This example risk assessment has been prepared using the
F-HS20 General Risk Assessment form template - a purpose-built template designed to focus entirely on what matters: identifying hazards, rating risk and recording controls, without any unnecessary fields getting in the way.
The file is supplied in fully editable MS Word format and can be easily customised and saved to Google Docs format if required. The document uses pre-defined style formatting throughout with styles to match the risk-ratings which are input using select boxes pre-populated with all possible risk ratings. All text is in Calibri font for improved readability.
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Use of Woodworking Machinery Risk Assessment
This fully completed use of woodworking machinery risk assessment example has been prepared by a qualified health and safety professional. It covers a typical range of hazards associated with use of woodworking machinery in a workshop or joinery environment including circular saws, band saws, routers, planers, and spindle moulders, and can be used as a starting point when developing your own risk assessment documentation.
What Does This Use of Woodworking Machinery Risk Assessment Cover?
This risk assessment identifies the key hazards associated with use of woodworking machinery including;
- Contact with rotating blades causing severe lacerations and amputations
- Inhalation of wood dust particularly hardwood and medium-density fibreboard (MDF) dust causing occupational asthma and nasal cancer
- Workpiece ejection and kickback from circular saws and routers causing struck-by injuries
- Noise-induced hearing loss from sustained high noise levels generated by woodworking machines
- Entanglement in unguarded moving parts of planers, spindle moulders, and belt sanders
Each hazard includes an inherent risk rating and a listing of applicable control measures covering areas such as;
- Machine guards in correct position and adjusted before each use; no guard removal during operation
- LEV (local exhaust ventilation) extraction on all woodworking machinery; FFP3 respirator for hardwood and MDF
- Push sticks, featherboards, and anti-kickback devices used for all narrow and short workpieces
- Hearing protection zone established; suitable hearing protection worn by all in the woodworking area
- Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) competency assessment before unsupervised machine use
A residual risk rating is then assigned to each hazard, demonstrating how effective risk management can be used to reduce the overall risk to a tolerable level.
A Professional, Easy-to-Use Risk Assessment Template
This document uses colour-coded header styles matched to risk ratings, making it quick to read and easy to communicate during toolbox talks and worker training. A built-in risk rating matrix supports consistent evaluation of likelihood and consequence, and hazard pictograms using internationally recognised ISO warning symbols are included alongside relevant hazard entries — improving clarity and helping to highlight risks and mandatory controls.
The result is a completed risk assessment that looks professional, reads clearly, and demonstrates a structured and effective approach to risk management.
Who Is This Use of Woodworking Machinery Risk Assessment Suitable For?
This use of woodworking machinery risk assessment is suitable for health and safety advisers, workshop managers, joiners, and any employer operating woodworking machinery with a duty to assess risks under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998. It can be implemented as a standalone document or as part of a broader occupational health and safety management system aligned with ISO 45001.
Note: This example risk assessment is supplied for use as guidance only and should be reviewed and completed by a competent person.