Likelihood × Consequence: rate the risk

Assess four common construction hazards on a 5×5 risk matrix, apply a control, and record the residual risk — exactly as you would on a JSA or SWMS.

How it works

Read the hazard. Judge how likely harm is and how severe it would be, then tap the matching cell on the matrix.

Lock in your rating. Compare your judgement with the model assessment — Extreme and High risks set the priority order for the day.

Apply the control and watch the risk move on the matrix. Record the residual risk on the register — the level that remains after the control.

This is the core risk-management step behind every JSA and SWMS: determine the level of risk for each hazard, control it, then rate and record what's left.

Likelihood — how likely is harm?

5 Almost certain	Expected to occur in most circumstances
4 Likely	Will probably occur in most circumstances
3 Possible	Might occur at some time
2 Unlikely	Could occur, but not expected
1 Rare	Only in exceptional circumstances

Consequence — how bad would it be?

1 Insignificant	No injury; nuisance only
2 Minor	First aid treatment only
3 Moderate	Medical treatment; lost time
4 Major	Serious injury; permanent impairment
5 Catastrophic	Fatality or multiple serious injuries

The rating tells you what to do

Extreme

Stop work. Do not proceed until the risk is reduced. Notify site management.

High

Act urgently — controls in place and signed off before work continues.

Medium

Plan controls and set a timeframe. Supervisor to monitor the task.

Low

Manage through routine procedures and housekeeping. Keep monitoring.

Likelihood × Consequence: rate the risk

How it works

Likelihood — how likely is harm?

Consequence — how bad would it be?

The rating tells you what to do

Step 1 — rate this risk

Step 2 — apply a control, record the residual risk

Risk register — before and after controls

Take it to site

5 Almost certain	Expected to occur
4 Likely	Will probably occur
3 Possible	Might occur at some time
2 Unlikely	Could occur, not expected
1 Rare	Exceptional circumstances only

1 Insignificant	No injury
2 Minor	First aid only
3 Moderate	Medical treatment / lost time
4 Major	Serious injury / permanent impairment
5 Catastrophic	Fatality