Biological Risk Assessment
Identify and prevent biological risks in the workplace
A biological risk assessment – or biological workplace assessment – is designed to identify, evaluate and prevent risks related to biological factors in the workplace. At Human House, we help your organisation gain an overview of how bacteria, viruses, fungal spores or other microorganisms may affect employee health. At the same time, we offer expert advice on how to effectively prevent injury and illness.
Why is a biological risk assessment important?
A biological risk assessment in the workplace is essential to ensure a healthy and safe working environment. Many sectors – for example, the healthcare sector, laboratories and food production – are exposed daily to biological agents such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, or other harmful microorganisms. Without a systematic assessment of biological risks, employees may be exposed to diseases, allergies, or long-term health issues.
A biological risk assessment identifies and evaluates possible sources of infection and exposure, providing the basis for implementing the preventive measures required to maintain a safe and healthy working environment. This may include the use of personal protective equipment, adjustments to work processes, or the introduction of new hygiene procedures. In this way, the risk of work-related illness and absenteeism is reduced, while wellbeing and productivity in the workplace are strengthened.
Examples of biology in the workplace
Hospitals and laboratories
In hospitals and laboratories, blood samples, needles and biological fluids may carry infectious agents such as hepatitis or HIV.
Nurseries, kindergartens, and schools
In nurseries and schools, employees can be exposed to bacteria and viruses that cause illnesses such as influenza, norovirus, or chickenpox.
Cleaning industry
In the cleaning industry, mould, mildew and bacteria may thrive in damp environments, leading to allergies or respiratory disorders.
Food industry
In food businesses, handling raw meat and vegetables carries the risk of salmonella, listeria or E.coli infections.
Create security and promote health in your workplace
Biological risks may arise in any environment – from offices with poor indoor air quality to abattoirs, childcare settings, laboratories and hospitals. Regardless of your industry, a biological workplace assessment helps create a working environment where the risk of infection and long-term health problems is minimised.
How to get advice on biological occupational health and safety
We offer a professional and pragmatic approach to biological risk assessment, tailored to both small and large workplaces. Our consultants can help with:
Mapping biological risks
For example, identifying mould in ventilation systems, bacterial growth in water systems, or exposure to animal hair and allergens in veterinary practices.
Review of legislation and practice
We guide you to comply with requirements for registration and management, for example how to document work processes with a high risk of biological exposure.
Preparation of action plans
We provide concrete recommendations, for example on the use of personal protective equipment, safe waste handling, or routines for cleaning work equipment.
Dialogue and involvement
For example, through workshops where employees learn to spot signs of mould, use gloves correctly, or manage needlestick injuries.
Documentation and follow-up
We ensure that all material complies with authority requirements and that you can document your efforts, for example during inspections or audits.
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