What is a machinery risk assessment and why do I need one?

We all know machinery and its operation can be inherently dangerous.

Risk assessments play a crucial role reducing the risks involved in machinery operation and helping to protect the safety of workers. In this article, we take a look at exactly what a machinery risk assessment is and why it’s critical to be conducting them on your machines.

What is a machinery risk assessment?

A machinery risk assessment is the systematic process of identifying, evaluating, controlling and monitoring potential hazards associated with a machine and its attachments. The objective of a risk assessment is to minimise the potential for the machine to be involved in an incident that could cause harm to the operator or those in the machine’s vicinity.

Why do I need a machinery risk assessment?

There are a number of critical reasons for conducting a risk assessment on your fleet of machinery.

Identify hazards

Conducting a machinery risk assessment helps to identify potential hazards on the machine. Some of these hazards can include moving parts, electrical and hydraulic components or the ergonomics of the machine. Recognising the hazards is the first step towards reducing machinery-related risks and improving the safety of your workplace.

Manage and control hazards

The next step of completing a machinery risk assessment allows you to control the hazards that have been identified. Using the hierarchy of controls is considered industry best practice for determining the most appropriate method for controlling a machine’s hazards. Implementing controls is the crucial component of the risk assessment that helps to reduce risks, and consequently, reduce the potential for your workers to be seriously injured or killed. However, it is important to continually monitor the hazard and its control to ensure it remains as effective as possible over time.

Meet legal obligations

Compliance with safety legislation, regulations, standards and codes of practice is a requirement for businesses operating machinery. In many jurisdictions, you are obligated to conduct risk assessments on your machinery to ensure the risks to workers are reduced. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in hefty penalties such as large fines and lengthy prison sentences.

Conducting a risk assessment on your machinery is also a great opportunity to reflect on all of your obligations as a supplier or operator of machinery and ensure you are complying with them. For further information on your obligations, check out our guide on safety legislation.

Reduce the risk of liability

If your machine is involved in an incident that causes injury or damage, you may be found accountable and be subject to severe penalties. By conducting thorough machinery risk assessments and implementing appropriate control measures, you can reduce your risk of liability. This not only helps to protect the safety of your workers but also safeguards the reputation and financial interests of your business.

Provide peace of mind

Knowing comprehensive risk assessments have been conducted on your fleet of machines and appropriate control measures are in place can provide both you and your staff with peace of mind. Your workers can operate machinery confidently knowing their safety is prioritised and you will know you have done your utmost to ensure hazards are controlled and your legal obligations have been met.

Want to learn more about machinery risk assessments?

Ideagen Plant Assessor specialises in machine-specific risk assessments with in-built legislative intelligence. Our team of experts is on hand to help you understand your machinery risk assessment requirements. Simply contact us on 1300 728 852 or info@assessor.com.au.

Disclaimer: This information is intended to provide general information on the subject matter. This is not intended as legal or expert advice for your specific situation. You should seek professional advice before acting or relying on the content of this information.