What Is a Gap and Risk Review, and Do You Actually Need One?

If you’re unsure whether your business is fully compliant, you’re not alone. Most SMEs wait until there’s a problem before reviewing their health and safety systems. But that’s not how compliance works best.

At Safe and Well Together, we offer a structured Gap and Risk Review to help you identify what’s working, what’s missing and how to get compliant quickly without unnecessary cost or stress.

What is a Gap and Risk Review?

A Gap and Risk Review is a structured health and safety audit designed to:

• Identify gaps in your current systems and documents
• Assess how well your team is managing health and safety day-to-day
• Highlight risks that may lead to non-compliance or incidents
• Provide a tailored action plan to help you close those gaps fast

Think of it as a compliance health check. It shows you where you stand and what to do next.

What Does It Include?

Your review includes:

• A scoping call to understand your business
• A documentation audit (policies, training, assessments)
• A site visit and workplace risk review
• Interviews or conversations with key people
• A detailed report and a clear, prioritised action plan tailored to your business
• Interviews or conversations with key people
• Cultural insights and practical observations
• A follow-up check-in after a month to keep momentum going

The result is not just a report. It’s a roadmap.

When Should You Get One?

We recommend a Gap and Risk Review if:

• You’ve never had a professional health and safety audit
• Your business has grown or changed recently
• You’re unsure what documentation is required
• You’ve had an incident or improvement notice
• You want peace of mind before an inspection or client audit

If any of these apply to you, it’s worth acting now rather than waiting until you’re under pressure..

What Happens After the Review?

After the review, we’ll talk you through:

• Your key legal duties
• The biggest risks in your business right now
• What to fix first and how to do it
• What support you might need moving forward

Some clients use our Compliance Kit to organise their documentation. Others add coaching or training for staff. You’ll get clear advice either way.

Book a Free Gap and Risk Call

Not sure if a Gap and Risk Review is the right next step? Let’s talk. We’ll help you work out what level of support you need and whether your business is ready for an inspection – or to respond to an accident.

Book your free 30-minute consultation today.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does the review take?
Most reviews are completed within a week, with your action plan delivered the following week. For larger or multiple sites, we may recommend a phased approach.

2. Will it help me meet legal requirements?
Yes. The review is aligned with UK HSE expectations and will help you identify any areas of non-compliance before they become a problem.

3. Do you offer support after the review?
Absolutely. Many clients choose to add leadership coaching, training or a Compliance Kit to help implement the plan.

4. Can I book this if I already have a safety resource?
Yes. We often work alongside existing consultants or internal teams to provide a second opinion or strategic overview.

5. Is it suitable for small businesses?
Yes. In fact, our Gap and Risk Review is designed specifically for SMEs who may not have a dedicated health and safety lead.