Introduction to Risk Assessment

Risk assessment is a detailed and systematic evaluation of all real and potential sources of danger. Its purpose is to identify foreseeable risks and to establish whether those risks are acceptable, or if special measures are called for to reduce those risks.

A risk assessment should identify dangers in the workplace, and find out the risks of the work activity. The assessment should take into account any existing risk control measures, such as permits to work, restricted access, use of warning signs, established procedures, and personal protective equipment (PPE).

Why Should We Assess Risk?

Accidents onboard can lead to life-altering injuries or, in extreme circumstances, death. The fact that the consequences are so high for some tasks means that all possible steps to reduce the risk of undertaking them to safeguard human life, marine property, and the marine environment. In any operation, it is the human element that often provides the most cause for concern. 

The following video explores this human element when considering safety and risk assessment onboard.