E-fact 35: Risk assessment for care workers

Following a brief introduction to home care work and occupational safety and health (OSH) issues related to care worker activities, this e-fact includes sections on how to do a risk assessment and how to use a checklist. An example of a general checklist to help answer the question ‘Does the hazard exist at the workplace?’ is provided. An extensive list of ‘Proposed solutions and examples of preventive measures’ is then considered for the different questions posed in this checklist. A case study is then presented, showing how appropriate education and training and the use of risk assessment tools and a resource guide can alter a home care worker’s perception of OSH issues and, in this way, reduce the potential for injuries and claims. Finally, at the end of the e-fact, sources of further information are listed.