Laboratory risk assessment process flowchart

What the laboratory risk assessment process is

The process makes missing scope or specialist input an early escalation rather than an assumption. Once the activity is understood, the team identifies hazards and current controls, then decides whether further controls or approval need to be defined.

Edit the roles, risk language, evidence sources and approval route for your local system. The template provides an adaptable discussion structure and does not prescribe a universal risk rating or safety threshold.

What this flowchart covers

In this template

• Scope confirmation and specialist-input escalation.
• Hazard and existing-control identification.
• Further-control planning, rationale review and rework for an unaccepted assessment.

When to use this template

• A laboratory activity, change or issue needs a documented risk discussion.
• Specialist input or missing scope can delay a safe decision.
• You need to assign owners for proposed controls and review actions.

How it works

1. Define assessment scope

   Specify the activity, people, equipment and information a local assessment must consider.

2. Name evidence sources

   Add the records, observations and specialist input used to identify hazards and current controls.

3. Assign control owners

   Make each proposed control, approval and review decision traceable to a responsible role.

Frequently asked questions

What is included in a laboratory risk assessment process?

It maps scope, hazard and control identification, decisions on further actions, responsible review and an escalation loop.

Does the chart set a risk score?

No. Use the risk method, rating approach and decision criteria approved for your own laboratory.

What if the assessment is not accepted?

It returns for revised evidence, additional controls or escalation before the assessment is closed.