In ORM, what does 'risk mitigation' refer to?

Risk mitigation in the context of Operational Risk Management (ORM) is focused on the strategies and actions taken to lessen the severity or likelihood of an identified risk. This involves implementing measures that can either reduce the potential impact of a risk or lower the probability of that risk occurring. For example, if a certain activity poses a risk of injury, risk mitigation might include proper training, using safety equipment, or changing procedures to minimize that risk.

This approach acknowledges that while it may not be possible to completely eliminate all risks, effective risk management involves finding ways to make those risks more manageable and less threatening. Successful risk mitigation allows operations to proceed with greater safety and confidence while still recognizing the inherent uncertainties involved in any activity. This focus on reduction rather than elimination is key to understanding how ORM functions effectively within military operations.