People arrive at their jobs every day with a lot on their minds.

What do I have to get done by lunchtime? How many phone calls or emails do I need to respond to? Whose turn is it to bring the donuts?

Most people do not come into work worried about “Risk Assessment.” Yet, regardless of the type or size of the business, ensuring the safety of employees is a top priority. The way to accomplish this is to conduct a risk assessment and proactively take action to mitigate any work hazards.

Although there can be many potential risks at a workplace—air quality, toxic substances, heavy lifting—working at height, and other fall hazards, are major concerns. According to the Association of Workers, Compensation Boards of Canada, of 348,747 Lost Time Claims in 2022, 50,214 were due to a fall.

1. Prevent Accidents
Protecting individuals from harm, injury, and, at worst, death is clearly the main benefit of risk assessment and mitigation.

2. Comply with Regulations
Compliance not only avoids legal penalties—including fines and imprisonment—it fosters a culture of safety that gives workers confidence in their employer.

3. Employee Engagement and Empowerment
Employees are the ones most familiar with their day-to-day operations and potential hazards. Involving them in risk assessment promotes individual responsibility, that can improve morale and preventive action.

4. Cost Savings
There is an initial investment in safety measures; however, it can lead to long-term savings by reducing medical expenses, compensation claims, and property damage. Investments in work safety also help avoid lost productivity, absenteeism, and damage to the company’s reputation.

5. Continuous Improvement
Risk assessment and mitigation is not a one-time effort. Work conditions can change. Regulations can be updated. Continuous review of on-the-job risks—including recertification of safety measures where necessary—helps ensure that protocols are current and effective.

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