FAQ

Do I legally need to do Risk Assesments?

Yes. Under UK law, employers and self-employed individuals are required to carry out risk assessments. The key legislation is the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

If you employ five or more people, you must record your risk assessments in writing. Even if you have fewer than five employees, you are still legally required to assess risks—recording them is simply best practice.

A risk assessment helps you identify potential hazards, evaluate the risks, and implement appropriate control measures to protect employees, contractors, and members of the public.

How often should they be reviewed?

Risk assessments should be reviewed regularly and kept up to date. While UK law does not specify an exact timeframe, you should review them:

At least annually as good practice
When there are significant changes, such as:
- New equipment, processes, or substances
- Changes in staff or workplace layout
- New legislation or guidance
After an incident or near miss
When you suspect the assessment is no longer valid

The key legal requirement is that risk assessments must remain “suitable and sufficient” at all times.