How often should risk assessments be reviewed?

• A. Annually
• B. Monthly
• C. Quarterly
• D. Every two years

Answer: (A)

Regular review of risk assessments keeps the safety controls aligned with how the practice actually operates, including any changes to drugs, procedures, equipment, or staff. The standard minimum is to review them at least once a year. This annual check helps capture new hazards, update control measures, and reflect lessons from incidents or near-misses. You should also trigger a review sooner if there are significant changes—new medications or handling procedures, new equipment, a change in workflow, or after an incident. Monthly or quarterly reviews aren’t needed as a baseline, unless the area is unusually high-risk or undergoes rapid, ongoing changes; waiting two years risks outdated controls and noncompliance. So the best baseline practice is an annual review, with immediate review when changes occur.