Templates
Risk Assessment Template – free for Word, PDF and Excel free & workplace-ready
Free · Version 2026.10
Assess workplace hazards with a risk matrix and record controls with deadlines. The free risk assessment template works in Excel, Google Sheets, Word and as a fillable PDF and covers the United Kingdom, Ireland and the United States.
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- Workplace-ready
- Excel & Google Sheets
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Frequently asked questions about Risk Assessment
What is a risk assessment and why do you need a template?
A **risk assessment** is the systematic process of identifying workplace hazards, judging who could be harmed, and putting controls in place. It is a core employer duty, not optional paperwork for "office only" businesses.
When is a risk assessment mandatory?
Before work starts in a new role or location, and whenever processes, equipment, or staffing change materially. US OSHA programmes expect hazard identification for covered workplaces; UK law requires suitable and sufficient risk assessment before exposure. Update after incidents or near misses.
Who needs to create the risk assessment?
In the US, employers must provide a workplace free of recognised hazards under OSHA's general duty clause and related standards; in the UK, employers must assess risks and act under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act, usually documented for HSE. The responsible person is typically the employer or a competent appointee. The Ordio Excel template structures hazards, ratings, and controls.
Is the risk assessment template free, and does it work in Excel and Google Sheets?
Yes. You download it free of charge after a short form and get an Excel file (.xlsx, Excel 2016 or Microsoft 365) and a Google Sheets copy, plus a fillable PDF and a Word document. Excel and Sheets contain the same 6 sheets: Instructions, Details, Hazards, Checks, Legal basis, Ordio.
Which countries does the template cover?
The template covers the United Kingdom, Ireland and the United States. The country notes in the file set out the rules for each: United Kingdom: Risk assessment duty under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, reg. 3; record the significant findings if you have 5 or more employees. Ireland: written risk assessment and a Safety Statement are required for every workplace (Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, ss. 19–20). United States: no general federal written risk-assessment duty; OSHA’s General Duty Clause (OSH Act s. 5(a)(1)) and specific standards (e.g. hazard communication) apply.
What does the template check automatically?
The “Checks” sheet shows ✔ or ⚠ for: Details complete; Hazards identified (step 1); Stress/psychosocial risks assessed; Controls set for medium/high risks (step 3); No overdue actions; No high residual risk; Staff consulted; Review planned (step 5).