Impactniveau

Impactniveau is a term used in risk assessment to denote the level of severity of consequences that would result if a hazard materializes. It is typically considered together with the probability of occurrence to derive a risk rating and guide mitigation priorities.

In practice, impactniveau can be qualitative (for example low, medium, high) or quantitative (numerical scores). The criteria defining the level of impact vary by domain, but common dimensions include health and safety effects (from no injury to fatality), environmental damage (local versus regional impact), economic loss (ranging from minor costs to large financial damages), and potential reputational or legal consequences. Scales are defined in advance within risk policies or standards to enable consistent application.

Hazard assessment processes involve identifying risks, assigning an impactniveau to each hazard, and recording the results in a risk register. This assessment informs the selection and prioritization of controls, preventive measures, emergency planning, and resource allocation. Re-evaluation is typically required when operations, context, or external factors change.

Limitations of the concept include subjectivity in applying criteria and variations across sectors. Clear, transparent criteria and documentation improve consistency and allow comparisons across projects or activities. The impactniveau concept is often used in conjunction with probability to produce a combined risk rating and to support decision-making in safety, environmental, and regulatory contexts.