One of the most important components of the IOSH Managing Safely course is the practical risk assessment project, which tests your ability to apply what you’ve learned in a real-world setting.
You’ll need to complete and pass the multi-choice questions as well as the practical risk assessment project before you can earn the IOSH certification.
Like I have done for my students, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to successfully complete the risk assessment project and pass your IOSH Managing Safely course.
Key takeaways
- The practical project involves conducting a workplace risk assessment.
- You must identify 4 hazards and evaluate the likelihood and impact of each.
- You’ll have 14 days after finishing the course to complete and submit your project.
The two parts of the IOSH Managing Safely assessment
To earn your IOSH Managing Safely certificate, you need to complete two assessments to show you’re theoretically AND practically capable of managing health and safety risks:
- A 45-minute multiple-choice test with 20 questions. This 45-minute test consists of 20 questions designed to check your understanding of the course content. The questions cover concepts from the course, such as identifying hazards, understanding risk management, and knowing legal responsibilities. It’s designed to be a quick, comprehensive check of your theoretical knowledge.
- A practical risk assessment project. This is where you’ll apply what you’ve learned by conducting a real-world risk assessment in your own workplace. The risk assessment project is where many students struggle, but don’t worry – I’ll break down exactly what you need to do to ace this portion of the assessment.
This is how to do IOSH risk assessment
The risk assessment form you’ll fill out during the IOSH Managing Safely course has a specific structure.
I have detailed a walkthrough of how to tackle each section of the IOSH risk assessment form:
- Choose a workplace to assess (better if it’s your own)
Select a workplace you know well. This could be your current workplace, a previous job site, or a scenario you’re familiar with. The main thing is just to choose an environment where you can realistically identify and assess risks.
2. Fill in basic assessment details (1 mark)
Start by entering:
- Your name as the assessor
- Date and time of assessment
- Brief description of work area (e.g. “Third floor office, 700 sq meters, up to 30 employees”)
- Task being assessed (e.g. “Using forklift to move goods from loading bay to shelves”)
3. Identify hazards (1 mark per hazard, 4 total)
In this section, you have to describe the hazard, which is something that can cause harm, such as a broken cable or spilled liquid. You should know that a hazard isn’t the actual harm, like an electric shock; it’s what leads to it.
You must identify at least four hazards from the following categories:
- Mechanical
- Physical
- Chemical
- Environmental
- Biological
- Organizational
These could be mechanical (e.g., faulty machinery), physical (e.g., wet floors), chemical (e.g., exposure to cleaning agents), or environmental (e.g., noise).
Each hazard needs to be clearly defined, and be specific in your description. Instead of “lifting heavy objects,” write “Manual handling of 20kg boxes of equipment from storage to shop floor.” The more detailed and accurate your hazard identification, the better your chances of scoring well.
4. Who might be harmed (1 mark per hazard)
Identify who is at risk. This could include employees, contractors, or even visitors. Be sure to consider all the people who could potentially be affected by the hazard.
5. Control measures and actions (1 mark per hazard)
Once you identify the hazards, it’s time to figure out how to control them. Here, describe what measures are already in place to control the hazard.
These can be engineering controls, equipment, safety procedures, training, or personal protective equipment (PPE). The goal is to minimize the likelihood of harm.
6. Assign a risk rating (1 mark per hazard)
For each hazard, you must assign a risk rating using the IOSH 5×5 matrix, which assesses both the likelihood (likelihood score is 1-5) and the severity (consequence score is 1-5) of the risk.
Then multiply these two scores to come up with a risk rating that reflects the level of threat posed by each hazard. Be realistic in your ratings. The assessment should be backed by sound reasoning, as examiners will mark you on your ability to evaluate risks effectively.
7. Residual risk and action follow-up
Finally, after recommending additional controls, you must determine the new risk level and indicate who will be responsible for monitoring these controls. Always use job titles, not names (e.g. “Facilities Manager”) to ensure clarity.
8. Record and submit your findings
You’ll use a provided template in the form to record your findings. Ensure that all fields are completed, as missing details can cost you easy marks. Don’t forget to double-check your work before submitting it within the 14-day window.
Why is the IOSH risk assessment project so important?
The practical risk assessment project is an opportunity for you to apply the skills you’ve learned in a real-world setting.
You will need to be able to identify hazards, do a clear evaluation of that risk, and provide actionable recommendations. All these should be before they cause harm.
During your IOSH Managing Safely course, you’ll play the role of the “assessor,” identify hazards “sensible measures” to control risks, evaluate existing safety controls, and also suggest new ones.
Over my years of teaching and working in various industries, I’ve seen how this project separates theoretical knowledge from practical application.
I’ll never forget the first time I worked on a risk assessment during my early days in health and safety.
I was the Health & Safety Manager for a large manufacturing company, and it was my responsibility to carry out assessments that would ensure everyone went home safe at the end of the day.
I was working with a team of engineers in a factory that used heavy machinery. We had a few close calls with equipment malfunctioning, and I knew something needed to be done.
I remember completing the risk assessment for that site: I identified mechanical risks, physical hazards (such as workers lifting heavy items), and environmental concerns like poor lighting.
Implementing new safety measures and training based on my risk assessment made a huge difference – we reduced accidents by 40% in the first year.
You’ll have 14 days from the end of your course to submit your risk assessment project. It’s recommended to start immediately after the course to ensure you meet the deadline. Make sure to proofread it before submitting to avoid simple mistakes.
To pass the risk assessment project, you need to score at least 23 out of a total of 38 marks. I would recommend you complete every section of the assessment form accurately to maximize your marks.
You have 14 days from the end of your course to submit your risk assessment. Missing this deadline means failing the assessment, and you would need to resit the entire course, so don’t let that happen—mark your calendar!
You’ll be notified and can request feedback. You may be able to resubmit or retake portions of the course.
Yes! Your course instructor and training providerhere at THS are there to help if you encounter any difficulties. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you’re unsure about any part of the project.
Book the IOSH Managing Safely Course Today with THS
The IOSH Managing Safely risk assessment project may seem daunting, but with proper preparation and attention to detail, you can absolutely succeed.
Remember to be thorough, realistic, and specific in your assessment. Apply the principles you’ve learned throughout the course and don’t hesitate to ask your instructor for guidance if needed.
Ready to take the next step in advancing your health and safety knowledge? Book your IOSH Managing Safely course with Train in Health and Safety today!
THS is an IOSH-approved training provider, and we offer flexible online, in-person, and in-company course options. As an experienced instructor, I have over a decade of experience and my courses boast excellent pass rates and reviews.
Call me (Sam) at +44(0)20 8059 3633 or email at [email protected] to secure your spot!
