Assessing Risks Flashcards
6 cards from real IOSH practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Assessing Risks flashcards as text
What is meant by 'ALARP' in risk management?
Answer: As Low As Reasonably Practicable
ALARP stands for 'As Low As Reasonably Practicable'. It means that risks should be reduced to the lowest level that is reasonably practicable, balancing the cost and effort of further reduction against the remaining risk.
Which of the following is an example of a biological hazard?
Answer: Legionella bacteria in water systems
Legionella bacteria, which can cause Legionnaires' disease, is a biological hazard. Other examples include blood-borne viruses, bacteria from contaminated food, and mould. Asbestos is a chemical/substance hazard.
What is a 'risk rating' and how is it typically calculated?
Answer: It is calculated by multiplying the likelihood score by the severity score
A risk rating provides a numerical value for comparing and prioritising risks. It is typically calculated by multiplying a likelihood score (e.g., 1-5) by a severity score (e.g., 1-5), giving a risk rating that can be categorised as low, medium or high.
Why is it important to identify who might be harmed during a risk assessment?
Answer: To ensure control measures protect everyone who could be affected, including vulnerable groups
Identifying who might be harmed ensures that control measures are designed to protect all affected parties, with particular attention to vulnerable groups such as young workers, pregnant women, disabled people, and members of the public.
What role do accident and ill-health records play in risk assessment?
Answer: They help identify patterns, recurring hazards, and areas where current controls may be failing
Accident and ill-health records provide valuable data for risk assessments. They reveal patterns, highlight recurring problems, indicate where controls are failing, and help predict where future incidents might occur.
What is the purpose of a risk assessment action plan?
Answer: To set out what additional controls are needed, who is responsible, and by when
An action plan arising from a risk assessment sets out what further control measures need to be implemented, who is responsible for implementing them, the timescale for completion, and how effectiveness will be checked.