What is the purpose of the risk assessment?

• A. To assign blame for past incidents.
• B. To document staff performance.
• C. To identify hazards, assess the risk, and plan actions to reduce harm.
• D. To train staff in CPR.

Answer: (C)

The purpose of risk assessment is to identify hazards, judge how likely and how severe the potential harm could be, and plan actions to reduce that harm. In a dental practice this means looking at everything that could pose a risk to patients or staff—sharps, chemicals, radiation, infection control, slips and trips, manual handling—and deciding how to control those risks. After identifying hazards, you assess the level of risk and then implement measures to bring it down to an acceptable level, such as removing the hazard, substituting safer materials, isolating it, using engineering controls, establishing safe procedures, providing training, and using appropriate PPE. This process is ongoing and helps the practice stay compliant and keep everyone safe. It isn’t about blaming past incidents, documenting staff performance, or training for CPR.