Risk Assessments

A risk assessment is a comprehensive document developed to select appropriate workplace controls that evaluates the probability and degree of possible illness, injury or death in a hazardous situation.

WorksafeBC requires a qualified professional to conduct a risk assessment of hazardous materials (i.e lead and asbestos) before they are disturbed, repaired or removed. The purpose of the risk assessment is to:

1. Determine the risk of the hazardous materials to workers who may come into contact with them during the course of their daily activities.
2. Determine the condition of the hazardous materials so that they can be properly managed.
3. Classify the risk level for work activity. In asbestos abatement activities, risk levels are classified as Low, Moderate or High.

If you have multiple work locations, a risk assessment must be done for each workplace. The hazards and the risks they pose, may be different from site to site.
Risk assessments should be reviewed whenever you introduce new equipment, materials, or work processes.

Shutdown by WorksafeBC? The regulatory consequences of contractors not identifying asbestos properly, not removing it safely, and not following safe work procedures, include stop-work orders and fines from WorkSafeBC. Stop work orders issued by WorkSafeBC can be costly, time consuming and complicated! Trust Epoch Environmental Consulting to get your project back on track quickly and ensure your project meets the criteria of WorkSafeBC OHS regulation. If word gets out that a contractor has cut corners or doesn’t take safety and asbestos exposure seriously, it can do significant harm to a company’s professional reputation.