Risk assessment checklist for NSW workplaces

Workplace safety is a legal and moral responsibility for all employers — and in New South Wales, that means understanding and applying the right risk assessment processes. Whether you're running a café or managing a growing tech startup, knowing your obligations under WHS laws is essential.

What is a risk assessment?

A risk assessment is a systematic process used to identify, evaluate, and control potential hazards in the workplace. It involves examining all aspects of work to pinpoint what could cause harm to your staff, visitors, or anyone else affected by your business operations.

By assessing these risks, business owners can implement measures to minimise or eliminate them, ensuring a safer working environment.

Why are risk assessments important?

Risk assessments are essential for identifying potential hazards and introducing measures to mitigate them. This proactive approach helps prevent accidents, injuries, and illnesses, while also boosting morale and productivity by fostering a safety-first culture.

But beyond safety, risk assessments are a legal obligation under Australian law.

Commonalities across all states

While each Australian state and territory has its own regulatory body and legislation, most—including NSW, Queensland, WA, South Australia, the ACT, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory—follow the nationally harmonised model WHS laws. Victoria, however, operates under its own Occupational Health and Safety framework.

Despite these differences, the core principles of workplace risk assessment remain broadly consistent across jurisdictions and require employers to:

• Identify hazards in the workplace

• Assess the risks associated with those hazards

• Implement control measures using the hierarchy of controls

• Consult with workers on health and safety matters

• Review and update risk assessments regularly

• Maintain documentation of risk management activities

• Comply with their respective WHS or OHS Acts

These shared responsibilities ensure a baseline of safety and accountability across the country.

Examples of common workplace hazards

• Physical: Slippery floors, exposed wiring, heavy machinery

• Chemical: Cleaning agents, industrial solvents

• Biological: Viruses, bacteria, mould

• Ergonomic: Poor workstation setup, repetitive tasks

• Psychosocial: Stress, bullying, workplace violence

Specific NSW requirements

In NSW, workplace safety is governed by the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Regulation 2017, which align with the national Model WHS laws. Employers must follow the Code of Practice: How to Manage WHS Risks, which outlines a clear four-step process:

1. Identify hazards

2. Assess and control risks

3. Review control measures

4. Keep records of all risk management activities

This code is more than just a guideline — it’s admissible in court and used by inspectors when issuing compliance notices. Duties apply not only to business owners (PCBUs) but also to officers, workers, and even suppliers.

What is a Risk Assessment Matrix

A risk assessment matrix is a crucial tool for Australian employers to evaluate workplace hazards by mapping the likelihood of a risk against its potential consequences. This visual method helps prioritise risks and supports compliance with Work Health and Safety regulations under the WHS Act. By categorising risks from low to catastrophic, employers can implement appropriate controls to protect workers—especially in complex environments like construction, healthcare, or logistics.

As part of a broader WHS risk management process, the matrix aids in identifying, assessing, and controlling hazards, then reviewing the effectiveness of those controls. For instance, a high-likelihood, high-impact hazard like working at heights without protection would demand immediate action. Using the matrix not only aligns with standards but also promotes a proactive safety culture and informed decision-making across teams.

Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS)

For employers in NSW conducting high-risk construction work, a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a legal requirement. This document outlines the hazards, risks, and control measures for specific activities such as working at heights, demolition, or working near live electrical installations.

A SWMS must:

• Be site-specific

• Identify the high-risk work and associated hazards

• Describe control measures and how they’ll be implemented and reviewed

• Be accessible to all workers and supervisors on-site

While SWMS are not required for general low-risk work, they are essential for compliance and safety in construction and other high-risk industries. If your SME operates in these sectors, ensure SWMS are prepared before work begins and reviewed regularly 

Get help with your risk assessments with BrightHR

Conducting regular risk assessments is essential for maintaining a safe workplace. Luckily, BrightHR has risk assessment software to help. BrightSafe offers everything you need to remain compliant with New South Wales WHS laws.

Just some of the benefits include:

• 80+ risk e-learning courses

• Real-time hazard reporting

• 24/7 advice helpline

• Mobile app for on-the-go safety management

Call us on 1300 029 198 or book a free product demo to see how BrightSafe can support your business.