How can you conduct a thorough electromechanical risk assessment?

2 Identify the hazards

The next step is to identify the hazards that could cause harm to people, property, or the environment due to the electromechanical system. You should consider all possible sources of energy, such as electricity, heat, pressure, and motion, and how they could interact with the system components, materials, and surroundings. You should also consider the human factors, such as human error, misuse, or sabotage, that could affect the system performance. You can use various methods to identify the hazards, such as brainstorming, checklists, inspections, and historical data.

3 Evaluate the risks

The third step is to evaluate the risks that result from the hazards, which means estimating the likelihood and severity of the consequences. You should use a risk matrix or a similar tool to rank the risks according to their level of significance, such as high, medium, or low. You should also consider the existing controls, such as protective devices, safety procedures, and emergency plans, that could reduce the risks. You should document the risk evaluation process and the results in a risk register or a similar format.

4 Control the risks

The fourth step is to control the risks by applying the hierarchy of controls, a framework that prioritizes the most effective and feasible measures to eliminate or minimize the risks. This hierarchy consists of five levels: elimination, substitution, engineering, administrative, and personal protective equipment (PPE). You should select the most suitable control measures for each risk and implement them according to a risk control plan. Additionally, you should monitor and review the effectiveness of the control measures and make adjustments as needed. Removing the hazard or source of energy from the system is the most effective way to reduce risk, followed by replacing it with a less hazardous or less energetic one. Designing or modifying the system to prevent or reduce exposure is also important. Implementing policies, procedures, training, and supervision can ensure safe operation and maintenance of the system. Finally, providing appropriate equipment such as gloves, goggles, and helmets can protect workers from the hazard or source of energy.

5 Communicate and consult

The fifth step is to communicate and consult with the stakeholders throughout the risk assessment process. You should inform them of the risks and the control measures, and seek their feedback and input. You should also document and report the risk assessment findings and recommendations, and ensure that they are understood and accepted by the stakeholders. You should also establish a communication and consultation mechanism to facilitate the ongoing exchange of information and updates on the system status and the risk management actions.

6 Review and update

The sixth and final step is to review and update the risk assessment periodically or whenever there are changes in the system, the environment, or the regulations. You should check if the risks and the control measures are still valid and effective, and identify any new or emerging hazards or risks. You should also evaluate the performance and outcomes of the system and the risk management process, and identify any lessons learned or best practices. You should update the risk assessment documents and communicate the changes to the stakeholders.