Templates
School risk assessment template

School risk assessment template

Document physical, behavioral, and emergency risks across school sites with our customizable template.

Use this template
or download pdf
School risk assessment template

Document physical, behavioral, and emergency risks across school sites with our customizable template.

Use this template
or download pdf

This template helps you proactively identify, document, and manage hazards across your entire school environment, from playgrounds and science labs to arrival and dismissal zones. With detailed sections for physical safety, security protocols, and emergency preparedness, it addresses the unique risks that educational institutions face. The template enables you to assign responsibility, set review dates, and keep all risk controls audit-ready for compliance checks.

Violence and safety remain critical concerns in education. According to the US National Center for Education Statistics, over two-thirds of US public schools have experienced at least one violent incident in a single year. Addressing these issues requires a thorough, systematic approach to risk management. For additional support in specific areas, explore our dedicated fire safety, COSHH, or mental health risk assessment templates to build a safer school environment.

Related categories

Preview of the template
Audit
Assessment
Hazards? Click "Add"
Identify the hazard
Who might be harmed?
How they might be harmed (i.e. what type of injury or health issues might occur)?
Photo of hazard (optional)
Risk rating
What are the existing control measures?
What further action is necessary?
Sign off
Name and Signature of person in charge
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Frequently asked questions

What are the most common safety risks in schools?

Common risks include slips and falls, fire hazards, playground accidents, lab chemical exposure, inadequate emergency exits, and violence or bullying. These risks vary by school type and size, so tailor assessments to reflect actual conditions.

What challenges do schools face when managing safety risks?

Limited budgets, understaffing, and aging infrastructure often make it difficult for schools to stay ahead of risks. There’s also the challenge of balancing a welcoming learning environment with strict safety procedures, especially in older buildings or high-traffic areas.

How can schools address risks related to violence or bullying?

Include supervision policies, safe reporting procedures, and staff training in your risk assessment. It’s important to treat violence and bullying as environmental risks, just like fire or equipment hazards, and plan controls to reduce their likelihood and impact.

What happens if a school fails to carry out a proper risk assessment?

Failing to assess risks can lead to serious injuries, legal action, loss of funding, or negative inspection reports. Beyond legal consequences, it undermines trust among staff, parents, and students. A proper assessment protects both people and the institution.

This template, developed by Lumiform employees, serves as a starting point for businesses using the Lumiform platform and is intended as a hypothetical example only. It does not replace professional advice. Companies should consult qualified professionals to assess the suitability and legality of using this template in their specific workplace or jurisdiction. Lumiform is not liable for any errors or omissions in this template or for any actions taken based on its content.