Risk Assessment/ General Space Use
The following general risk assessment covers the general risks associated with being in the space. Hazards associated with specific equipment or activities are covered in subject risk assessments on the relevant wiki pages
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.
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 |
