Risk assessment: generic template and guidance

Find the resources you need to start carrying out a risk assessment, including a generic template and guidance on statutory requirements. Plus, use our flowchart to help you decide if you need a risk assessment for specific activities.

Last reviewed on 2 August 2023
School types: All · School phases: All
Ref: 46863
Contents
  1. What are the statutory requirements?
  2. Who is responsible for risk assessment?
  3. Do you need a risk assessment?
  4. Download our generic risk assessment template

What are the statutory requirements?

Health and safety law requires you to assess risks and put in place proportionate control measures, according to the DfE's health and safety guidance.

To fulfil this requirement, you must identify and record:

  • Hazards (what could cause injury or illness in your school?)
  • How pupils, staff and visitors might be harmed
  • What you have done to control the risk

The hazards and risks will be different for every school. You need to think about risks that could occur at any time of the school day, relating to the school premises or activities taking place on or off site.

Risk assessments required by law

List of statutory risk assessments Workers under 18 Asbestos Control of substances hazardous to health (COSHH) Display screen equipment Fire First aid Manual handling Working at height Children being drawn into terrorism Swimming pools You're also required