What do terms catastrophic critical moderate and negligible describe in the risk assessment matrix?

The terms catastrophic, critical, moderate, and negligible are used to describe the levels of risk in a risk assessment matrix. The matrix is a tool that helps organizations to identify, assess, and manage risks. It typically consists of a grid with two axes: one axis represents the probability of a risk occurring, and the other axis represents the potential impact of the risk. The terms catastrophic, critical, moderate, and negligible are used to describe the different levels of risk that can be identified on the matrix.

Catastrophic

A catastrophic risk is one that has the potential to cause widespread damage or loss of life. Examples of catastrophic risks include natural disasters, such as earthquakes or floods, and terrorist attacks.

Critical

A critical risk is one that has the potential to cause significant damage or loss of life. Examples of critical risks include industrial accidents, such as chemical spills or explosions, and transportation accidents, such as plane crashes or train wrecks.

Moderate

A moderate risk is one that has the potential to cause some damage or loss of life. Examples of moderate risks include slips and falls, minor fires, and theft.

Negligible

A negligible risk is one that has the potential to cause little or no damage or loss of life. Examples of negligible risks include paper cuts or computer crashes.

The terms catastrophic, critical, moderate, and negligible are used to help organizations to prioritize risks and develop strategies to manage them. By understanding the level of risk associated with a particular activity, an organization can take steps to reduce the likelihood of the risk occurring and to minimize the impact of the risk if it does occur.