Standard Office-Based Roles Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Psychosocial factors and workload — Balance workloads, set clear priorities, and provide regular 1-to-1s. Promote reasonable hours, breaks and leave, and signpost confidential support. Train managers to spot stress indicators, prevent bullying, and agree adjustments after change, illness or return to work.
• Noise and distraction in open plan — Designate quiet zones and collaboration areas; use soft finishes and screens to absorb sound. Encourage headsets for calls, book rooms for long meetings, and set etiquette on speaker use. Offer focus rooms and allow flexible work patterns during planned noisy activities.
• Storage systems and falling objects — Use stable shelving anchored to walls; avoid overloading and store heavy items low. Keep top shelves for light, infrequent items with steps provided. Close drawers, use bookends, and avoid stacking above head height. Inspect quarterly for damage and rectify promptly.
• Lighting and glare — Position screens perpendicular to windows, fit blinds, and use diffuse task lighting where needed. Replace failed bulbs promptly, avoid flicker, and set lighting levels appropriate to tasks. Keep lenses and diffusers clean, and consult users when layouts change to prevent glare.
• Electrical equipment and cables — Use only approved equipment; keep sockets uncrowded and cables managed to avoid trip and heat. Inspect plugs for damage before use, remove faulty kit, and allow adequate ventilation around power supplies. Unplug chargers overnight and train staff on safe isolation in emergencies.