Risicoband

Risicoband is a classification system used in risk assessment to categorize the level of risk associated with a hazard, decision, or activity into discrete bands. The term is Dutch, combining risico (risk) and band (band), and is commonly found in safety, environmental, and project risk management contexts.

Typically bands are labeled from low to very high (for example Band 1 to Band 4, or colors such as green, yellow, orange, red). The assignment of a band is based on a scoring or rating scheme that combines probability of occurrence with the potential consequence. Some systems include other factors such as vulnerability, detectability, or exposure. The resulting band guides priority and action, from monitoring for low risk to formal mitigation for higher risk.

Implementation often uses a risk matrix or an algorithm that maps scores to bands. The exact cutoffs vary by organization, sector, or standard. Risicoband supports communicability and decision-making, by providing a visual shorthand for complex risk profiles. It is used alongside more detailed risk registers and mitigation plans.

Applications include occupational safety, environmental risk assessment, project management, and financial risk in some contexts. It can be used in regulatory compliance and in governance to set thresholds and escalation procedures.

Limitations include potential oversimplification, dependence on data quality, subjectivity in scoring, and drift if bands are not updated to reflect changing conditions.

See also: risk matrix, risk assessment, ISO 31000, risk management.