IOSH Managing Safely Exam Prep 2026

In the context of risk management, "consequence" refers to the potential outcome that arises from a hazardous event. This can encompass a wide range of effects, including injury, damage to property, or any other adverse outcomes that may occur as a result of exposure to a risk. Understanding the consequences is crucial because it helps organizations prioritize risks based on their potential severity and the impact they may have on individuals, property, and the environment.

Recognizing potential outcomes enables effective decision-making regarding which risks need to be mitigated and to what extent. This definition distinguishes consequence from other related processes, such as assessing workplace hazards, which focuses more on identifying the risks themselves rather than their outcomes. It also differentiates from legal implications or the methods employed to minimize risks, which are more about responses and obligations following or preventing incidents.