NEBOSH Practice Test

Which factor does ALARP consider when evaluating risks?

1. The severity of potential harm

2. Time, trouble, and money needed for control

3. Number of people impacted by the risk

4. The location of the risk

The correct answer is: Time, trouble, and money needed for control

ALARP stands for "As Low As Reasonably Practicable," which is a principle used in risk management to minimize risks to acceptable levels. When evaluating risks, ALARP takes into account the balance between the severity of potential harm and the resources required to mitigate that risk, such as time, trouble, and money. This means that while the potential harm from a risk must be recognized, the focus shifts to what is reasonably practicable to reduce that risk. The evaluation involves determining whether the cost and effort of implementing additional safeguards are warranted when weighed against the level of risk that remains. If the costs of further risk reduction measures are disproportionate to the benefit gained in terms of risk reduction, then further risk mitigation may not be considered necessary. In this context, the other factors listed—such as the severity of potential harm, number of people impacted, and location of the risk—are important in the overall risk assessment process but do not directly reflect the ALARP principle's emphasis on the balance between risk reduction effort and practicality.