EN ISO 12100: 2010 and ISO TR 14121-2 provide systematized techniques for conducting the risk assessment process. Risk assessment begins with determining the limits of the machine ( specifications). Hazard identification is one of the most important steps in the process, because the risk arising from a hazard can only be reduced if that hazard is identified. Sufficient data for quantitative risk estimation are not always available, so it is sometimes more appropriate to use qualitative risk estimation. The technical report ISO TR 14121-2 gives the main methods for risk assessment:

– Risk matrix

– Risk Graph

– Hazard Rating Number (HRN)

The next step, “Risk Evaluation”, decides whether a risk reduction is necessary. After the implementation of risk reduction measures, a risk assessment must be performed again to verify the residual risk. If the safety measures applied create additional hazards, the risk of these hazards must be assessed and, if necessary, reduced.