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RA-HS41 Loading and Unloading Vehicles
RA-HS41 Loading and Unloading Vehicles
File Reference : RA-HS41 Loading and Unloading Vehicles
Date File Updated 09-03-26
File Format MS Word
No. of files 1
Category Risk Assessments
Tags: FORS

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Effective form templates

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.
The following document labelling is included in the footer:

  • Form number and title
  • Information-classification
  • Version
  • Page number / total pages
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Loading and Unloading Vehicles Risk Assessment

This fully completed loading and unloading vehicles risk assessment example has been prepared by a qualified health and safety professional. It covers a typical range of hazards, risks and associated control measures for all activities associated with loading and unloading vehicles at the workplace and can be used as a starting point when developing your own risk assessment documentation.

What Does This Loading and Unloading Risk Assessment Cover?

This risk assessment identifies the key hazards associated with loading and unloading vehicles including;
  • Falls from vehicle loading areas — operatives falling from the rear of vehicles, tail-lifts, dock levellers or loading bays causing fatal or serious injuries
  • Struck by moving vehicles in loading areas — vehicles reversing and manoeuvring in loading bays striking pedestrians causing fatal crush injuries
  • Manual handling injuries — lifting, carrying and repositioning of heavy or awkward goods during loading and unloading operations causing musculoskeletal injury

Each hazard includes an inherent risk rating ranging from Moderate to Substantial, and a comprehensive listing of applicable control measures covering areas such as;

  • Dock levellers, vehicle restraints and bay edge protection to prevent falls between vehicle and bay
  • Tail-lifts inspected under LOLER; safe system of work posted; operatives trained before use
  • Pedestrian and vehicle routes in loading areas segregated with physical barriers
  • Banksman or traffic marshal deployed to guide all vehicle movements in the loading area
  • Vehicles not permitted to move while loading or unloading is in progress
  • Mechanical handling aids (pallet trucks, conveyors, hoists) used wherever practicable

A residual risk rating is then assigned to each hazard, demonstrating how effective risk management reduces 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 Risk Assessment Template Suitable For?

This loading and unloading vehicles risk assessment template is suitable for health and safety advisers, logistics managers, warehouse supervisors and any employer with a duty to assess risks associated with vehicle loading and unloading operations. 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.

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