Risk Matrix

Summary

A risk matrix is a tool used to assess the level of risk posed by various hazards on a fishing vessel, considering the likelihood of occurrence and potential consequence. The skipper determines likelihood based on factors like training, experience, environment, and equipment condition. The summary explains how the risk matrix combines likelihood and consequence to produce a risk rating used to prioritize hazards. It provides an example of electrocution risk, demonstrating how controls like training, inspection, protective equipment, and task elimination can reduce risk.

Takeaways

• 😀 A risk matrix assesses the level of risk from hazards by determining the likelihood and consequences.
• 👷‍♂️ Likelihood increases with frequency of exposure and is influenced by training, knowledge, environment and state of mind.
• 🌊 Consequences range from insignificant to catastrophic based on a consequence table.
• 📊 The risk matrix plots likelihood on one axis and consequence on the other to determine risk level.
• 🎨 Risk levels are color coded - green is low risk, blue is moderate, yellow is high and red is extreme.
• 🚧 Boat owners determine likelihood and consequence rankings to suit their vessel.
• 💡 Administrative controls like training and inspection can reduce likelihood of accidents.
• 🔌 Engineering controls like RCDs can reduce likelihood but not necessarily consequence.
• 🛠 Substitution, like a battery powered tool, can reduce potential consequence.
• ❌ Eliminating a hazard entirely is the best control to remove risk.

Q & A

What is a risk matrix used for?

A risk matrix is used to assess the level of risk to an identified hazard such as falling overboard or cutting oneself using a knife.

What two factors are considered when assessing risk level?

The two factors considered are 1) the likelihood of the hazard occurring, and 2) the probable consequence as a result of it occurring.

How does likelihood of an accident increase?

Likelihood increases with more frequent exposure, less training/experience, hazardous environments, fatigue, improper tools and equipment.

Who determines the likelihood and consequence rankings?

The boat owner or skipper determines the likelihood and consequence rankings to suit their boat and fishing operation.

What are the four risk levels denoted by color?

The four risk levels are: Green (Low), Blue (Moderate), Yellow (High), Red (Extreme).

What are some administrative controls the skipper introduced?

Administrative controls included safety inspection and tagging of electrical equipment, training on inspecting equipment, and policy for inspection before use.

How did RCDs impact the risk level?

RCDs reduced likelihood of electrocution but did not change the potential consequence of electrocution, so risk level remained high.

How does substitution help reduce risk?

Substituting a battery-powered grinder reduced the potential consequence and severity should electrocution occur.

What is the best way to eliminate a hazard completely?

Elimination by outsourcing the grinding task removed the risk entirely, making it the ultimate safety control.

What are the key takeaways from this training?

Key takeaways are understanding risk matrix components, assessing likelihood/consequence, applying controls to reduce risk, and eliminating hazards completely when possible.