1 = low, 5 = high

Severity

Likelihood

Trivial

Minor injury

Over 3 days injury

Major injury

Incapacity or death

Highly unlikely

1

2

3

4

5

Unlikely

2

4

6

8

10

Possible

3

6

9

12

15

Probable

4

8

12

16

20

Certain

5

10

15

20

25

Area

Across all spaces

Risk / Hazard

Description of Risk / Hazard

Severity

Likelihood

Risk Level

Actions to mitigate risk

New Risk level

Trip/Fall Hazards

Loose cables, easel or table or equipment legs, cluttered spaces, student / visitor belongings, open storage, uneven floors

3

3

9

Running is not permitted in our building

1.5m clear wide walkways are maintained at all times

Ensure adequate lighting in all areas, especially where fine detail work is needed.

Place caution signs where spills have occurred or in areas with potential trip hazards.

6

Heavy Lifting

Moving artworks, easels, furniture, materials, equipment

3

3

9

Encourage team lifting for larger items like sculptures, canvases, and furniture

Students and visitors should not lift heavy objects

Staff trained in correct lifting techniques

Trolley, dollies and lifting equipment available

6

Injury from Tools/Equipment

Various art making tools and equipment including sharp instruments and cutting tools, presses, kilns, sewing machines

2

3

6

Tools and equipment belonging to Everybody Arts should only be used under the supervision of trained staff (tutors or technicians) or following the successful completion of a Health and Safety induction and activity risk assessment

2

Respiratory Viruses

Transmission of virus from contact with surfaces or person

3

3

9

Hand sanitiser and washing facilities are available throughout the building

Facilities and equipment cleaned and disinfected frequently

6

Toxic Exposure

Paints, solvents, glazes used in school, studios and gallery prep

3

3

9

Windows in place in school, studios, workshops, and galleries

Where possible we encourage tutors, technicians and studio holders and members to substitute harmful chemicals with less toxic alternatives.

All hazardous substances used or stored in the building must be properly labeled and accompanied by relevant Safety Data Sheets.

Health and safety information provided by tutors and technicians

PPE equipment available (gloves, mask, ear defenders)

Studio holders, members and tutors responsible for their own risk and COSH assessments for activities

2

Improper Storage or Labeling

Flammable or hazardous substances stored incorrectly

3

3

9

Hazardous substances stored in lockable yellow metal cupboards.

All hazardous substances used or stored in the building must be properly labeled and accompanied by relevant Safety Data Sheets.

4

Dust and Particulate Inhalation

From sanding, ceramics, or mixed-media prep

3

3

9

Dust masks are available and should be used when using a room where a dust creating activity is taking place.

2

Overloaded Electrical Circuits

From lighting installations, equipment, or heaters

2

2

4

All electrical devices in the building must be PAT tested.

Electric heaters are not permitted and extension cables should be used sparingly across the rest of the building.

2

Flammable Materials Near Heat Sources

Including in gallery setups or studio spaces

2

2

4

Electrical heaters are not permitted in the building.

Fire extinguishers (appropriate to the types of fire hazards) are available throughout the building.

Irons, hairdryers, glue guns and other heat generating electrical equipment should only be used under tutor or technician supervision or following a health and safety induction.

 Lighting should not be obstructed by draping, papers or other flammable objects or materials.

Ensure staff and students are familiar with fire emergency procedures.

2

Obstructed Exits or Poor Signage

Bikes, furniture, refuse, materials or belonging stored incorrectly

2

6

12

Staff regularly inspect exits and will remove any obstruction.

Clear exit signage is displayed throughout the building.

Emergency Lighting activates during power failures, especially near exits and stairwells.

Evacuation Plans are displayed along evacuation routes. Regular fire drills are conducted.

3

Repetitive Motion Injuries

Long hours painting, drawing, sculpting, digital design

3

2

6

Adjustable chairs and desks are available for drawing, painting, and digital work to encourage proper posture.

Tutors and technicians encourage regular breaks and stretching exercises to reduce the risk of RSI, especially during long periods of activity.

Tutors and technicians encourage rotating tasks that require different postures to avoid prolonged strain on any one body part.

3

Poor Ventilation

Can lead to fume buildup in studios and prep areas

3

2

6

Ensure that all studios and workshops are adequately ventilated with fresh air.

2

Inadequate Lighting

Strains eyes and contributes to fatigue or accidents

3

2

6

Ensure proper lighting in work areas, with sufficient brightness for detailed work and safety.

2

Psychological & Social Risks

Stress/Pressure /Burnout

Isolation or exclusion

Bullying or harassment
Special educational needs

Exposure to triggering or sensitive themes in artwork/discussions

Burnout among staff, tutors, or students

3

3

9

Many staff are mental health first aid trained and we provide access to wellbeing check ins

Create quiet rooms, decompression zones, or wellness spaces.
Clear Codes of Conduct around respect, professionalism, and acceptable behaviour.
We encourage anonymous feedback, regular check-ins, and open communication with leadership.
Monitor and support reasonable expectations around deadlines and assessments.

Use support riders for staff and freelance artists and request information about additional needs and support from students, members and studio holders

3

Physical risk related to disability, mobility,  access needs or enhanced support needs

Inaccessible spaces (studio floor)

Unsafe equipment or furniture for those with limited mobility
Poor signage or lack of visual/audio aids

Fire safety risks for people with hearing or mobility impairments

Fatigue or risk of injury due to lack of rest spaces or adaptive support

3

3

9

Regularly review the physical space for barriers and address them (e.g. ramps, lifts, adjustable desks).

Provide tools and equipment adapted to different physical needs (e.g. ergonomic tools, height-adjustable workstations).

Ensure individuals with mobility or sensory impairments have documented evacuation plans.

Offer low-stimulation environments or rest areas.

Involve disabled artists, students, and staff in the planning of spaces and practices.

Use support riders for staff and freelance artists and request information about additional needs and support from students, members and studio holders

3

Privacy

Exposure of sensitive personal data (e.g. health, gender identity, support needs)

Unwanted photography or filming of individuals or artwork

Insecure storage of documents or digital records

Breaches of confidentiality in group discussions or tutorials

3

3

9

Data Protection Training on GDPR, confidentiality, and responsible data handling.

Create and enforce consent guidelines for photography, filming, or recording.

Offer private rooms for sensitive discussions or tutorials.

Use secure systems for storing and sharing sensitive data (e.g. encrypted files, limited access folders).
Promote a studio and classroom culture where people feel safe to express personal or vulnerable experiences.

3

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Unconscious bias or discriminatory behaviour (intentional or otherwise)

Lack of representation in curriculum, exhibitions, or staff

Barriers to participation based on socioeconomic status, race, gender identity, or other protected characteristics

Cultural insensitivity in materials, artworks, or discussions
Language barriers or exclusion of neurodiverse perspectives

3

3

9

Offer EDI Training for staff

Regularly review programme content to include diverse voices, histories, and practices.
Amplify underrepresented artists through exhibitions and commissions.
Create ways to safely report discrimination or exclusion.
Provide free activities, concessions and subsidised materials to ensure participation regardless of income.
Offer multiple ways to engage with learning — visual, verbal, practical — and respect different processing styles.

3

Area:

Exterior

Risk / Hazard

Description of Risk / Hazard

Severity

Likelihood

Risk Level

Actions to mitigate risk

New risk level

Trip / fall

Uneven pavement leading to building

3

2

6

No running

Sensor lighting installed

4

Traffic accident

Narrow pavement

5

3

15

Single file on pavement

Children must be accompanied by an adult

5

Area

Entrance (School), level 0

Risk / Hazard

Description of Risk / Hazard

Severity

Likelihood

Risk Level

Actions to mitigate risk

Theft / Arson

Door wedged open or left unlocked

5

3

15

Buzzer system installed

Security cameras and alarm systems throughout the building

5

Area

Stairwell - by school entrance from level 0 to level 2

Risk / Hazard

Description of Risk / Hazard

Severity

Likelihood

Risk Level

Actions to mitigate risk

Vertigo

Gaps in between stairs

1

3

3

Use other stairwell

Use handrail

1

Fall

-When carrying materials up and down stairs

3

2

6

Sensor lights installed

Walk carefully when carrying materials and not so many as to obstruct vision

Do not attempt to carry anything too heavy and always in pairs

2

Congestion

Narrow timber stairwell

1

1

1

Wait for stair users to pass before climbing / descending

1

Area

Stairwell - by gallery entrance from level 0 to level 2

Risk / Hazard

Description of Risk / Hazard

Severity

Likelihood

Risk Level

Actions to mitigate risk

Slip / Trip

Stone staircase with uneven surface due to age and wear.

 In wet weather stone may become slippery

3

2

6

No running

Use the hand raiI

Install non slip and reflective strips

3

Area

Print area, Level 0

Risk / Hazard

Description of Risk / Hazard

Severity

Likelihood

Risk Level

Actions to mitigate risk

Trapped fingers, hair or clothing

Heavy printmaking equipment with moving parts

4

3

12

Access to the area is not permitted unless H & S induction specific to print area has been completed

Lone working not permitted

Appropriate PPE to be worn at all times

All hair must be tied back and lose clothing not permitted

No open shoes allowed

List of full instructions on proper use of printmaking equipment in printmaking handbook

8

Burn skin/ stain clothing

Printmaking materials

Gas heater

4

3

12

Access to the area and materials is not permitted unless H & S induction specific to print area has been completed

All hazardous materials must be kept in the locked hazards cupboard and adhere to COSHH policy

List of hazardous materials kept in the cupboard with all items clearly labeled

First aid kit kept near sinks, record any incidents in the incident book and to a member of staff

Gas heater must not be touched- sign not to touch on the heater

List of full instructions on proper use of printmaking equipment in printmaking handbook

COSHH file

Appropriate PPE to be worn at all times

6

Strike by object

Cupboard doors, moving parts on printmaking equipment

2

2

4

Items must be stored carefully

Be aware of objects moving parts through induction

2

Area

Office, level 0

Risk / Hazard

Description of Risk / Hazard

Severity

Likelihood

Risk Level

Actions to mitigate risk

Cuts

Guillotine, paper

4

2

8

Use is not permitted unless H & S induction has been completed

Take care when handling paper

First aid kit and accident book by sinks

3

 Lack of Safety Training

For new students, visiting artists, studio members or studio holders

Implement mandatory health and safety training via inductions, training sessions or introductions for all new staff, tutors, technicians, students, studio members and holders.

Ensure that all new arrivals receive a thorough induction on safety protocols.

Keep records of all training sessions, including dates and attendees.

Poor Emergency Preparedness

No first aid kits, unclear fire exit routes

Develop and communicate clear emergency response plans for fires, spills, accidents, or evacuations.

Provide first aid training for key staff members and ensure first aid kits are easily accessible.

Conduct regular fire drills and emergency response exercises.

Insufficient Insurance or Documentation

For artworks, equipment, or liability in shared spaces

Ensure that risk assessments are completed for all activities and are regularly reviewed.

Ensure adequate insurance coverage for the organisation, its employees, and its students, particularly for artwork, materials, and studio accidents.

Keep accurate records of all risk assessments, safety audits, and incident reports.

Area

Main teaching space, level 1

Risk / Hazard

Description of Risk / Hazard

Severity

Likelihood

Risk Level

Actions to mitigate risk

Burn / scald

Tea / coffee station with kettle and microwave

2

2

4

Keep area clean and tidy

Signage

Take care whilst pouring

2

Area

Second teaching space, level 0

Risk / Hazard

Description of Risk / Hazard

Severity

Likelihood

Risk Level

Actions to mitigate risk

Burn / scald

Hot water from sinks

Turps bins kept in the area

2

3

6

Signs to warn of hot water

Turps disposal bins

3

Area

1-1 room

Risk / Hazard

Description of Risk / Hazard

Severity

Likelihood

Risk Level

Actions to mitigate risk

Burn / scald

Exposed boiler and pipes in room

2

2

4

Signs not to touch pipes

2

Area

Ceramics Workshop area, level 0

Risk / Hazard

Description of Risk / Hazard

Severity

Likelihood

Risk Level

Actions to mitigate risk

Cut/maimed

Moving machinery and hardware tools and equipment

4

4

16

Only authorized staff to use machinery who have been properly trained.

8

Heavy bags of clay

Injury from lifting heavy clay bags

2

3

6

Students to only carry 1 bag of clay at once

Staff responsible for moving multiple bags, trolleys used where possible.

Walkways kept clear to enable easy movement when carrying clay

3

Pug mill

Injury to hands or fingers if trapped in pug mill

3

2

6

Only trained staff will use the pug mill

Safety mechanism on machine to prevent injury

3

Irritation to skin, breathing difficulties, ingestion

Glazes

4

3

12

Explain risks.

Avoid contact with skin when possible.

Use PPE were assessed as required

Avoid inhaling powdered glaze.

No food to be consumed in workshop.

Drinks to be in lidded cups or containers.

Powdered glaze only mixed by tutor.

Glaze only used under supervision.

All glaze to be stored safely

4

Long term health risk, silicosis

Clay dust

5

2

10

Dry or unworkable clay should be placed in reclaim bins.

Floors kept clean and tables washed down at the end of every day.

Do not dry sweep.

Tools washed regularly.

Rolling pins and slip brushes washed at end of class.

Aprons washed regularly.

No food or drink to be consumed in the workshop.

6

Area

Private Studio / kiln room, level 0

Risk / Hazard

Description of Risk / Hazard

Severity

Likelihood

Risk Level

Actions to mitigate risk

Burn/shock

Kiln

4

3

12

 No public access

Keys limited to approved staff

Kiln fitted by qualified kiln engineer.

All packing and firing of kiln to be done by ceramics tutor or technician only.

Kiln to have safe area around it as stated by manufacturer.

Do not open a hot kiln unless below 100 degrees C.

Kiln fired in separate room away from students.

Use sign to clearly state when kiln is hot and firing.

Controller installed for automatic shut down at end of programme.

4

Irritation to skin, breathing difficulties

glazes

4

3

12

No public access

Explain risks

Avoid contact with skin when possible.

Use PPE were assessed as required

Avoid inhaling powdered glaze.

Powdered glaze only mixed by tutor.

Glaze only used under supervision.

All glaze to be stored safely

4

Long term health risk, silicosis

clay dust

5

2

10

No public access

Dry or unworkable clay should be placed in reclaim bins.

Floors kept clean and tables washed down at the end of every day.

Do not dry sweep.

Tools washed regularly.

Rolling pins and slip brushes washed at end of class.

Aprons washed regularly.

6

Area

Basement kiln room, level -1

Risk / Hazard

Description of Risk / Hazard

Severity

Likelihood

Risk Level

Actions to mitigate risk

Risk of falling

Stone steps

3

4

12

No public access

Care must be taken by staff whilst going down the stairs.

Stairwell must be well lit

3

Area

Entrance (Gallery) Level 1

Risk / Hazard

Description of Risk / Hazard

Severity

Likelihood

Risk Level

Actions to mitigate risk

Theft / Arson / Fire

Gallery door wedged open

5

5

20

Ensure at all times the gallery door is closed and locked unless a staff member is in the gallery

Security cameras and alarm systems throughout the building.

3

Slip / trip / bump

Raised entrance to gallery door

3

4

12

Sign saying watch your step. Children who cannot read must be told by teachers to watch their step

2

Area

Gallery- main space level 1

Risk / Hazard

Description of Risk / Hazard

Severity

Likelihood

Risk Level

Actions to mitigate risk

Damage to Artwork

From mishandling, poor mounting, or environmental exposure

3

2

6

Provide training on how to handle artwork safely, particularly fragile items.

Ensure all artworks are securely mounted or displayed to prevent them from falling or being damaged.

Maintain proper temperature and humidity levels to prevent damage to artwork (e.g., prevent warping or mold growth).

2

Theft or Vandalism

Particularly in public exhibition spaces

3

2

6

Security cameras and alarm systems throughout the building.

Limit access to artwork during exhibitions or installation, ensuring only authorized individuals can handle or touch the work.
Ensure artwork is insured for theft or damage during exhibitions

2

Injury During Installation/Deinstallation

Lifting heavy works, using tools at height, etc.

3

2

6

Require the use of appropriate PPE during installation (e.g., gloves, hard hats).

Use a team-based approach to install or deinstall large or heavy artwork to prevent accidents.

Provide clear guidelines and training on safe installation methods for all involved.

2

Area

Gallery- Kitchen

Risk / Hazard

Description of Risk / Hazard

Severity

Likelihood

Risk Level

Actions to mitigate risk

burn/scald

tea and coffee facilities, kettle/hot water

2

2

4

Care must be taken whilst pouring from the kettle

2

Area

Studios, Level 2

Risk / Hazard

Description of Risk / Hazard

Severity

Likelihood

Risk Level

Actions to mitigate risk

Fall/collide/concussion

Risk of colliding with support poles

3

2

6

Ensure poles are visible

People must take care to walk and not run in the studio area

2

Personal Safety Risks

If working alone late at night

3

2

6

Encourage working in pairs or groups, particularly when working late.
Ensure that everyone working in the studio has access to emergency contact numbers and knows the emergency protocols

2

Material Hoarding/Storage Overflow

Fire hazard, trip hazard, general disorganization

3

2

6

Implement a storage system with clear guidelines for labeling, quantity limits, and organisation.

Conduct periodic inspections to ensure that studio spaces are not cluttered or unsafe.

Set limits on the amount of materials stored and encourage the use of only necessary supplies.

2

Burns

Coming into too close contact with the heater when it is turned on could cause burns

3

2

6

A sign must be placed by the heater explaining the risk of having too close contact.

2

Burn/scald

kettle/microwave risk of scolding and fire hazard

3

3

9

Care must be taken when using electrical equipment. Follow all precautions set by manufacturers

2