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Hazard |
Existing controls |
Staff, Visitors, Volunteers or Animals |
Currently |
Additional controls needed to control the risk /comments |
What is the Residual risk |
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severity |
probability |
risk |
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ANIMAL HANDLING AND BITING RISKS
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Proper restraint – using both belly strap and neck noose on the correct height and never leaving a dog on a table.
Using towels on slippery surfaces to help with the dogs grip.
behaviour assessment – if necessary or being aware of the dogs micro signals such as lip licking, giving paw and getting to know each dog in tern to be aware of sensitive areas. Always communicating with the owner on any known injuries or problem areas.
Muzzles only when necessary for known biting dogs, assess for pain and take regular breaks with sensitive dogs.
Asking owners to stay in cases of anxiety and aggression out of fear. |
Staff & Dog |
4 |
2 |
8 |
Risk Low with current safety measures in place Keep under review with a case by case basis.
It should never be assumed that because the dog was fine last time it will be again, every dog and every groom is different and requires their own attention to detail. Behaviour included. |
Dog unpredictability and developing situations, trigger stacking and if the dog has been exposed to something upsetting before a groom may possess more risk of aggressive behaviours that could not be predicted by the owner or groomer. |
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INJURIES DUE TO EQUIPTMENT
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Regular blade checks in grooms, cooling spray can be used, using the clippers and scissors correctly in accordance with training and equipment guidance.
Have a de-matting policy including making owners aware of increased risk of cuts and irritation dure to close skin clipping.
Gently pull skin straight there possible to reduce risk of clipper injury in problem areas. Use correct blades and comb attachments.
Ensure the dog is knot free and completely dry before clipping.
Use appropriate grooming restraints such as belly strap and neck noose and hold the dog during carful close contact moments. Regular maintenance checks of all equipment such as PAT testing and visual checks, reporting and repairing any issues before continued use. |
Staff & dog |
3 |
2 |
6 |
Low risk – keep under review with regular checks on all equipment used. Annual reviews should take place and daily visual checks.
Clippers should be checked frequently while in use for building heat to reduce the risk of clipper burn or cuts. Assessment of each dog before and during each groom to allow for breaks and minimal risk with equipment usage. Clear communication with owners is important, particularly where there is increased risk. Keeping a written record of these discussions ensures transparency and accountability. Emergency procedures and access to a first aid kit should be in place so any incidents can be managed quickly and effectively.
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Dog unpredictability
Equipment malfunction and damages. A low level of risk remains due to the use of sharp tools and working closely with live animals that may move unexpectedly. Higher-risk situations, such as delicate areas or matted coats, may still carry an increased risk of minor injury. Equipment-related risks are minimal with proper maintenance, but faults can still occur. risk can be managed through safe working practices and professional judgement.
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ELECTRICAL HAZARDS
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PAT testing, keeping electrics away from water and maintaining equipment, checking operating correctly and cables are free from damage before use.
Never use electricals near the wet area unless designed for the use with water nearby.
Keep all cables secured well and move equipment according to cable location to avoid trips. Be aware of any cables while working. |
Visitors, staff and dogs |
3 |
1 |
3 |
Risk reduced as far as reasonably practicable Equipment should be switched off and unplugged when not in use. Work areas can be arranged to keep electrical zones and wet zones clearly separate. Staff awareness and positioning during grooming should be maintained to avoid accidental contact with water. Routine checks can be supported with a simple log to ensure faults are recorded and followed up promptly. Damaged equipment should be removed from use immediately.
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A low level of risk remains due to the presence of electrical equipment in a working environment where water is also used. Trip hazards from cables may still occur if equipment is moved during grooming. Overall, the risk is low when equipment is well maintained and used correctly.
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HEAT & DRYING RISKS
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Always monitor the temperature of water, dryers and clippers and any equipment that involves heat. never leaving dogs unattended.
Cancel grooms with high weather temperatures above 28 degrees. Use cold air in warmer weathers and give the dog plenty of breaks including a chance to drink water. Regular heat checks on clippers while in use to avoid using hot equipment. |
Staff and dogs |
2 |
1 |
2 |
Risk reduced as far as reasonably practicable Drying times should be adjusted to suit the individual dog, avoiding prolonged exposure to heat. Airflow should be prioritised over high temperature where possible. Dogs showing signs of stress or overheating should be removed from the drying process immediately and allowed to cool down in a well-ventilated area. The grooming environment should be kept cool with good ventilation, especially during warmer weather.
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A low level of risk remains due to the use of heated equipment during grooming. Some dogs may be more sensitive to heat, increasing the risk slightly despite control measures. Overall, the risk is low when temperature is carefully managed and dogs are monitored closely.
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CHEMICAL EXPOSURE
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Always use the correct dilution and in accordance with manufactory instructions on shampoos and chemicals used in the grooming process. Perform a patch test is necessary. Wash soap away from dogs eyes using directional water and rinse any contact area thoroughly.
Keep all other chemicals for cleaning in a locked cupboard in accordance with COSHH
Regular handwashing
All cleaning to take place once the dog has left the premises or the dog will be in a secure pen while cleaning of equipment. |
Staff & dogs |
1 |
1 |
1 |
Risk reduced as far as reasonably practicable Products should be selected based on the individual dog’s coat type, skin condition, and any known sensitivities. Owner consultation prior to grooming can help identify any previous reactions. Protective measures, such as using appropriate eye care techniques and careful application, can further reduce accidental exposure. Clear labelling and separation of grooming and cleaning chemicals should be maintained to avoid misuse. Staff should be familiar with product instructions and safe handling procedures.
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A low level of risk remains due to the use of chemical products during grooming. Some dogs may have unknown sensitivities, which could result in mild reactions despite precautions. Overall, the risk is low when products are used correctly and dogs are monitored for any signs of irritation.
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INFECTION CONTROL & ZOONOTIC DISEASE
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Cleaning protocols for daily use including a deep clean at the end of the day, disinfecting tools. Cleaning after each dog, removing fur, sweeping, wiping down surfaces with pet friendly spray.
Discontinue groom immediately, Isolating infected dogs and owners called for collection asap.
A deep clean including parasitic control after any case of contamination before any more grooming is carried out.
Use Safe4 or G9 for disenfectants and only use diluted bleach in non grooming areas, use the UV cabinet for steralising equiptment or Milton tablets diluted in water where this Is not possible. |
Staff, visitors and dogs |
2 |
1 |
2 |
Risk reduced as far as reasonably practicable. Use of appropriate PPE, such as gloves or aprons, can further reduce the risk of cross-contamination during grooming and cleaning. Dogs should be visually checked on arrival for signs of parasites or infection so risks can be identified early. Laundry (towels, bedding) should be washed at a high temperature between uses to prevent spread of infection. Hand hygiene should be maintained between handling different dogs to reduce transmission risk.
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A low level of risk remains due to working with multiple dogs in the same environment. Some infections or parasites may not be immediately visible, increasing the risk slightly. Overall, the risk is low when strict hygiene and infection control procedures are followed.
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GROOMER HEALTH
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Correct use of PPE Use adjustable tables, allow the dog to move into position rather then lifting. Where lifting is required, bending of the legs and keeping ones back straight to use the proper lifting technique,
Factor in breaks depending on groomers physical ability
Keep walkways clear and free from trailing wires , clean up and wet floor areas asap, use wet floor signs.
Lone working shouldn’t be done where possible but in the case of this not being practical, phones should be charged and nearby, security footage is streamed to one other groomer or the owner of the salon, diary sharing and other businesses nearby made aware of the loan worker at the time. |
staff |
1 |
1 |
1 |
Risk reduced as far as reasonably practicable. Work should remain varied where possible to reduce the risk of repetitive strain with regular breaks to rest hands and joints, this can be doubled up as equipment breaks to check clipper temperature and clear the table from clutter.
All manual handling techniques should be followed and lifts should be used for heavier dogs.
Anti fatigue mats to be used to reduce strain from standing for long periods and the workspace should be kept clear and free from clutter spills and working at heights should not be done.
Check in systems should be in place and used. |
A low level risk remains due to the physical nature of grooming work carried out.
Strain or fatigue may still occur over time, particularly during busy periods.
Risks associated with slips trips and falls and lone working are reduced but not completely eliminated.
Safe working practices should be followed and the risk will remain low. |
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ESCAPE & SECURITY
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Have a double-door system and ensure each door is closed after entering or exiting. Always secure a dog on leads, all dogs require constant supervision.
Use the correct restraint for baths and grooming tables. |
Visitors, staff and dogs |
2 |
1 |
2 |
Risk reduced as far as reasonably practicable.
Entry and exit points should be controlled at all times with doors kept closed and safe handover procedures in place.
Dogs should be secured before leads are removed
Restraints should be checked before use to ensure they are correctly fitted for each dog and free from damage or week points. |
Low level of risk remains due to dogs being unpredictable at times.
There is still; a small risk of escape or slipping restraints despite precautions so this should be kept in review on a case by case basis.
The risk is low when correct handling protocol is followed. |
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EMERGANCY SITUATIONS
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Pet first aid known and kept up to date. Emergency first aid equipment to be kept un to date in the salon. Always take emergency contacts including vet information and gain consent from owners to contact the vets on their behalf should the dog be in need of emergency treatment for any reason.
Patch test skin if allergic reasons are likely.
Keep stress minimal to reduce risks of seizures, groom in reasonable temperatures, check vaccinations are up to date and medication has been given before grooming continues. |
Dogs, visitors and staff |
3 |
1 |
3 |
Risk reduced as far as reasonably practicable.
A full consultation should be carried out before grooming to identify any known health issues before grooming.
Dogs should be monitored closely during the groom and abnormal behaviours actioned immediately. All grooming should discontinue immediately if concerns arise.
Emergency contact details are gained at the first appointment and updated there after. |
The risk level remains low due to the lickely hood of an incident happening being low unless the dog or visitor has an underlying health condition and the likelihood will rise considerably however by completing all relevant forms and health checks the risk cannot be reduced further. |
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DOG BATHING
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Regular maintenance of the shower equipment including PAT testing and making visual observations of any changes or issues arising.
Ask the owner for known allergies on arrival and look for signs while grooming. Use the correct dilution and rinse all chemicals thoroughly.
Monitor dog behaviour and for any signs of possible aggression arising with micro signals and changes in behaviour. Ask the owner for triggers of behavioural issues if any.
Restraints used for the bath such as a neck noose and lead making sure the dog cannot exit the bath.
Anti slip mats are used, water is contained in the bath and all spills are cleaned immediately. |
Staff and dogs |
3 |
2 |
6 |
Risk is low, keep under review on a case by case basis. Water temperature should be checked continuously during use to prevent sudden change causing harm to the dog or groomer.
Puppy grooms or introductory grooms are done to help the dog get used to the grooming process and reduce stress that may cause reactive behaviours.
Non slip mats can be used to help reduce the risk of slipping and to air in dog handling when entering and exiting the bath.
Clear separation of electrical equipment where possible and damage reported and repaired before continued use. |
The risk remains low due to the use of water, electrical equiptment and handling of unpredictable animals.
Dogs may still react unpredictably in the bath and slips may still happen increasing the risk of minor injury.
Overall the risk remains low. |
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LONE WORKING
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Lone working should be avoided where possible but where this is not possible phones should be kept in your pocket and charged, chargers should be accessible and used for low batteries.
Security footage streaming on multiple peoples devices if possible.
Shared diaries so someone else always knows your schedule and when your alone.
Nearby businesses to be made aware of lone working hours for check ins if possible.
Tailor client bookings for smaller known and less unpredictable dogs only if possible.
Have an buddy system where a lone worker will message 1 other person on arrival and leaving so they can action a no response. |
Groomer and dog |
3 |
4 |
12 |
Low risk keep under review
A check in system could be used with someone aware of the lone working and working hours with expected finish times.
Manual handling should be risk assessed for each dog to avoid lifting with the use of aids to help.
Security measures such as locked doors, controlled access and where possible CCTV and alarm systems can reduce the risk of intruders and aid in help for the lone worker if needed. |
A low level of risk remains due to lone working without access to immediate assistance.
Injuries and accidents may still happen and will take longer for response however if lone working policies are followed then the risk remains low. |
The Wild Fig & Fern
Doing Things A little Differently..,
