The Occupational Safety Leadership Podcast Episode 94 - 5 x 5 Risk Assessment Matrix
Oct 11, 2023
09:12
- Topic: This episode introduces and explains the 5 x 5 Risk Assessment Matrix, a structured method for assessing risks in occupational safety.
- How It Works:
- The matrix uses five levels of likelihood (from rare to almost certain).
- It also uses five levels of severity (from negligible to catastrophic).
- Multiplying these values gives a risk score that helps safety leaders decide which hazards require immediate attention.
- Purpose: Provides a visual and systematic way to prioritize risks, ensuring that resources are directed toward the most critical safety issues.
- Application: Commonly used in safety programs to evaluate hazards such as chemical exposure, equipment failure, or unsafe behaviors.
- Why It Matters for Safety Leadership
- Clarity in decision-making: Leaders can quickly identify which risks are unacceptable and need urgent mitigation.
- Consistency: The matrix standardizes risk evaluation across teams, reducing subjective judgment.
- Communication: It’s a simple visual tool that helps explain risk levels to employees, executives, and regulators.