The analysis of a situation to determine the level of risk inherent in that situation is called?

Risk assessment, within the Incident Command System (ICS), is a fundamental step in emergency response planning and management. The ICS framework integrates risk assessment into its decision-making process to ensure that responses are proportionate to the level of risk. For example, in a chemical spill scenario, the ICS would initiate a risk assessment to evaluate the toxicity of the chemical, potential exposure routes, and the population at risk.

From the perspective of emergency planners and responders, risk assessment is a critical tool for preparing and responding to hazardous situations. It allows them to anticipate potential challenges and allocate resources efficiently. In their view, a well-conducted risk assessment is not just about identifying hazards, but also about understanding the context of the emergency, including environmental conditions, community vulnerabilities, and available resources.

Risk assessment also involves continuous monitoring and re-evaluation of the situation as it evolves. During an ongoing emergency, responders rely on risk assessments to adapt their strategies in response to changing conditions. This dynamic aspect of risk assessment underscores its importance in managing emergencies, where flexibility and adaptability are key to effective response.

Source: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=is-5.a&lang=en