Assessment Date: June 27, 2025
Location: Gym 1 – Commercial Gym Environment
1. Activity Description
Use of a leg press machine for lower body strength training, involving pushing a weighted platform with the legs.
Risk Assessment Matrix
• Likelihood: Rare (1), Unlikely (2), Possible (3), Likely (4), Almost Certain (5)
• Severity: Insignificant (1), Minor (2), Moderate (3), Major (4), Catastrophic (5)
• Risk Level: Low (1-4), Medium (5-9), High (10-15), Extreme (16-25)
3. Hazards, Risks, and Control Measures
Hazard: Improper Use
Potential Risk : Muscle strains, joint injuries (e.g., knee/hip) due to incorrect form or excessive weight.
Likelihood: Possible (3)
Severity: Moderate (3)
Risk Level: High (9)
Control Measures:
- Provide user instructions/signage on proper form.
- Offer introductory training sessions.
- Ensure staff monitor usage and correct form.
Residual Risk Level: Low (4)
Hazard: Equipment Failure
Potential Risk : Platform collapse or mechanical failure causing crush injuries or falls.
Likelihood: Rare (1)
Severity: Major (4)
Risk Level: Low (4)
Control Measures:
- Conduct regular maintenance checks (e.g., monthly).
- Inspect cables, pins, and weight stacks before use.
- Display last maintenance date on machine.
- Remove faulty equipment immediately.
Residual Risk Level: Low (2)
Hazard: Pinching / Crushing
Potential Risk : Fingers or limbs caught in moving parts (e.g., weight stack or platform).
Likelihood: Unlikely (2)
Severity: Moderate (3)
Risk Level: Medium (6)
Control Measures:
- Install guards around pulleys and moving parts.
- Place warning labels on pinch points.
- Advise users to avoid loose clothing and keep hands clear during operation.
Residual Risk Level: Low (3)
Hazard : Slipping / Falling
Potential Risk : Cardiovascular strain, dizziness, or fainting from excessive intensity, especially during heavy lifts or high-rep cable exercises.
Likelihood: Unlikely (2)
Severity: Minor (2)
Risk Level: Low (4)
Control Measures:
- Use non-slip seat and footplate materials.
- Encourage users to wear appropriate footwear.
- Provide towels and cleaning stations to manage sweat.
Residual Risk Level: Low (2)
Hazard : Overexertion
Potential Risk : Cardiovascular strain or fainting from excessive effort, especially for unfit users.
Likelihood: Possible (3)
Severity: Moderate (3)
Risk Level: Medium (9)
Control Measures:
- Ensure 10×10 ft floor space and tall ceilings for safe operation.
- Use rounded edges on attachments.
- Maintain clear walkways and store attachments properly.
Residual Risk Level: Low (4)
Hazard : Collision with Machine
Potential Risk : Bumping into the machine causing bruises or cuts.
Likelihood: Unlikely (2)
Severity: Minor (2)
Risk Level: Low (4)
Control Measures:
- Ensure adequate spacing between machines.
- Use rounded edges on machine design.
- Maintain clear walkways.
Residual Risk Level: Low (2)
4. Additional Control Measures
- Emergency Procedures: Ensure first aid kits and emergency contact numbers are accessible. Train staff in emergency response.
- User Education: Provide a gym induction program covering equipment safety. Use posters/videos to reinforce safe practices.
- Cleaning Protocols: Regular cleaning to prevent sweat-related slips and bacterial infections.
- Age Restrictions: Restrict use to users over 16 unless supervised by a trainer.
5. Monitoring and Review
- Monitoring: Instructors to conduct daily visual inspections and weekly detailed checks of equipment.
- Incident Reporting: Maintain a log for all accidents or near-misses to identify recurring issues.
- Review Date: Annual review or after any reported incident (next review: June 27, 2026).