How to Complete a Point-of-Work Risk Assessment (Free Template Included)

A Point-of-Work Risk Assessment (POWRA) is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent accidents — yet most organisations either skip it or complete it incorrectly.

Unlike formal risk assessments, a POWRA is a quick, on-the-spot safety check completed at the time and location of the task.Whether you're a contractor, manager, or employer, this guide explains:

• What a POWRA is
• When you need one
• How to complete one correctly
• Common mistakes to avoid
• Includes a free downloadable POWRA template

What Is a Point-of-Work Risk Assessment?

A POWRA is a dynamic, real-time check used to identify immediate hazards before starting work.It is essential when:

• Conditions change
• Weather impacts safety
• Permits have expired
• New equipment is used
• Multiple contractors are on-site
• You haven’t visited the area before

It ensures workers pause and ask:

“Is it safe to start work right now?”

Why a POWRA Matters

A formal risk assessment may have been completed weeks or months earlier.

But job sites change every day. A POWRA covers:

• Hidden hazards
• New risks
• Uncontrolled changes
• Worker readiness
• Environmental factors
• Equipment condition

It is your last line of defence before a task begins.

How to Complete a POWRA (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Stop – assess the area

Walk the immediate work zone. Look for:

• Slips, trips, uneven ground
• Other trades working nearby
• Poor lighting
• Confined spaces
• Traffic routes

Step 2: Identify task-specific hazards

Consider:

• Tools and equipment
• Working at height
• Manual handling
• Hot work
• Noise, dust, or fumes

Step 3: Evaluate the risks

Ask:

• What could go wrong?
• Who could be harmed?
• How badly?

Step 4: Apply control measures

Examples:

• Barriers and signage
• PPE
• Better lighting
• Changing work order
• Using the right tools
• Stopping work if controls are not adequate

Step 5: Communicate and agree

All workers must understand and agree on the controls before work begins.

Step 6: Record it

A simple tick sheet is enough — download ours below.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ “We did a risk assessment last month — we don’t need one today.”

❌ Completing a POWRA after the job starts

❌ Not checking for other contractors

❌ Rushing because the job feels routine

❌ Not stopping the job when unsafeA POWRA only works if people take it seriously.

Download Your Free POWRA Template

👉 [Free Point-of-Work Risk Assessment Template – PDF]

(Lead magnet included in section below)

Need Help With Your Risk Assessments?

PDCA Consultancy provides:

• Bespoke risk assessments
• Site visits
• Training on completing POWRAs
• Competent person support

Contact us at lyonwilliam297@gmail.com or 07804637679.

Point of Work Risk Assessment Template