Definition:
This term generally means the risk indicated by observed events, near misses, data, metrics, proof test results. It is the “truth on the ground”. This may confirm or contradict the stated risk. Not a formal term per 61508/61511 so it is used differently depending on the user and on context, but this is the most common usage.
revealed risk – what risk is actually present or happening
revealed risk tolerance – what level of risk is actually tolerated or accepted in real life
Key Points:
- Revealed Risk highlights the difference between assumptions and actual performance of safety systems.
- Real-world data may show higher or lower risk than originally stated.
- Helps validate or adjust SIL assignments and risk assessments over time.
Example:
After several spurious trips and longer-than-expected shutdown times, operational analysis shows the revealed risk of an overpressure event is higher than the predicted risk.
See also: Stated Risk, revealed risk tolerance
Cited Source:
- CCPS Guidelines for Risk-Based Process Safety.