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How to ... determine a risk rating

Definition: A systematic use of available information to determine how often specified events may occur and the magnitude of their consequences

UNSW currently uses the qualitative risk analysis matrix from AS/NZS 4360:1999 Appendix E.

Table E1 Qualitative measures of consequence or impact

Level

Descriptor

Example detail description

1

Insignificant

No injuries, low financial loss

2

Minor

First aid treatment, on-site release immediately contained, medium financial loss

3

Moderate

Medical treatment required, on-site release contained with outside assistance, high financial loss

4

Major

Extensive injuries, loss of production capability, off-site release with no detrimental effects, major financial loss

5

Catastrophic

Death, toxic release off-site with detrimental effect, huge financial loss

 

 

Table E2 Qualitative measures of likelihood

Level

Descriptor

Description

A

Almost certain

Is expected to occur in most circumstances

B

Likely

Will probably occur in most circumstances

C

Possible

Might occur at some time

D

Unlikely

Could occur at some time

E

Rare

May occur only in exceptional circumstances

 

 

Table E3 Qualitative risk analysis matrix – level of risk

 

Consequences

Insignificant

Minor

Moderate

Major

Catastrophic

Likelihood

1

2

3

4

5

A (almost certain)

H

H

E

E

E

B (likely)

M

H

H

E

E

C (possible)

L

M

H

E

E

D (unlikely)

L

L

M

H

E

E (rare)

L

L

M

H

H

 

Legend

 

          E: extreme risk; immediate action required

          H: high risk; senior management attention needed

          M: moderate risk; management responsibility must be specified

          L: low risk; manage by routine procedures