Before a task begins, take a moment to look for what could cause harm.
In long-term care and home support, things can change quickly. A resident’s needs may change. A client’s home may have new hazards. Equipment may not be nearby. A task that was safe yesterday may need a different plan today.
Risk assessment helps workers and care teams identify hazards early, determine what support is needed, and take steps to prevent injuries and illnesses.
A risk assessment means asking:
The higher the chance of harm, and the more serious the harm could be, the more action is needed before the task begins.
Risk assessments help workers, supervisors, and care teams plan safer work. They also help determine whether current controls are enough, or whether more support, equipment, procedures, or follow-up are needed.
A point-of-care risk assessment is a quick check workers can use before or during care.
Before you begin, pause and ask:
If something does not feel safe, pause the task when you can. Get help, use the right equipment, follow your workplace procedures, and report the concern.
Workers are not expected to manage unsafe conditions alone. Safer work also depends on clear procedures, training, supervision, staffing, equipment, reporting, and follow-up.
Risk assessments should be completed:
Risk assessment can be formal, such as when planning a new procedure or reviewing a hazard. It can also be quick and informal, such as taking a moment before care to check whether the task is safe right now.
Risk assessments can help reduce risks related to:
By helping workers and leaders talk about hazards before something happens, risk assessment supports safer decision-making and a stronger safety culture.
Download the point-of-care risk assessment worksheet and reference card to support safer decision-making before care tasks begin
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A point-of-care assessment is a series of questions to ask yourself about the person in care, environment, the task, and you, as the caregiver.
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