Risk Assessment Wizard

Create clear, professional risk assessments in minutes. List hazards, set measures and assign responsibilities, then download a clean PDF branded with your organisation.

Get Started

  • Create a Risk Assessment
Students conducting science experiments
School & Education

Science Laboratory Risk Assessment Template

The complete guide to creating professional risk assessments for science experiments and laboratory work.

Create Risk Assessment Download Guide PDF
Free to use Instant PDF download Updated February 2026

In This Guide

1 Introduction & Overview 2 Activity Benefits 3 Hazards & Control Measures 4 Safety Checklist 5 Related Guides

The essential guide to science lab safety

Science laboratories are essential learning environments where students develop practical skills through hands-on experimentation. From chemistry to biology and physics, lab work presents unique hazards that require careful management.

This guide covers everything you need to create a thorough science laboratory risk assessment—from chemical handling and glassware safety to heat sources, fume extraction, and emergency procedures.

Student examining scientific sample
Educational
Activity Benefits

Why science labs are worth the investment

Hands-On Learning

Brings scientific concepts to life through hands-on investigation.

Critical Thinking

Develops critical thinking, hypothesis testing, and data literacy.

Teamwork Skills

Strengthens teamwork and communication during shared experiments.

Career Pathways

Links learning to real world STEM pathways and careers.

Risk Identification

Key hazards & control measures

Chemical HazardsHigh Risk
Potential Harm

Chemical burns, poisoning, skin irritation, accidental ingestion.

Control Measures
  • Safety goggles and lab coats mandatory
  • Chemicals stored securely with clear labelling
  • Fume cupboard used for volatile substances
  • Staff trained in chemical safety
Glassware BreakageHigh Risk
Potential Harm

Cuts, puncture wounds, infection from broken glass.

Control Measures
  • Heat-resistant glassware used correctly
  • Damaged glassware disposed of safely
  • Proper handling techniques taught
  • Glass disposal containers provided
Heat & FireHigh Risk
Potential Harm

Burns, fire risk, smoke inhalation from Bunsen burners and heat sources.

Control Measures
  • Hair tied back, loose clothing secured
  • Fire extinguisher and blanket accessible
  • Proper use of Bunsen burners demonstrated
  • Heat mats used for hot equipment
Fumes & VentilationMedium Risk
Potential Harm

Respiratory irritation, poisoning from chemical fumes.

Control Measures
  • Fume cupboards used for volatile chemicals
  • Laboratory well ventilated
  • Experiments with fumes planned carefully
  • Extraction systems regularly maintained

This guide covers the most common hazards. Our risk assessment wizard includes 21 hazards and 40+ control measures for Science Laboratory, sourced from industry guidance — create your assessment in minutes.

Safety Checklist

Pre-experiment checklist

Laboratory

  • Benches clear and clean
  • Ventilation working
  • Emergency exits clear
  • Fire equipment accessible

Equipment

  • Glassware inspected
  • Gas taps checked
  • Electrical equipment tested
  • Fume cupboard functional

PPE

  • Safety goggles available
  • Lab coats ready
  • Gloves if required
  • Hair ties provided

Procedures

  • Safety briefing given
  • Emergency procedures known
  • First aid kit accessible
  • Waste disposal planned

Create your science lab risk assessment now

Use our free template builder to create a comprehensive risk assessment in minutes.

Create Risk Assessment View Sample PDF