Risk assessment training

At RSI, our risk assessment training is divided into two. Our ‘umbrella’ turn-key courses are designed for busy professionals who need to have risk training in all three aspects of risk: understanding, managing and communicating. Additionally, RSI develops client-specific risk assessment training designed to build that organization’s capacity to conduct sound risk assessments.

Indeed, developing and delivering a risk assessment training program is a strategic activity aimed at enhancing an organization’s capacity to identify, analyze, and manage risks effectively. The training serves to instill a consistent understanding and methodology for risk assessment across various departments and roles within the organization.

The first step in this process is to conduct a needs assessment to identify gaps in knowledge and skills related to risk assessment among the intended audience. This can involve surveys, interviews, or even observational studies. The needs assessment should also consider existing training programs, if any, and how the new program will complement or improve upon them.

Based on the needs assessment, the next step is to set clear objectives for the training program. These objectives should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART). They will serve as both a roadmap for content development and a baseline for evaluating the training’s effectiveness post-implementation.

Once objectives are set, content development begins. The content should cover essential components of risk assessment, including risk identification, analysis, evaluation, and treatment options. It might also include case studies, real-life examples, and interactive exercises to facilitate learning. Various pedagogical methods, such as lectures, workshops, and e-learning modules, could be employed depending on the learning preferences of the target audience and logistical considerations.

In parallel to content development, consideration must also be given to the mode of delivery. Options range from in-person training sessions to online webinars or a hybrid approach. The choice often depends on factors like the geographic distribution of the trainees, available resources, and the complexity of the subject matter. Support materials like handouts, slide decks, or digital resources will also be prepared to reinforce the training.

Note that for larger groups, RSI recommends the use of client-side course facilitators who are advance trained in the curriculum.

Before the formal rollout, a pilot session can be invaluable. This provides an opportunity to test the content, delivery methods, and logistics and to make adjustments based on feedback. It’s a form of quality control that helps to ensure that the training program will meet its objectives effectively.

After the training program is rolled out, ongoing evaluation is essential. Short-term evaluations usually involve feedback forms or quizzes administered immediately after the training to gauge participant satisfaction and retention of material. Long-term evaluations may involve assessments of how effectively the training has translated into improved risk management practices within the organization.

To maintain its relevance and effectiveness, RSI-developed training programs are reviewed and updated regularly. Changes are informed by the regulatory environment, technological advancements, or shifts in the organizational risk landscape generally.

In summary, developing and delivering an RSI risk assessment training program involves a multi-step process that includes needs assessment, objective setting, content development, mode of delivery selection, facilitator preparation, pilot testing, and ongoing evaluation. Each of these steps is aimed at ensuring that the training program is effective, relevant, and aligned with the organization’s risk management objectives.