Lesson 5 – Dynamic Risk Assessment

Lesson overview

A dynamic risk assessment is a continuing assessment made as circumstances change. It complements—rather than replaces—the company’s formal risk assessment.

Lesson content

5.1 The PAUSE approach

Employees can use the following process:

P – Pause: Stop before entering or continuing.
A – Assess: Identify what has changed or appears unsafe.
U – Understand: Consider who may be harmed and how.
S – Select: Choose an appropriate control or safer alternative.
E – Exit or escalate: Leave and contact a manager if the risk remains unacceptable.

5.2 Warning signs

Warning signs may include:

The attendee does not match the booking details.
Unexpected people are present.
A person appears intoxicated or under the influence of drugs.
Shouting, threats or arguments can be heard.
Someone attempts to lock or block a door.
The employee is encouraged to enter an isolated area.
A weapon or suspected weapon is visible.
Signs of forced entry or criminal activity are present.
Dangerous animals are not controlled.
Serious structural, electrical, fire or environmental hazards exist.
The employee experiences persistent unwanted or inappropriate behaviour.

5.3 Maintaining an exit route

Employees should:

Allow the customer to enter rooms first where appropriate.
Remain aware of exits.
Avoid entering confined spaces unnecessarily.
Avoid allowing anyone to stand between them and the exit.
Keep a suitable distance from aggressive individuals.
Leave doors unlocked where safe and permitted.
Never surrender a telephone or vehicle keys on request unless necessary to prevent immediate harm.

5.4 Authority to stop

Employees are authorised to:

Refuse entry to an unsafe property.
End an appointment.
Leave without completing the inspection or viewing.
Move the meeting to a safer location.
Request assistance.
Rearrange the appointment with additional controls.

Employees should not enter a property where serious hazards or suspected criminal activity create an unacceptable risk.