The United Arab Emirates has established robust risk assessment guidelines for building and construction projects, emphasizing safety, compliance, and risk mitigation. This comprehensive framework ensures that all construction projects, from small residential modifications to large-scale developments, maintain the highest safety standards while meeting regulatory requirements.
Understanding the UAE Risk Assessment Model
Purpose and Scope
The UAE Risk Assessment Model serves multiple critical functions:
- Ensures compliance with HSE requirements for construction permits
- Provides systematic hazard identification methodologies
- Establishes clear risk control strategies
- Implements standardized safety protocols
- Facilitates electronic permit processing
Application Areas
This model specifically addresses:
- Small-scale construction projects
- Residential building modifications
- Maintenance operations
- Decorative and renovation works
- Soil testing procedures
- Dewatering operations
1. Risk Calculation Matrix (Probability x Severity)
| PROBABILITY | Insignificant (1) | Minor (2) | Moderate (3) | Major (4) | Catastrophic (5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rare (1) | 1 🟢 | 2 🟢 | 3 🟢 | 4 🟡 | 5 🟡 |
| Possible (2) | 2 🟢 | 4 🟡 | 6 🟡 | 8 🟠| 10 🟠|
| Likely (3) | 3 🟢 | 6 🟡 | 9 🟠| 12 🟠| 15 🔴 |
| Often (4) | 4 🟡 | 8 🟠| 12 🟠| 16 🔴 | 20 🔴 |
| Frequent/Almost Certain (5) | 5 🟡 | 10 🟠| 15 🔴 | 20 🔴 | 25 🔴 |
Download: Risk Management Matrix Template
2. Risk Level Classifications
| Risk Score | Risk Level | Required Action |
|---|---|---|
| 15 - 25 | Extreme Risk | Absolutely Unacceptably High - Activity or industry should not proceed in current form |
| 12-Aug | High Risk | Unacceptably High - Activity must be modified with remedial planning and subject to HSE assessment |
| 6-Apr | Moderate Risk | Acceptable but must be managed as "As Low As Reasonably Practicable" (ALARP) |
| 3-Jan | Low Risk | Acceptable without required further action - No action required unless escalation of risk is possible |
3. Hierarchy of Control Measures
| Control Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Elimination | Eliminate the hazard completely |
| Substitution | Replace with an alternative that is capable of performing the same task and is safer to use |
| Engineering Controls | Provide or construct a physical barrier or guard or technical measures |
Note: Controls identified may be a mixture of the hierarchy in order to provide minimum operator exposure.
Document Overview
The documents below are official risk assessment model from Abu Dhabi City Municipality that outlines risk evaluations for common construction activities. The document provides a systematic approach to identifying and controlling hazards in construction projects.
Download Official documents:
- Risk Assessment Model for Building and Construction Projects [PDF]
- Classification List for HSE requirements of Building and Construction Permit [PDF]
Key Components Covered
1. Risk Rating System
- Uses a probability (P) x severity (S) calculation
- Generates risk ratings to prioritize hazards
- Higher numbers indicate greater risk levels
2. Main Construction Activities Assessed
- Carpentry works
- Painting and polishing
- Grinding/cutting operations
- Welding and flame cutting
- Scaffolding and platform work
- Ladder usage
- Electrical works
- Chemical handling
- Plumbing and sanitary works
- Plastering
- Concrete/cement work
- Manual handling
- General waste management
See also: UAE Golden Visa
3. Risk Categories Addressed
- Physical injuries
- Chemical exposure
- Falls from height
- Electric hazards
- Fire risks
- Environmental pollution
- Health hazards
- Equipment-related risks
4. Standard Control Measures
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements
- Training and toolbox talks
- Equipment maintenance protocols
- Safety procedures and permits
- Environmental protection measures
- Waste management guidelines
This comprehensive framework serves as the gold standard for construction companies operating within Abu Dhabi's jurisdiction, offering detailed protocols for risk assessment and mitigation strategies. Developed by Abu Dhabi Municipality, these guidelines ensure projects maintain the highest safety standards while meeting local regulatory requirements. For construction businesses, compliance with these standards is not just about safety—it's an integral part of maintaining operational licenses and securing project approvals.
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