Risk assessment checklist for QLD workplaces

Workplace safety is a legal and moral responsibility for all employers — and in Queensland, 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 Queensland requirements

In Queensland, workplace safety is governed by the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and the WHS Regulation 2011, which also align with the national Model WHS laws. Employers — including SMEs — must follow a structured risk management process that includes:

1. Identifying hazards in the workplace

2. Assessing risks associated with those hazards

3. Implementing control measures using the hierarchy of controls

4. Reviewing and maintaining those controls over time

This process is supported by various Codes of Practice and guidance materials provided by WorkSafe Queensland. Employers must also ensure that risk management activities are documented and accessible, especially in the event of inspections or incidents.

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 businesses involved in high-risk construction work, Queensland law requires the preparation of a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) before work begins. The SWMS must:

• Be site-specific

• Be provided to the principal contractor

• Be reviewed and updated as needed

• Be kept on-site and followed strictly during work

If work deviates from the SWMS, it must be stopped immediately until compliance is restored. This requirement applies to all duty holders, including PCBUs, supervisors, and workers.

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 Queensland 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.