In summary, a risk assessment template is a valuable tool for identifying and evaluating potential hazards and risks in a mining and exploration operation. By following a systematic process for identifying hazards, assessing the likelihood and consequences, determining the risk level, and implementing control measures, companies can effectively reduce the risk of accidents and injuries and ensure the safety of their employees.
What is the standard procedure for assessing risks?
Standard risk assessment helps to identify, analyze, and prioritize potential risks and hazards in order to determine the appropriate controls and preventative measures to put in place. There are several criteria that are typically included in a risk assessment template for the mining and exploration industry. These may include:
- Description of the activity or operation: This includes a detailed description of the activity or operation being carried out, including any potential hazards and risks associated with it.
- Identify the hazards: This involves identifying all potential hazards associated with the activity or operation, including those that may be hidden or not immediately obvious. This may include physical hazards (e.g. falls, machinery), chemical hazards (e.g. exposure to toxic substances), and biological hazards (e.g. exposure to infectious diseases).
- Assess the likelihood and consequences: This involves evaluating the likelihood of a hazard occurring, the severity of the potential consequences if it does occur, and the likelihood of those consequences occurring.
- Determine the risk level: Based on the likelihood and consequences of a hazard occurring, a risk level can be determined using a risk matrix. This matrix assigns a risk level (e.g. low, medium, high) based on every hazard's probability and consequences.
- Identify control measures: Based on the risk level, control measures can be identified to eliminate or reduce the risk. These may include engineering controls (e.g. installing guards on machinery), administrative controls (e.g. implementing safety procedures), or personal protective equipment (e.g. hard hats, respirators)
- Implement and review controls: Once control measures have been identified, they should be implemented and regularly reviewed to ensure that they are effective in reducing the risk of a hazard occurring.
In 2023, Risk Assessment Checklist is frequently conducted via pen-and-paper, where employees fill out a checklist and submit it before starting work. However, filing, storing, and managing these documents can be a time-consuming and expensive task. It's much easier and more efficient to use a digital Risk Assessment system such as the one built into Grid. It's available as a template, which means you can set it up in minutes, and have your employees begin using it immediately.
