A point of work risk assessment (POWRA, sometimes called a last minute or dynamic risk assessment) is a short check done by the people about to start a job, at the place where they will do it. It catches what the planned risk assessment could not see: today’s weather, other trades nearby, a changed layout, equipment that is not what was expected.
What it is, and what it is not
A POWRA does not replace a proper risk assessment or RAMS. The planned assessment covers the task in general; the POWRA confirms that the planned controls fit the conditions on the day, and records any extra controls.
The term is not in legislation. It is a practical way of meeting the duty to keep risk assessments valid and review them when circumstances change, under regulation 3 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.
When to do one
- At the start of a task or shift, before work begins.
- When the work moves to a new location or working environment.
- When conditions change: weather, lighting, ground conditions, other trades, the public.
- When the planned method cannot be followed, or the equipment is not what was planned.
- After a near miss or a stop on the job.
What it should cover
- The task, location, date and who is doing it.
- Whether the risk assessment or RAMS for the task is available and understood.
- The hazards present today, ticked from a short list and added to where needed.
- The controls for each hazard, including PPE.
- Permits, isolations and checks needed before starting.
- Emergency arrangements: first aid, rescue and how to raise the alarm.
- A clear decision: safe to proceed, proceed with extra controls, or stop and escalate.
- The names of everyone doing the job, agreeing to it.
Stop if it does not fit
The most valuable part of a POWRA is permission to stop. Make it clear that anyone can stop the job if conditions do not match the plan, and that stopping to get the RAMS updated or a supervisor’s decision is expected, not a failure.
Useful, not a tick-box
- Keep it to one page or one phone screen.
- Let people pick hazards from a list, so it takes minutes.
- Have a supervisor look through completed POWRAs and spot repeated issues.
- Feed what you learn back into the task risk assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Is a POWRA the same as a dynamic risk assessment?
Broadly, yes. Dynamic risk assessment is often used for situations that change continuously; a POWRA is usually a recorded check at the start of a task. Both confirm that the planned controls fit the real conditions.
Who completes a POWRA?
The person or team doing the work, led by the supervisor or team leader. Everyone doing the task should take part.
Do POWRAs need to be kept?
Keeping them shows the check happened and helps you spot trends. Many businesses keep them with the job records for the life of the contract.
This guide is general information for UK businesses, not legal advice. Check the current regulations and HSE guidance at hse.gov.uk, and take professional advice for your situation.