Risicospeurheid

Risicospeurheid is a term used in Dutch-language risk management and organizational culture literature to describe the inclination to actively seek out and evaluate risks as part of decision making. It covers curiosity about potential threats and opportunities, the willingness to probe assumptions, and the use of systematic risk-hunting practices in planning and operations.

Etymology and scope: The word combines risico (risk) with speurheid (curiosity or investigative zeal). It has emerged in risk management discourse in the Netherlands and Flanders in recent decades as a way to describe proactive risk sensing within teams and organizations, distinguishing it from passive risk awareness.

Characteristics: Individuals or teams with high risicospeurheid regularly scan for risk drivers, perform hazard hunts, conduct scenario planning, and challenge prevailing beliefs. They use data-driven methods, engage cross-functional colleagues, document risk factors, and maintain open reporting channels for near-misses and early signals.

Relation to other concepts: Risicospeurheid is not the same as risk tolerance or appetite, which describe acceptable levels of risk. Instead, it is a cultural or personal trait emphasizing proactive risk discovery and learning, balanced by governance and decision rights to prevent reckless experimentation.

Applications and measurement: It is used as a cultural indicator in risk governance and safety programs. Measurement methods include surveys, behavioral indicators (frequency of risk inquiries, risk documentation, and near-miss reporting), and integration into risk culture maturity assessments.

Critique: Critics warn that excessive risicospeurheid can lead to over-reporting or analysis paralysis if not aligned with risk appetite and practical controls. Proper balance with governance is essential to translate curiosity into constructive action.

See also: risk management, safety culture, resilience, continuous improvement.