What is BS EN 16708:2020?

BS EN 16708:2020 is a professional technical standard that sets out the requirements for developing and implementing an effective risk management system in organizations. The standard provides guidelines and recommendations on how to identify, assess, and prioritize risks, as well as how to develop and implement appropriate risk control measures.

The Purpose of BS EN 16708:2020

The aim of BS EN 16708:2020 is to help organizations proactively manage risks and improve their overall performance. By implementing an effective risk management system based on the principles outlined in the standard, organizations can enhance their decision-making processes, minimize potential losses, and seize new opportunities.

The standard emphasizes the importance of understanding contextual factors such as the organization's objectives, legal and regulatory requirements, and the needs of stakeholders. It provides a structured approach to risk management, enabling organizations to integrate risk management into their overall management systems and strategic planning processes.

The Key Elements of BS EN 16708:2020

BS EN 16708:2020 lays down several key elements that need to be addressed in an effective risk management system:

Risk Management Policy: Organizations should establish a clear and documented risk management policy that aligns with their overall objectives and commitments.

Planning: The standard emphasizes the importance of systematic planning, including defining objectives, establishing criteria for risk assessment, and identifying available resources.

Risk Analysis: Organizations are required to identify and analyze risks based on their likelihood and potential impact, taking into account external and internal factors.

Risk Evaluation: Organizations should evaluate risks to determine their significance and prioritize them for further action. This involves considering factors such as legal requirements, stakeholder expectations, and the organization's risk appetite.

Risk Treatment: BS EN 16708:2020 provides guidance on selecting appropriate risk treatment options, including avoiding, transferring, mitigating, or accepting risks. Organizations are also encouraged to develop contingency plans.

Monitoring and Review: The standard stresses the need for regular monitoring and review of the effectiveness of the risk management system and updating it as necessary.

The Benefits of Implementing BS EN 16708:2020

Implementing BS EN 16708:2020 can bring significant benefits to organizations:

Improved decision-making processes based on a systematic approach to risk assessment and evaluation.

Enhanced understanding of risks and opportunities, enabling organizations to make informed decisions and seize new business opportunities.

Better alignment with legal and regulatory requirements, reducing the potential for non-compliance and associated penalties.

Increased confidence of stakeholders, including customers, employees, investors, and regulatory authorities.

Reduced losses and disruptions through proactive risk management, leading to improved financial performance.

In conclusion, BS EN 16708:2020 is a comprehensive standard that provides organizations with guidelines on developing and implementing an effective risk management system. By following the principles outlined in the standard, organizations can enhance their ability to manage risks, improve decision-making processes, and achieve better overall performance.