Risk Assessment/ General Space Use

This risk assessment is intended to provide guidance on the risk associated with the above equipment and activities in normal use. Please also check general risk assessments for the space as a whole. Any discrepancies, errors or concerns should be raised with the document maintainers or trustees - do not edit this page directly. For responsible persons and last update, see 'version log' of this page.

Activity

General risks associated with being in the space (not associated with any specific equipment or activity)

Understanding Risk Rating

LOW - Ensure current control measures are in place and continue with activity

MED - Control measures may be adequate, co-supervision is recommended

HIGH - Do not undertake activity without further consultation with area specialists

Risk Assessment

Identify Hazards	Who May be Harmed and How	Severity	Control Measures	Likelihood	Risk Rating
Hazardous Substances	Users – burns, skin irritation, drowsiness, eye irritation	MED	Users must be inducted to use this tool. Members must challenge use that they believe is dangerous. Users should read the user manual where applicable. Users must read the risk assessment before using a tool.	LOW	LOW
Fumes/dust inhalation	Users of tools, users of the space – Eye and skin irritation or breathing difficulties/respiratory damage	MED	Dust extractors should be fitted to all bench tools with extraction available Dust extraction should be used in the area near the tool if extractor fitting is not available. Respiration masks (provided by member) should be worn when dust extractors are not feasible to use e.g. extended periods of sanding. Eye protection provided Dust masks provided. Workshop extraction is provided and should be used. See COSHH risk assessment for any fumes due to use of chemicals	LOW	LOW
Fire	Users, Premises	HIGH	See Fire risk assessment and evacuation procedure	LOW	MED
Electrics – Portable appliances	Users – electrical shock or burns	HIGH	Visual inspection before each use. If visual inspection is unsatisfactory, problem will be labelled and appliance will be placed in the maintenance box immediately. Plug appliances into mains wall sockets wherever feasible. Follow instructions and labels on appliances for safe use. Do not plug in more than 13 amps combined to any extension lead.	LOW	MED
Use of bench tools – Lathe, table saw, mitre saw etc.	Users and bystanders – Serious physical harm	HIGH	Users will read the risk assessment for each bench tool they wish to use. Users will be competent to use the tool. Users will read workshop induction which includes accessing the risk assessments and expectations of users.	LOW	MED
Use of power tools – Drills, compressors, jigsaw	Users and bystanders – Physical harm	MED	Users will be competent to use the tool. Members will challenge any use seen as dangerous. Users will ask for information and/or supervision if they are not sure how to use a tool. Users will wear ear protection where necessary. Users will wear eye protection while in the workshop.	LOW	LOW
Slips and trips	Users – Physical harm	MED	All spills will be cleaned up immediately. All spills and wet areas will be marked immediately. Floors will be vacuumed, swept or mopped on a frequent basis. All high traffic areas will be kept free of obstacles and materials. Projects will always be stored away from walkways and access points. Trailing leads will be covered using cable trays or clearly marked.	LOW	LOW