10.6.6 Risk Matrices
Organizations may summarize residual risk using a matrix or another documented rating method.
Depending on the organization's system, ratings may include:
- Low;
- Moderate;
- High; and
- Extreme.
The rating can indicate the urgency of further action and the level of authorization required. Any unresolved potential to exceed an applicable exposure limit nevertheless requires further assessment or control regardless of the matrix label.
A risk matrix is only a decision-support tool. It does not determine RF compliance and should not conceal uncertainty behind a single score. The quality of the assessment depends on sound source information, appropriate exposure methods, competent judgment, worker consultation, and realistic evaluation of control reliability.
10.6.7 Selecting Appropriate Controls
Once the exposure conditions and risks have been established, controls should be selected using the hierarchy described in the following section.
Where reasonably practicable, the hazard should be eliminated. If it cannot be eliminated, risk should be minimized by substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, personal RF alarms, and other appropriate personal protective equipment, in that order of priority and often in combination.
The selected controls must achieve compliance, be proportionate to the risk, and be assessed for any hazards they introduce. Maintenance, training, verification, and review requirements should be specified when the controls are selected.