Which sequence correctly represents the steps in a basic risk assessment?

Which sequence correctly represents the steps in a basic risk assessment?

• A. Identify hazards, assess risk, implement controls, verify effectiveness, and document.
• B. Define scope, identify hazards, implement controls, verify effectiveness, and document.
• C. Identify hazards, implement controls, assess risk, verify effectiveness, and document.
• D. Identify hazards, assess risk, document findings, and implement controls.

Answer: (A)

Basic risk assessment follows a clear flow: identify hazards, assess risk, implement controls, verify their effectiveness, and then document what was done and why. Starting with identifying hazards pins down what could cause harm. Then you evaluate how likely each hazard is and how severe the potential harm could be, which determines the overall risk level. With that understanding, you choose and put in place controls to reduce that risk. After implementing those controls, you verify that they’re actually working and remain appropriate for the situation. Finally, you document the findings, actions taken, and the outcomes so the process can be reviewed and referenced later. Defining scope before identifying hazards shifts the focus to planning rather than evaluating actual risks. Placing implementing controls before assessing risk means you’re guessing what to control without knowing the risk level. Documenting findings before taking action delays mitigation, since actions should be taken based on the risk assessment and then recorded.

Basic risk assessment follows a clear flow: identify hazards, assess risk, implement controls, verify their effectiveness, and then document what was done and why. Starting with identifying hazards pins down what could cause harm. Then you evaluate how likely each hazard is and how severe the potential harm could be, which determines the overall risk level. With that understanding, you choose and put in place controls to reduce that risk. After implementing those controls, you verify that they’re actually working and remain appropriate for the situation. Finally, you document the findings, actions taken, and the outcomes so the process can be reviewed and referenced later.

Defining scope before identifying hazards shifts the focus to planning rather than evaluating actual risks. Placing implementing controls before assessing risk means you’re guessing what to control without knowing the risk level. Documenting findings before taking action delays mitigation, since actions should be taken based on the risk assessment and then recorded.