Hazardous chemical risk assessment template

You should assess any chemical classified as hazardous according to your local regulations. Prioritize chemicals with severe hazard classifications, those used in large quantities, or those handled frequently. Focus on substances with GHS pictograms indicating health, physical, or environmental hazards, and always include any chemical that’s previously caused incidents in your workplace.

Before starting, collect each chemical’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS), which provides the CAS number, hazard classifications, and physical form. Document how and where the chemical is used, typical quantities, frequency of handling, and existing control measures. Observe actual work practices to understand potential exposure scenarios and gather input from workers who handle the substances regularly.

Assess risk by considering both the severity of potential harm (from mild irritation to fatal outcomes) and the likelihood of exposure (based on frequency, duration, and quantity handled). Evaluate existing control measures to determine if they adequately reduce risk. Your assessment should reflect the residual risk after controls are applied, helping you identify which chemicals require additional safeguards.

immediately implement temporary controls to protect workers while developing permanent solutions. Review your control hierarchy—first try elimination or substitution with safer alternatives, then implement engineering controls before relying on administrative measures or PPE. Document your action plan with responsible persons and timelines, and communicate changes to all affected workers.