Preliminary analysis
The risk assessment process begins with a preliminary analysis to verify the company's compliance with current regulations and proper management under the specific provisions of each Title of Legislative Decree 81/2008 and related standards,
leading to the definition of corrective and/or improvement actions (technical, organisational, etc.).
The process then moves to analysing and assessing the residual risks associated with each company job role. This phase is crucial for preparing a Risk Assessment Document (DVR) that accurately reflects the company's specific operational characteristics.
The methodology involves Managers and Supervisors under the constant oversight of the Prevention and Protection Service and, where necessary, the Occupational Physician. This approach is geared to gathering information about actual areas of responsibility, producing a DVR that is consistent with the company's reality and shared at all levels. The document must be practically usable, make it easy for those responsible to monitor the established measures, and ensure constant, participatory updating over time.
Risk assessment
The company risk assessment uses the Job Role Analysis method and produces a Risk Assessment Document compliant with regulatory provisions (Article 28 of Legislative Decree 81/2008 and related articles).
This document includes the following key aspects:
- Content specific and relevant to company activities.
- Manageability and updatability through a main document and individual dedicated annexes (for example: job role analysis, specific assessments such as noise risk assessment, health surveillance, and improvement plan).
- Formalisation with signatures and certified date.
Instrumental analyses and specialist assessments
The instrumental analyses and specialist assessments required by Titles II to XI of Legislative Decree 81/2008 are carried out either directly or by assisting and supporting company personnel.
Examples of areas of intervention include:
- Workplaces (including traffic routes and signage).
- Equipment, machinery, and plant.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Display screen equipment (DSE).
- Manual handling of loads (for example, lifting and horizontal transport in accordance with ISO standards).
- Hazardous substances, biological and physical agents (including noise, mechanical vibrations, ionising and non-ionising radiation, indoor climate).
- Explosive atmospheres (ATEX), fire risks, and emergency management.
- Work-related stress assessment, a key component in managing organisational wellbeing.
Regulation of activities involving particular risks
Operations requiring "particular skills" are analysed with attention to the combination of concurrent risks already assessed, taking into account the increased probability and/or severity of harmful events.
Examples of such activities include:
- Work in confined spaces.
- Hot work or work producing ignition sources.
- Handling of hazardous substances.
- Electrical work, pressurised work, or work on critical components.
- Work at height, with particular attention to incident prevention.
- Mechanical handling of materials.
The company risk assessment also includes a detailed review of operational conditions to prevent critical situations and ensure overall worker safety.
FAQ
How is the DVR kept up to date?
The DVR must be updated whenever significant changes occur in working conditions, such as the introduction of new equipment or processes. It is advisable to set up an internal procedure that provides for periodic reviews involving the Head of the Prevention and Protection Service (RSPP) and the Occupational Physician. Continuously monitoring emerging risks — such as work-related stress or new regulations — keeps the DVR adequate. This approach improves safety and reduces the risk of regulatory non-compliance, strengthening worker protection.
What strategies help prevent work-related stress?
Work-related stress can be prevented by regularly analysing working conditions and interviewing employees to identify sources of pressure or discomfort. Promoting a positive working environment with adequate rest areas, time management training, and psychological support helps prevent symptoms. Action plans that improve role clarity within the company also contribute to overall wellbeing and help meet the obligations set out in the DVR.
What is the role of PPE in preventing specific risks?
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential for mitigating risks that cannot be eliminated through technical or organisational measures. Each item of PPE must be selected based on the specific risks of the activity — for example, hard hats for work at height, ear defenders for noisy environments, or gloves for handling hazardous substances. Workers must be trained in the correct use of PPE, and it must always be available and in good condition. Appropriate PPE ensures regulatory compliance and effective protection.
How are risks associated with work at height addressed?
Preventing risks in work at height begins with careful planning and assessment of the specific hazards involved. Collective protection measures such as guardrails or safety nets must be adopted, and appropriate PPE such as harnesses and safety lanyards must be provided. Training workers in the use of equipment and rescue techniques is mandatory. A qualified Supervisor must also monitor operations.
What are the training obligations linked to the DVR?
Worker training is a key element in ensuring the DVR’s effectiveness. Every employee must receive adequate instruction on the specific risks of their role, including safe practices and the use of PPE. Managers and Supervisors must be prepared to recognise risks and intervene promptly. Training must be documented and repeated periodically to stay aligned with any operational or regulatory changes. Investing in training raises awareness and improves workplace safety.
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