Chemical and Biological Risk Assessment Template
v1.8
Purpose. The template used to assess the risks of a test method, chemical or organism before it is introduced or when a procedure changes, and to record the controls that must be in place.
1.When a risk assessment is required
A risk assessment must be completed and approved before any new chemical, organism, test method or item of equipment is used, before a method is changed in a way that alters the hazards, and at least every three years for existing methods. It must be reviewed after any incident or exposure involving the method.
2.Identifying hazards
List every chemical with its hazard classification from the safety data sheet, every biological agent with its risk group, and the physical hazards of the equipment and process such as heat, pressure, sharps, ultraviolet light and manual handling. Consider preparation, use, cleaning, waste and emergencies, not just the analysis step.
3.Assessing risk
For each hazard, estimate the likelihood and consequence of harm using the laboratory's risk matrix, taking into account the quantity used, the frequency of the task, the route of exposure and who performs it, including trainees and students. Rate the risk before and after controls.
4.Controls
Select controls in the hierarchy order: eliminate or substitute the substance, isolate the process in a fume cupboard, biosafety cabinet or enclosure, apply engineering controls such as local exhaust, apply administrative controls such as training, authorisation and limits on quantity, and finally specify the personal protective equipment. Name the emergency response including spill kit, eyewash, safety shower and first aid.
- Elimination or substitution
- Isolation and engineering controls
- Administrative controls and training
- Personal protective equipment
- Emergency response
5.Approval and communication
The section manager and the Quality Manager approve the assessment. It must be attached to the method, communicated to every person who performs the method and recorded in their training record. Health monitoring requirements are recorded where a specified chemical is involved.