The single occupational risk assessment document

When you run a business in France, there’s one piece of paperwork you cannot ignore: The Single Occupational Risk Assessment Document, better known as the DUERP (Document Unique d’Évaluation des Risques Professionnels). Sounds complicated, right? But here’s the thing—it’s actually one of the most important safety tools your company can have. Let’s break it down in plain, friendly language so you know exactly what it is, why it matters, and how to handle it without tearing your hair out.

The Short Answer

The DUERP (Single Risk Assessment Document) is mandatory for all employers in France, regardless of company size. It’s an official record of workplace risks and the measures you’ve put in place to reduce them. Employers must create it, update it at least once a year, and make it available to employees, unions, and labor inspectors.

In this article, we’ll cover what the DUERP really means, who needs to make one, the legal obligations behind it, how to create and update it (yes, even online DUERP tools exist), and why it’s more than just paperwork. We’ll also look at easy ways to comply—without spending weeks drafting endless documents.

What Exactly Is the DUERP?

Think of the DUERP as a “risk map” for your business. Every workplace has risks—whether it’s slippery floors, chemical exposure, stress, or even repetitive strain injuries from sitting at a desk all day. The DUERP is where you write all these risks down and explain how you’re preventing accidents or health problems.

The goal? Protect employees before something happens. It’s not just about avoiding fines; it’s about making sure everyone goes home safe and healthy.

Is the DUERP Really Mandatory?

Yes, 100%. The DUERP obligation applies to every single company in France, from a one-person business to a multinational. No exceptions.

Here’s what the law requires:

1. Write it down: risks must be formally assessed and documented.
2. Keep it updated: at least once a year, or whenever work conditions change (new machines, new roles, etc.).
3. Share it: employees, unions, and health & safety reps must be able to consult the DUERP.
4. Store it: the document must be archived for 40 years—yes, forty.

How Do You Create a DUERP?

This is where many business owners panic. “Do I need a lawyer? An inspector? A 500-page report?” Don’t worry—it’s much simpler.

Here’s what goes into a DUERP model:

1. Company information (name, size, activities).
2. Work unit descriptions (teams, departments, or job types).
3. List of risks identified (physical, chemical, biological, psychosocial).
4. Evaluation of severity and probability of each risk.
5. Prevention measures in place or planned.

Example Table: DUERP Structure

This isn’t rocket science—it’s basically a risk checklist with solutions.

Can You Make a DUERP Online?

Absolutely. That’s where online DUERP platforms come in. These tools make it easier to fill in, update, and store your Single Risk Assessment Document digitally.

Benefits of a DUERP Online Platform

1. Ready-made templates for different industries.
2. Automatic updates when laws change.
3. Easier collaboration (multiple people can work on it).
4. Cloud storage for long-term archiving.

Quick Tip: If you’re in construction, you can use Mon Document Unique Prem’s from OPPBTP. For small businesses in other sectors, the OIRA tool from INRS is a great starting point.

Who Needs to Consult the DUERP?

The DUERP isn’t a document you write and lock away in a drawer. It’s meant to be shared and used.

1. Employees: have the right to check what risks have been identified.
2. Labor inspectors: can request it at any time.
3. Occupational health services: use it to advise companies on prevention strategies.
4. Unions or staff reps: rely on it to check compliance and protect workers’ rights.

Info Box: Failing to provide access to the DUERP can lead to fines and legal issues for the employer.

What Risks Must Be Included?

Here’s the tricky part: risks aren’t just accidents like slipping or falling. They also include long-term health risks and mental well-being.

Categories of Risks in a Single Risk Assessment Document

1. Physical: noise, vibrations, heat, cold.
2. Chemical: dust, fumes, cleaning products.
3. Biological: bacteria, viruses.
4. Ergonomic: poor posture, repetitive strain.
5. Psychosocial: stress, harassment, burnout.

Fact Box: Since 2022, psychosocial risks (PSR) must be explicitly considered in the DUERP.

Common Mistakes Companies Make

Many businesses fail inspections not because they don’t have a DUERP, but because it’s incomplete or outdated. Here are the most frequent errors:

1. Only listing obvious risks (like fire) but ignoring psychosocial risks.
2. Copy-pasting a generic DUERP model without adapting it to their company.
3. Not updating the DUERP after a workplace change (new machine, new worksite).
4. Failing to involve employees in the assessment.

Danger Box: A non-compliant DUERP can result in fines of up to €3,750 per infraction.

Why the DUERP Matters Beyond Compliance

Yes, the DUERP is an obligation. But here’s the other side: it actually helps businesses.

1. Fewer accidents → less downtime and fewer costs.
2. Better reputation → employees see the company cares.
3. Legal protection → in case of an accident, the DUERP proves you took prevention seriously.
4. Healthier teams → less stress, fewer sick days.

It’s not just bureaucracy—it’s smart management.

Conclusion

So, what is the DUERP? It’s your Single Risk Assessment Document—a mandatory, yearly-updated record of workplace risks and safety measures in France. It may feel like a burden, but online DUERP platforms and ready-made DUERP models make the process much simpler. Done right, it not only keeps you compliant but also creates a safer, healthier, and more productive workplace.

Consult the OIRA tool for online risk assessment and DUERP editing for small businesses on the INRS website, developed by Health Insurance - Professional Risks (INRS, Carsat/Cramif/CGSS) in partnership with professional organizations.

FAQ

What happens if I don’t create a DUERP?

You risk fines, legal liability, and penalties from labor inspectors. More importantly, you leave your employees unprotected.

Does the DUERP apply to self-employed people?

No, freelancers working alone aren’t required to make a DUERP. The obligation starts as soon as you have employees.

How often should I update the DUERP?

At least once a year, and any time there’s a significant change in working conditions.

Can I use a free DUERP model?

Yes, many organizations (INRS, OPPBTP) provide free templates you can adapt to your company.

Is an online DUERP valid?

Yes, digital DUERP platforms are valid as long as they meet the legal requirements for accessibility, updates, and archiving.

Read More : Quality Approach and Risk Management: How to Create Your DUERP?