A holistic framework for conceptualising and describing risk

A number of definitions and interpretations of the risk concept exist. Many of these are probability-based. In this paper we present and discuss a structure for characterising the definitions, which is founded on a clear distinction between (a) risk as a concept based on events, consequences and uncertainties; (b) risk as a modelled, quantitative concept; and (c) risk descriptions. The discussion leads to a holistic framework for conceptualising and assessing risk, which is based on risk defined by (a), and the probability-based definitions of risk can be viewed as related model parameters and/or risk descriptions. Two ways of detailing the framework are outlined: the relative frequency-based approach and the Bayesian approach. The Framework provides clear guidance on how to think when conceptualising and assessing risk in practice. Such guidance is strongly needed for the risk analysis discipline which is young and characterised by many different risk perspectives and approaches.