Average Individual Risk measures the probability of fatality for an individual within an exposed population, providing a standardized way to compare risks across different scenarios. It accounts for factors such as exposure duration, population density, and hazard severity. This metric is widely used in risk assessment for industries like chemical processing, transportation, and urban planning. By quantifying individual risk levels, decision-makers can implement targeted safety measures to minimize potential hazards and improve public safety.
Essential for quantifying and comparing risks across different activities, locations, and populations, enabling data-driven safety decisions and resource allocation.
Average Individual Risk is a simple ratio expresses risk as a probability that any one individual in the exposed group will suffer a fatality.
ISO 31000 (Risk Management), OSHA's Acceptable Risk Thresholds (typically 1×10⁻⁴ per year), and EPA's Cancer Risk Guidelines (1×10⁻⁶ benchmark).
While simple in form, average individual risk calculation provides foundational data for comparing and managing risks across all aspects of modern life, from workplace safety to public health policy.