What is the difference between a hazard and a risk?

The following article draws on information from the www.hse.gov.uk website. It is to provide general guidance. You should seek professional advice for specific situations.

A hazard is anything that can cause harm (e.g. chemicals, electricity, working at height, machinery etc).

Risk is the rating, illustrating the chances that somebody will be harmed by the hazard. In many cases, it is high, medium or low. Potentially dangerous chemical substances carry more detailed ratings.