Risk Assessment Policy

Last Updated: 02/06/2026

1. Purpose

The purpose of this Risk Assessment Policy is to ensure that Platinum Smiles Dental Laboratory identifies, evaluates, and controls risks associated with its activities, in order to protect the health, safety, and wellbeing of employees, clients, and visitors, and to comply with UK health and safety legislation.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors, and covers all activities undertaken within the dental laboratory, including the handling of materials, equipment use, and administrative tasks.

3. Legal Framework

This policy is implemented in accordance with relevant UK legislation, including:

• Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
• Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
• Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002
• Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992

4. Responsibilities

4.1 Employer / Laboratory Owner

• Ensure suitable and sufficient risk assessments are carried out.
• Provide a safe working environment, equipment, and systems of work.
• Implement control measures identified through risk assessments.
• Ensure staff receive appropriate training and supervision.

4.2 Laboratory Manager

• Conduct and regularly review risk assessments.
• Ensure control measures are implemented and maintained.
• Maintain records of all assessments and reviews.

4.3 Employees

• Follow all safety procedures and control measures.
• Use equipment and PPE correctly.
• Report hazards, risks, or incidents immediately.

5. Risk Assessment Process

Risk assessments will follow a structured process:

5.1 Hazard Identification

Identify potential hazards, including but not limited to:

• Exposure to dusts, chemicals, and acrylics
• Use of laboratory machinery and sharp instruments
• Biological hazards from dental impressions and appliances
• Slips, trips, and manual handling risks

5.2 Risk Evaluation

Assess:

• The likelihood of harm occurring
• The severity of potential harm
• Who may be affected

5.3 Control Measures

Apply the hierarchy of control:

• Eliminate the hazard where possible
• Substitute with a safer alternative
• Implement engineering controls (e.g., extraction systems)
• Introduce administrative controls (procedures, training)
• Use PPE as a last line of defence

5.4 Recording

All significant findings must be documented, including:

• Identified hazards
• Risk level
• Control measures in place
• Further actions required

6. Specific Risk Areas

6.1 COSHH (Hazardous Substances)

• All hazardous substances must have a current COSHH assessment.
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS) must be available and accessible.
• Appropriate storage, handling, and disposal procedures must be followed.

6.2 Equipment and Machinery

• All equipment must be regularly inspected and maintained.
• Only trained staff may operate machinery.
• Guards and safety devices must not be removed or bypassed.

6.3 Infection Control

Risks associated with cross-contamination must be assessed and controlled in line with the laboratory’s Infection Control Policy.

6.4 Fire Safety

Fire risks must be assessed and appropriate measures implemented, including extinguishers, alarms, and evacuation procedures.

6.5 Manual Handling

• Assess tasks involving lifting or repetitive movement.
• Provide training and equipment where necessary.

7. Training and Communication

• All staff must receive training on risk assessment and relevant safety procedures.
• Findings of risk assessments must be communicated to all affected staff.

8. Monitoring and Review

Risk assessments must be reviewed:

• Annually
• Following an incident or near miss
• When processes, materials, or equipment change

9. Incident Reporting

• All accidents, near misses, and hazards must be reported and recorded.
• Investigations will be conducted where necessary to prevent recurrence.

10. Record Keeping

• Risk assessments must be documented and retained.
• Records must be accessible for inspection and review.

11. Compliance and Enforcement

Failure to comply with this policy may result in disciplinary action. The laboratory is committed to continuous improvement in health and safety standards.

12. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required by changes in legislation or working practices.

13. Contact Information

Platinum Smiles Dental Laboratory: 59 Loughborough Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham, NG2 7LA
Phone: 07955218000
Email: pbarrett@platinumsmiles.co.uk