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. 

What is a risk assessment? 

A risk assessment means asking: 

• What could cause harm?  

• Who could be hurt?  

• How likely is it to happen?  

• How serious could it be?  

• What can we do to make the task safer?  

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 quick safety check before care 

A point-of-care risk assessment is a quick check workers can use before or during care. 

Before you begin, pause and ask: 

• Is this task safe right now?  

• Do I have the right equipment?  

• Do I need help?  

• Is the area clear and safe?  

• Has the resident’s or client’s behaviour changed?  

• Has the care plan changed?  

• Are there hazards in the room, home, or work area?  

• Am I focused enough to do this safely?  

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. 

When to complete a risk assessment 

Risk assessments should be completed: 

• before starting tasks  

• when working conditions change  

• when a new hazard is identified  

• after an incident or near miss  

• when new equipment or procedures are introduced  

• when required by regulation  

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. 

What risk assessments can help prevent 

Risk assessments can help reduce risks related to: 

• musculoskeletal injuries  

• slips, trips, and falls  

• violence or aggression  

• infection prevention and control  

• unsafe environments  

• changing resident or client needs  

• missing equipment, unclear procedures, or lack of support  

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.

FAQ