Risk Assessment Methods

This section of the toolbox enables the user to select certain criteria to filter the risk assessment methods. These criteria are based on the steps of the risk assessment process according to ISO 31000:2018 as well as the method properties. The analysis phase is further categorized into the analysis of causes, consequences, likelihood, and severity of the consequences. Each method property is further categorized into three levels: low, medium and high.


ISO 31000


Risk Identification

This step demands the organization to identify sources of risk, areas of impacts, their causes and potential consequences. The aim of this step is to generate a comprehensive list of risks that might negatively impact the organization, harm the people and/or the environment. This step should be continuously monitored based on any changes in the environment.

Risk Analysis

This step aims in analyzing the identified risks based on the associated causes and consequences along with their likelihood and severity respectively. Risk analysis provides an input to risk evaluation and to decisions on whether risks need to be treated, and on the most appropriate risk treatment strategies and measures.

Risk Evaluation

This step aims at the prioritization of the identified risks that have been analyzed in the analysis phase. This is in order to assist in making decisions about the risks that need urgent treatment. Risk evaluation involves comparing the level of risk determined during the analysis process with an established risk criteria.  


Method Properties


Complexity

The application complexity and skills the method demands for the successful usage and application. High complex methods could deliver accurate outcomes and less subjectiveness compared to the less complex methods.

Effort

The resources and time effort required to gather all important data for the successful application of the corresponding method. Several methods require more input, which increases the required effort.

 

Method Type

Qualitative methods are more subjective but simpler than quantitative methods. Quantitative methods are more resource intensive. Semi-quantitative methods combine the qualitative and quantitative assessment aspects.