What is the definition of a risk?

The definition of a risk is best captured as the possibility of harm when exposed to a hazard. This involves understanding that risk is not just about the presence of a danger but rather focuses on the likelihood and potential consequences of that danger manifesting under certain conditions. In professional settings, especially regarding safety and health, risk assessment is crucial as it helps to identify how likely it is that a hazard could lead to harm and what that harm could look like.

This definition highlights the relationship between hazards and potential outcomes, emphasizing that risk is inherently tied to uncertainty: it encompasses scenarios where something negative could occur as a result of interacting with a hazard. Recognizing this definition helps individuals and organizations implement appropriate measures to mitigate risks effectively.

Other choices do not encapsulate the full essence of what a risk truly represents in a comprehensive way, focusing instead on various aspects like danger levels, assessments, or evaluations that, while important, do not define risk itself.