Hazard assessment or risk assessment – what is the difference?

Although both terms are often used synonymously, they refer to different processes, and it is essential for employers to distinguish between them: The hazard assessment focuses on the employee and relates to the specific workplace – regulated by the Occupational Health and Safety Act. The risk assessment, on the other hand, is product-related and deals with the specific risks posed by equipment and machinery. It is carried out within the framework of the Machinery Directive (soon to be the Machinery Ordinance) and is a prerequisite for the declaration of conformity and thus also for the CE marking of machinery. Especially in the field of collaborative robotics, the lines between manufacturer and operator of a machine often blur, as many companies develop and implement their own applications. It is crucial to understand that if you build a robot application yourself, you are responsible not only for the operator's obligations (including conducting a hazard assessment) but also for the manufacturer's obligations, including CE marking and the creation of a risk assessment. Of course, Cobot Safety is also available to support you as a reliable partner in this regard.

Have a risk assessment carried out

Have a risk assessment carried out – for greater safety in the workplace.

The risk assessment is a central component of occupational safety – and legally required. Whether when using new machines, making process changes, or working with collaborative robots: anyone who commissions a risk assessment not only fulfills their operator obligations but also actively protects the health of their employees and the company itself. Andreas Schunkert, Managing Director of Cobot Safety[Name] is your experienced expert for machine safety when it comes to professional risk assessments. As a certified expert, he guarantees legally compliant documentation and practical implementation.

Enquire now!

What is a risk assessment?

A risk assessment is a structured process for identifying and evaluating workplace hazards. Its aim is to recognize risks early and minimize them through appropriate protective measures. It forms the basis for effective occupational safety and is an integral part of a functioning safety management system.

Legally, this obligates Occupational Health and Safety Act (§ 5 ArbSchG) Every employer is required to conduct a risk assessment – regardless of industry or company size. The results must be documented and regularly updated. By commissioning a risk assessment, employers not only fulfill a legal obligation but also assume responsibility for safety and health in the workplace.

Hazard assessment or risk assessment – what is the difference?
Although both terms are often used synonymously, they refer to different processes, and it is essential for employers to distinguish between them:

The hazard assessment focuses on the employee and relates to the specific workplace – regulated by the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

The risk assessment, on the other hand, is product-related and deals with the specific risks posed by equipment and machinery. It is carried out within the framework of the Machinery Directive (soon to be the Machinery Ordinance) and is a prerequisite for the declaration of conformity and thus also for the CE marking of machinery.

Especially in the field of collaborative robotics, the lines between manufacturer and operator of a machine often blur, as many companies develop and implement their own applications. It is crucial to understand that if you build a robot application yourself, you are responsible not only for the operator's obligations (including conducting a hazard assessment) but also for the manufacturer's obligations, including CE marking and the creation of a risk assessment. Of course, Cobot Safety is also available to support you as a reliable partner in this regard.

Why you should have a risk assessment carried out

To have a risk assessment carried out, protects people, processes and companies Likewise. It is not only legally required, but also actively contributes to accident prevention, strengthening occupational safety, and ensuring compliance with operator obligations. Those who identify hazards early and implement appropriate protective measures minimize risks, reduce downtime, and act with economic foresight.

A new risk assessment is always required when... when working conditions change – be it through new machinery, restructuring, changed processes, or the use of robots. A new assessment may also be required for software implementations or technical expansions. According to occupational health and safety law, employers are obligated to to regularly check whether existing measures are sufficient – and, if necessary, to have an updated risk assessment carried out or to adapt the existing risk assessment.

What happens if no risk assessment is available?

Failure to conduct a risk assessment can have serious consequences. Authorities can impose fines, operational restrictions may be imposed, and in serious cases, even criminal prosecution could occur. If an accident happens, you as the employer are liable – especially if the risk assessment was not documented.

Who is authorized to conduct a risk assessment?

The person responsible for the risk assessment is always the Employer This is stipulated by the Occupational Health and Safety Act. The implementation can be carried out internally, for example by a qualified occupational safety specialist. Alternatively, it is also possible to commission external experts or specialized service providers.

Especially with complex workflows, the use of automated systems, or industry-specific requirements, it can be beneficial to have a risk assessment conducted externally. Specialized partners like Cobot Safety bring this expertise. interdisciplinary expertise with, are familiar with current standards and legal requirements and offer a objective viewpointThis reduces the risk of misjudgments and relieves internal resources, allowing them to focus on day-to-day operations.

Andreas Schunkert is available to you as experienced expert We will provide competent support to create a legally compliant risk assessment for you.

Enquire now!

This is how a professional risk assessment is carried out.

When you commission a risk assessment, the process follows a clear procedure.:

Identification of hazards and risks in the workplace

Assessment of risks and burdens – taking into account severity, probability of occurrence and duration of exposure

Derivation of suitable protective measures

Documentation of all steps, measures and tests

Regular review of effectiveness

Especially in collaborative robot systems, special testing methods are used – for example, to test for the force exerted during collisions or to analyze safety-related controls.

Have a risk assessment carried out – with Cobot Safety you're on the safe side.

Cobot Safety is your strong partner if you want to have a risk assessment carried out – legally compliant, understandable and efficient. Andreas Schunkert, Managing Director of Cobot Safety, is as certified expert and active member of international standardization bodies one of the leading experts in machine safety and hazard assessments in robotics.

Your advantages with Cobot Safety:

many years of experience in collaborating with operators of machines and robot systems
Expertise in the application of current standards
comprehensive advice on security, documentation and protective measures
Fast processing and personal contact persons

Have your risk assessment prepared now – professionally and legally compliant.

Enquire now