N1G 3W4, Canada. This document describes a general framework of risk assessment within an overall context of risk analysis, as it is promoted by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture Food and Rural Affairs for use on a voluntary basis. These principles may be applied to trade between producers, processors, or consumers, between immediate neighbours, counties, provinces or countries. Risk includes elements of both the probability and the negative impact of an undesirable outcome occurring. Risk analysis includes risk assessment, risk management and risk communication.
Risk assessment provides the scientific basis for the overall management of risk.
It identifies general elements of risk management and risk communication that managers may wish to address in greater detail. When referring to the probability component of risk we encourage the use of terms such as probability, likelihood, or frequency. When referring to the negative consequences of a causal hazard, we encourage the use of terms such as negative outcome, consequence or impact. The process of identifying a hazard and characterizing the risk presented by that hazard, in qualitative or quantitative terms. The process within risk assessment, of estimating the probability of harm and the severity of impact of a an identified hazard, and describing attendant uncertainty.