Proposal familiarisation

The main output from the process is the definition of action schedules and management measures

and assignment of responsibility for implementation.

As a preparatory step, gain familiarity with the proposed project or activity and identify key parameters

and assumptions. This should follow definition of the Risk Management brief and assignment of

responsibilities for undertaking the Risk Management evaluation. Familiarisation can be seen to

comprise three activities:

Define objectives

This involves the Risk Management group becoming familiar with:

operating, maintenance and disposal procedures.

Identify criteria

The assessment criteria for a proposal or project are concerned with how well its objectives will be

met and how appropriate are these objectives. They will reflect the principal purposes of the proposal

and its means of execution and assist in defining key elements.

In the planning stages of the asset cycle, the criteria will reflect strategic concerns, while in the

delivery, maintenance and disposal stages the criteria are likely to concern the efficient completion of

The initial separation is usually into the major items or activities, but the detailed structure depends on

the nature of the associated risks.

A broad view of the asset or activity at this stage is more appropriate than a detailed one to

concentrate focus on the main issues and to establish a balanced framework for the analysis.

In practice, a range of 20 to 50 items or elements is commonly targeted. The items should be distinct

and meaningful, and cover the entire proposal scope or procurement and operational aspects.

Identify risks

The analysis begins with listing the risks that might affect each key element of the project. The aim is

to generate a comprehensive list of the relevant risks and document what each one involves. The

analysis should include a description of the risk and how it might arise, possible initiating factors, the

main assumptions and a list of the principal sources of information.

There are several ways to identify risks:

innovative management arrangements or to develop initial checklists.

Risk Management teams comprising multi-disciplinary backgrounds are well suited to this phase.

They can be supported by the many specialist techniques applicable to particular kinds of projects or

risks. For example, hazard analysis may be directed to specific safety issues or complex

environmental applications, while failure modes analysis can be used for examining risks in technical

systems.

Assess likelihoods & consequences

Screen minor risks