Risk assessment is one of the basic pillars of an occupational health and safety (OHS) system. It is not just a legal obligation, but above all a practical tool that helps prevent injuries, occupational diseases and financial losses. A properly performed risk assessment allows employers to identify hazards, introduce effective measures and create a safer working environment. At Rescue Group we have been helping companies with professional risk assessment for many years.
Why risk assessment is mandatory
The Czech Labour Code and related legislation require every employer to carry out a risk assessment at all workplaces. This obligation applies regardless of the size of the company.
The aim of a risk assessment is not merely to meet legal requirements on paper. Above all, it is a key preventive tool that makes it possible to identify potential hazards in time, protect employees’ health and lives, and prevent workplace injuries and occupational diseases.
A well-prepared risk assessment forms the basis of the whole health and safety system in a company. It is the starting point for planning employee training, choosing and providing personal protective equipment, work categorisation, and designing technical, organisational and procedural measures in the workplace.
How to carry out a risk assessment correctly
A risk assessment should be systematic, comprehensive and regularly updated. The whole process can be divided into several key steps:
- Identifying all hazards in the workplace
- Determining who is at risk and the level of exposure
- Evaluating the likelihood and severity of the risk
- Designing and introducing preventive and protective measures
- Regular review and updating
A risk assessment must take into account physical risks (noise, dust, vibration, chemical substances) as well as ergonomic, psychosocial and organisational risks.
The most common mistakes in risk assessment
Many companies underestimate the quality of their risk assessment. The most common shortcomings include:
- A box-ticking approach without a real assessment of the situation in the workplace
- Overlooking psychosocial risks and risks associated with new technologies
- No updates after changes in operations or technology
- Insufficient involvement of employees in the process
Such assessments then have no practical value and can lead to fines during an inspection.
Risk assessment and ISO 45001
For companies working according to ISO 45001, risk assessment is one of the basic pillars of their health and safety management system. The standard emphasises a proactive approach, employee involvement and continual improvement. A properly implemented ISO 45001 system makes it much easier to meet legal obligations and pass external audits.
Q&A – frequently asked questions about risk assessment
How often must a risk assessment be updated?
A risk assessment must be updated whenever there is a change in work procedures, technology or work organisation.
Does a risk assessment have to be carried out by an external company?
No, the employer can carry it out in-house, but it must meet several requirements. An external specialist ensures objectivity and higher quality, especially for more complex operations.
What if I do not carry out a risk assessment?
You face a fine of up to CZK 2,000,000 and, in the event of an injury, even criminal liability.
Does a risk assessment also cover home office?
Yes. The employer must also assess the risks of working from home, especially ergonomic and psychosocial risks.
From obligation to real value
A risk assessment is not an administrative obligation to be “ticked off”. It is a strategic tool that protects employees’ health, reduces the costs of injuries and occupational diseases and increases the company’s overall efficiency.
At Rescue Group we offer professional risk assessments with a practical impact on day-to-day operations. We will help you not only meet the legal requirements, but above all create a safer and healthier working environment.
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