Which sequence correctly represents the five steps of a standard risk assessment process?

Which sequence correctly represents the five steps of a standard risk assessment process?

• A. Identify hazards; evaluate risks; determine who may be affected; determine and implement controls; review and monitor.
• B. Identify hazards; determine who may be affected; evaluate risks (likelihood and severity); review and monitor; determine and implement controls.
• C. Identify hazards, determine who may be affected, evaluate risks (likelihood and severity), determine and implement controls, review and monitor.
• D. Determine and implement controls; identify hazards; evaluate risks; determine who may be affected; review and monitor.

Answer: (C)

Risk assessment is a stepwise process that builds understanding from what could cause harm to who is affected, then to how risky it is, followed by applying controls and finally checking that they work. The sequence starts with identifying hazards so you know exactly what could cause harm. Next, determine who may be harmed and how, because knowing the potential victims and exposure shapes the scope of the risk and the controls needed. Then evaluate the risks by considering both the likelihood and the severity of harm, which helps prioritize where to focus controls. After that, decide on and implement the appropriate controls to reduce the risk. Finally, review and monitor to ensure the controls are effective and to catch any changes that might require updates.

Risk assessment is a stepwise process that builds understanding from what could cause harm to who is affected, then to how risky it is, followed by applying controls and finally checking that they work. The sequence starts with identifying hazards so you know exactly what could cause harm. Next, determine who may be harmed and how, because knowing the potential victims and exposure shapes the scope of the risk and the controls needed. Then evaluate the risks by considering both the likelihood and the severity of harm, which helps prioritize where to focus controls. After that, decide on and implement the appropriate controls to reduce the risk. Finally, review and monitor to ensure the controls are effective and to catch any changes that might require updates.