Decide who might be harmed and how

Think how employees (or others who may be present such as contractors or visitors) might be harmed. Ask your employees what they think the hazards are, as they may notice things that are not obvious to you and may have some good ideas on how to control the risks.

For each hazard you need to be clear about who might be harmed; it will help you identify the best way of controlling the risk. That doesn’t mean listing everyone by name, but rather identifying groups of people (eg ‘people working in the storeroom’ or ‘passers-by’).

Remember:

• some workers have particular requirements, for example new and young workers  , migrant workers  , new or expectant mothers, people with disabilities, temporary workers, contractors, homeworkers and lone workers (see Your workers)
• Think about people who might not be in the workplace all the time, such as visitors, contractors and maintenance workers
• Take members of the public into account if they could be hurt by your activities
• If you share your workplace with another business, consider how your work affects others and how their work affects you and your workers. Talk to each other and make sure controls are in place
• Ask your workers if there is anyone you may have missed.