The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) risk-taking model uses three criteria: severity, probability, and?

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) risk-taking model includes three criteria: severity, probability, and exposure. Exposure is a critical component, as it refers to the degree to which personnel or resources are subjected to potential hazards. By considering exposure, the model allows for a comprehensive assessment of risk by incorporating not just how severe a possible incident may be, and how likely it is to occur, but also how much personnel or equipment are at risk if that incident were to happen.

In this context, understanding exposure helps in evaluating the potential impact of an incident on both life and operations. This broader view is essential for effectively managing risks and ensures that safety measures are appropriately aligned with the actual conditions faced during operations. When exposure is taken into account alongside severity and probability, it enables a more thorough and practical approach to risk assessment and decision-making in high-stakes environments like those the Coast Guard operates in. These three combined criteria support a structured way to analyze and prioritize risks effectively.