Risk analysis is designed to identify the potential for accidents and level of risk to health that a working environment presents to employees.

In the course of risk analysis an employer identifies any working environment factors which may place employees at risk, gauges the extent of the risk and designates measures to minimise such risk. Where necessary the parameters of the risk factors are measured (e.g. noise, vibration and the internal climate). The results of the risk analysis are recorded in writing and archived for 55 years.

Risk analysis is repeated if the working conditions change, new information becomes available about the level of risk a working process presents, an occupational accident occurs or an employee is diagnosed with a work-related illness or disease.

The best practice in risk analysis is when information regarding working conditions is collected from both employees and those who come into direct contact with the working environment on a daily basis. Questionnaires may be used for this purpose or the assistance of working environment representatives sought.

The results of risk analysis must be revealed to employees. How their health may be at risk and the safety measures they should take (safe working practices, personal protection equipment etc) must also be explained to employees, as must the company’s action plan for the reduction of risks.

The employer and employees are obliged to work together to ensure a safe working environment. To this end the employer consults the employees or their representative and the working environment representative on all matters related to the working environment, takes their proposals into account when planning measures for the improvement of the working environment and involves them in the implementation of such measures.

An employer may be assisted in carrying out risk analysis by occupational health and safety service providers registered with the Health Care Board: occupational health doctors, ergonomists, occupational hygiene specialists and occupational psychologists. The list of registered service providers can be viewed  here.