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An Activity Based Risk Assessment Form is a comprehensive safety document that helps you systematically identify, evaluate, and control workplace hazards before beginning any new or modified activity. This form ensures you meet your legal obligations under Canadian occupational health and safety legislation while protecting your workers and demonstrating due diligence in risk management.

When do you need this document?

You must complete an Activity Based Risk Assessment Form whenever you introduce new workplace activities, modify existing processes, or when significant changes occur in your work environment. This includes implementing new equipment or procedures, changing work locations, introducing different materials or chemicals, or when workers will perform unfamiliar tasks. The form is also required during regular safety reviews, before contractors begin work on your premises, and when incidents or near-misses indicate that existing risk controls may be inadequate. Many organizations use this assessment as part of their routine safety management system to continuously monitor and improve workplace safety standards.

Key legal considerations

Your Activity Based Risk Assessment Form must demonstrate systematic hazard identification covering all potential risks including physical, chemical, biological, ergonomic, and psychosocial hazards. The assessment team should include qualified personnel with knowledge of the activity, including supervisors, workers, and safety representatives. You must evaluate both the likelihood and potential consequences of each identified hazard, then implement appropriate control measures following the hierarchy of controls. The form should document existing safety measures, identify gaps, and establish action plans with assigned responsibilities and timelines. Regular reviews and updates are essential, particularly when workplace conditions change or new information about hazards becomes available. Proper documentation demonstrates your commitment to worker safety and provides evidence of due diligence in legal proceedings.

Legal requirements in Canada

Under the Canada Labour Code Part II and federal Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, federally regulated employers must conduct risk assessments and implement prevention programs. Provincial legislation across Canada similarly requires systematic hazard identification and risk assessment for all workplace activities. The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS 2015) must be integrated into your risk assessment when dealing with hazardous chemicals or substances. Your assessment must involve worker participation through safety committees or representatives, and results must be communicated to all affected workers. Documentation must be maintained and made available to safety inspectors, and you must demonstrate that identified risks have been eliminated or controlled to the lowest reasonably practicable level. Regular training and competency verification for assessment team members is also required under most provincial regulations.