Abstract The paper focuses on occupational hazards and the determination of risk levels. Indoor climate, lighting, noise, chemicals and dust are examined. A simple/flexible risk assessment method is provided. The results of measurements of occupational hazards in six industries (mechanical, printing, wood, plastic, clothing and water purification plants) in Estonia are presented. The overall purpose of the paper is to draw the attention to the importance of measurements of occupational hazards in industry and to act as a reminder of number of issues of practical relevance to effective workplace risk assessment from which employees, employers, occupational hygienists and physicians as well as authorities can benefit.