Assessment Date: June 27, 2025
Location: Gym 1 , Gym 2 – Commercial Gym Environment
1. Activity Description
Performing deadlifts using an Olympic barbell (7ft, 20kg/45lb) and weight plates, a compound strength exercise targeting the posterior chain (hamstrings, glutes, lower back) and core. The activity involves lifting the barbell from the floor to hip level, typically on a lifting platform, rubberized flooring, or stable surface, with collars to secure plates.
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 Form
Potential Risk : Muscle strains (e.g., lower back, hamstrings) or severe injuries (e.g., herniated disc, spinal injury) due to incorrect lifting technique, rounded back, or improper hip/knee positioning.
Likelihood: Possible (3)
Severity: Major (4)
Risk Level: High (12)
Control Measures:
- Provide instructional signage/videos on proper deadlift form (e.g., neutral spine, hip hinge).
- Offer coaching or gym inductions for beginners.
- Ensure staff monitor and correct technique in gyms.
- Encourage starting with light weights to practice form.
Residual Risk Level: Medium (6)
Hazard: Equipment Failure
Potential Risk : Barbell bending, plates slipping, or collars failing, causing the bar to drop or plates to fall, leading to crush injuries or falls.
Likelihood: Rare (1)
Severity: Major (4)
Risk Level: Low (4)
Control Measures:
- Use high-quality Olympic barbells rated for heavy loads (e.g., 700-1000lb capacity).
- Inspect barbell, plates, and collars for damage before use.
- Always secure plates with collars.
- Remove damaged equipment immediately.
Residual Risk Level: Low (2)
Hazard: Slipping / Tripping
Potential Risk : Slipping on wet or uneven surfaces or tripping over plates/bar, causing falls or sprains, especially during setup or re-racking.
Likelihood: Unlikely (2)
Severity: Moderate (3)
Risk Level: Medium (6)
Control Measures:
- Perform deadlifts on non-slip lifting platforms or rubberized flooring.
- Ensure area is free of hazards (e.g., water, loose plates).
- Encourage closed-toe athletic footwear.
- Provide clear walkways and organized plate storage.
Residual Risk Level: Low (3)
Hazard : Overexertion
Potential Risk : Cardiovascular strain, dizziness, or fainting from heavy lifting, especially for unfit users or during maximal lifts.
Likelihood: Possible (3)
Severity: Moderate (3)
Risk Level: Medium (9)
Control Measures:
- Display health warnings (e.g., consult a doctor for medical conditions).
- Encourage gradual weight progression and adequate rest between sets.
- Ensure staff (in gyms) are trained in first aid and CPR.
- Advise use of spotters for heavy lifts.
Residual Risk Level: Low (4)
Hazard : Collision with Equipment
Potential Risk : Bumping into barbell, plates, or racks during setup or lifting, causing bruises, cuts, or head injuries.
Likelihood: Possible (2)
Severity: Moderate (2)
Risk Level: Medium (4)
Control Measures:
- Ensure adequate space (min. 8ft x 4ft) around lifting area.
- Use racks with rounded edges and store plates securely.
- Maintain clear walkways and designate lifting zones.
Residual Risk Level: Low (2)
Hazard : Dropping Barbell
Potential Risk : Barbell slipping from hands or dropping during lift, causing foot crush injuries, floor damage, or noise-related disturbances.
Likelihood: Unlikely (2)
Severity: Moderate (3)
Risk Level: Medium (6)
Control Measures:
- Use lifting platforms or crash pads to absorb impact.
- Encourage use of chalk or lifting straps for grip.
- Advise controlled lowering of bar rather than dropping.
- Ensure bar knurling is intact for better grip.
Residual Risk Level: Low (3)
Hazard : Plate Handling
Potential Risk : Pinching fingers or dropping plates during loading/unloading, causing hand/foot injuries.
Likelihood: Possible (3)
Severity: Minor (2)
Risk Level: Medium (6)
Control Measures:
- Provide training on safe plate handling.
- Use plates with grip holes or rubber coating for easier handling.
- Store plates on low racks to reduce lifting height.
- Advise two-person loading for heavy plates (e.g., 45lb/20kg).
Residual Risk Level: Low (3)
Hazard :Environmental Factors
Potential Risk : Injuries due to poor lighting (misjudging bar position) or crowded spaces (collisions with others).
Likelihood: Unlikely (2)
Severity: Moderate (3)
Risk Level: Medium (6)
Control Measures:
- Ensure well-lit lifting areas (min. 300 lux).
- Limit number of users in lifting zone during busy times.
- Use mirrors to aid form checking without obstructing space.
Residual Risk Level: Low (3)
4. Additional Control Measures
- Emergency Procedures: Ensure first aid kits and emergency contact numbers are accessible. Train gym staff or home users in basic emergency response.
- User Education: Provide gym inductions or online tutorials covering safe deadlift techniques, equipment setup, and use of collars. Use posters/videos to reinforce proper form (e.g., bracing core, neutral spine).
- Cleaning Protocols: Regular cleaning of barbell knurling and platforms to prevent sweat-related slips and bacterial infections.
- Age Restrictions: Restrict use to users over 16 unless supervised by a trainer or coach.
- Protective Equipment: Recommend optional use of lifting belts for heavy loads and wrist wraps for grip support, with guidance on proper use.
5. Monitoring and Review
- Monitoring: Gym staff or home users to conduct daily visual inspections of barbell, plates, collars, and platform for damage or wear.
- 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).