Appendix A8: Suggested Risk Assessment Methodology

An example of the steps necessary to complete a risk assessment is given below. This is not the only way to perform a risk assessment but this method helps to assess health and safety risks in a straightforward manner. It is not expected that all risks will be eliminated but protection of people by reduction of risk to an acceptable level is required.

Step 1 - Identify the hazards.

The types of hazards identified and the methods used will vary according to the complexity of the installation.
Areas to be considered when identifying the hazards may/will include;
Site location, site evaluation, hydrogen storage location, security, choice of materials, access, deliberate attack and vandalism, impact, ventilation, fire protection, location of safety sensors, connection to grid.
A suitable emergency plan should be drawn up in the event of a leak or fire.

Step 2 - Decide who may be harmed and how.

For each hazard identified in Step 1 assess who might be harmed and how.

Step 3 - Evaluate the risks and decide what to do about them

Consideration should be given to removing the hazard and if that is not practical, how the hazard can be reduced or controlled.

Step 4 - Record and implement the findings

The risk assessment should show that all significant hazards have been recorded and addressed and how the hazards will be eliminated or if they cannot be eliminated how their effects will be minimised. Employees must be informed about the outcome of the risk assessment. The precautions taken should be reasonable and if there is a residual risk it should be low.

Step 5 - Review the Risk Assessment and update if and when necessary

Records of the installation, maintenance checks and servicing should be kept.

Any changes to the installation, work activities, process or incidents should be recorded and the risk assessment reviewed and if necessary additional safety measures implemented.
A risk assessment can be considered as “suitable and sufficient” if it has:

• correctly identified  all the hazards
• disregarded inconsequential risks and those trivial risks associated with life in general
• determined the likelihood of injury or harm arising
• identified those who may be at particular risk, such as pregnant, elderly or disabled persons
• taken into account any existing control measures
• identified any specific legal duty or requirement relating to the hazard
• provided sufficient information to decide upon appropriate control measures, taking into account the latest scientific developments and advances
• enabled the remedial measures to be prioritised
• will remain valid for a reasonable period of time
• Assistance in producing risk assessments is available in books, videos and training sessions. Many consultancy organisations exist that can assist with or prepare risk assessments for their clients.