyms Training and Leisure Facilities
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCardiovascular Condition Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCare Home and Supported-Living Security Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCaretakers, Facilities and Maintenance Staff Fire Risk AssessmentFree fire risk assessment template for caretakers, facilities and maintenance staff. Includes hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCaretaking and Site Maintenance Risk AssessmentDownload a caretaking and site maintenance risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and PUWER compliance. Editable PDF for schools.Category: Schools and Learning Environments
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCarpenters and Joiners Fire Risk AssessmentFree 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCarpentry Risk AssessmentFree carpentry risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards, control measures and safety checklist for joiners and woodworkers. Download PDF.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCarpet Laying Risk AssessmentFree carpet laying risk assessment template. Pre-filled hazards for manual handling, adhesives, tools, fumes & more. HSE-compliant, download PDF.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCarriageway Inspection and Proving Before Reopening Risk AssessmentDownload a free carriageway inspection risk assessment template with hazards, controls and legal compliance. Editable PDF for traffic management crews.Category: Traffic Management
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCarvery and Buffet Service Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCash and Valuables Escort Risk AssessmentDownload a free cash and valuables escort risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCash Handling and Reception Security Risk Assessment for Gyms Training and Leisure FacilitiesDownload a cash handling and reception security risk assessment template for gyms, pools and leisure centres. Includes hazards, controls and compliance.Category: Gyms Training and Leisure Facilities
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCash Handling and Till Operations Risk AssessmentIdentify and control hazards in cash handling and till operations for retail and hospitality businesses.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCash Handling and Till Operations Risk AssessmentRisk assessment for cash handling and till operations, identifying hazards and controls to protect staff and assets.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCash Handling at Festivals Risk AssessmentDownload a cash handling risk assessment template for festivals and outdoor events. Includes hazards, controls and legal compliance.Category: Retail and Service Industries
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCash Office and Cash-Counting Duties Risk AssessmentTemplate for assessing cash handling hazards, controls and compliance for cash office staff.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCash Runs and Night‑Safe Deposits Risk AssessmentDownload a cash run and night‑safe deposit risk assessment template for retail stores. Includes hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Retail and Service Industries
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCash Transportation Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCash-in-Transit Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCasino and Licensed Gaming Venue Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCattle Crush Risk AssessmentDownload a cattle crush risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, control measures and compliance notes for farms. Editable PDF for livestock handling.Category: Agriculture and Farming
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCattle Handling and Restraint Risk AssessmentDownload a cattle handling and restraint risk assessment template with hazards, controls, and compliance notes. Fully editable for farms.Category: Agriculture and Farming
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCattle TB Testing and Veterinary Procedures Risk AssessmentDownload a cattle TB testing and veterinary procedures risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and COSHH compliance.Category: Agriculture and Farming
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCBRN Incident Response Risk AssessmentFree CBRN incident response risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Download editable PDF.Category: Security and Public Safety
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCCTV Control Room Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCCTV Drainage Survey Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCCTV Installation at Height Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCCTV Installation Risk AssessmentFree CCTV installation risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards for height, electricity, tools & traffic. Download PDF and customise.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCCTV Installation Risk AssessmentDownload a free CCTV installation risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable PDF.Category: Electrical
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCellar and Basement Storage Fire Risk AssessmentFree cellar and basement storage fire risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF download.Category: Fire Risk & Hot Works
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCellar Drop and Drayman Delivery Risk AssessmentDownload a cellar drop and drayman delivery risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and legal compliance for licensed venues.Category: Retail and Service Industries
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCement and Concrete Products Manufacturing Risk AssessmentDownload a free cement and concrete manufacturing risk assessment template with hazards, controls and legal compliance. Editable PDF.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCement Mixer Operation Risk AssessmentDownload a free cement mixer risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Fully editable for landscaping maintenance.Category: Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCement Mixer Risk AssessmentDownload a free cement mixer risk assessment template with hazards, controls and scores. Ideal for construction sites and concrete mixing operations.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCemetery Maintenance Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCentral Heating Installation Risk AssessmentDownload a free central heating risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for plumbers.Category: Plumbing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCentral Reserve Working on High Speed Roads Risk AssessmentDownload a central reserve high‑speed roads risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for traffic teams.Category: Traffic Management
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCentrifuges and Filtration Risk AssessmentDownload a free centrifuge and filtration risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards, controls and compliance notes for manufacturing sites.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCeramic Coating and Detailing Chemicals Risk AssessmentDownload a ceramic coating risk assessment template for vehicle workshops. Includes hazards, controls and COSHH compliance.Category: Vehicle Services and the Motor Trade
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCeramics Manufacturing Risk AssessmentDownload a free ceramics manufacturing risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for factories.Category: Manufacturing
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFChainsaw Risk AssessmentFree chainsaw risk assessment template. Pre‑filled hazards, controls, and safety guidance for tree felling and timber work. Download PDF.Category: Construction
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFChainsaw Use and Forestry Equipment Risk AssessmentDownload a free chainsaw and forestry risk assessment template with pre‑filled hazards and controls. Editable PDF for arboriculture.Category: General
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFChanging Rooms Risk Assessment for Gyms Training and Leisure FacilitiesDownload a comprehensive changing rooms risk assessment template for gyms and leisure facilities. Includes hazards, controls, and compliance notes.Category: Gyms Training and Leisure Facilities
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFChannel and Edging Installation Risk AssessmentDownload a free channel and edging installation risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes.Category: Roadworks & Highway Maintenance
Risk AssessmentFREEPDFCharging and Handling of TM Equipment Batteries Risk AssessmentDownload 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 AssessmentFREEPDFCharity and Second-Hand Shop Operations Risk AssessmentDownload a charity and second-hand shop risk assessment template with hazards, controls and compliance notes. Editable PDF for retail volunteers.Category: Retail and Service Industries

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.