How do I undertake a risk assessment?

How do I undertake a risk assessment?

The health and safety of all people involved in a project is PARAMOUNT

There are legal requirements as well as those set by local authorities and project partners i.e. MZONE.

Young people may not be aware of risks. If you do this kind of work regularly there is a greater chance that you might have an accident. If someone is injured they may be entitled to make a claim for negligence or malpractice so it is important to take all precautions and follow the correct procedures if anything does occur.

Risk Assessment

You may be asked to carry out a risk assessment by MZONE, school or organisation. This basically involves thinking about all the potential risks and hazards that may arise during any part of the project.

Some potential risks and precautions are:

Manual handling - lifting and shifting heavy equipment. Generally, don't allow participants to handle heavy gear. Make sure you know how to lift correctly.

Noise levels - especially when working with loud instruments like drums, or amplified equipment. Sustained exposure to even relatively low levels can damage ears, so build in regular quiet periods and monitor noise levels.

Risk of electrocution - many venues and project partners require all electrical appliances such as guitar amplifiers, turntables etc to be PAT-tested. (Portable Appliance Test). This can be done by a qualified electrician for a few pounds per item, and the certificate given lasts for about 2 years. Sometimes project partners can offer free PAT testing by their own sub-contractors. Check any plug adaptors and extension leads, especially if using outdoors.

Risk of physical injury - all instruments and equipment should be safe to use, free of sharp edges etc. If you plan to use drums or drumsticks there may be risk of damage to fingers - make sure you coach users in the correct use. Check heavy items such as speakers are safely positioned and can't fall over. Check there are no dangerous corners or steps in the venue.

Substances hazardous to health - chemicals, liquids etc. These may be around in the venue you use. They are covered by COSHH laws (Control Of Substances Hazardous to Health). Check with the venue manager to see if there is a risk. Also consider issues such as passive smoking.

Risk of fire - make sure you know where fire exits and meeting points are, also the location of any fire extinguishers and alarms.

Trailing wires and leads - risk of tripping. Make sure any leads and wires are securely taped down and clearly marked if they cross walkways or passages.

See our Basic Risk Assessment Template for an example that you can use to undertake a risk assessment http://www.venturenavigator.co.uk/content/494/