RISK ASSESSMENT - 28.06.2022

Site-specific vs generic risk assessments

You often hear the terms “generic” and “site-specific” risk assessments, but what are the differences and which is the preferred option?

Generic risk assessments. These highlight commonly identified hazards and control measures associated with general activities or events and are a good starting point for tasks that are regularly carried out by your employees. They are completed for a general activity, for example, excavation works, but not for the specific area you are about to work in.

Site-specific risk assessments. These are where you can demonstrate attention to detail in your workplace to highlight hazards only found at your location and adapt the controls to be very relevant to the risk identified, e.g. overhead power cables above an excavation site.

Tip. Some generic risk assessments may be valid without having to change them at all if your workforce carries out either low risk or repetitive work activities, but if you adapt one to your site to make it particular to the activities you undertake, this will turn it into a “site-specific” one.