Who is primarily responsible for deciding whether to accept risk within Navy operations?

The role of the ORM Manager is critical in the risk management process, but the primary responsibility for accepting risk ultimately resides with the Commanding Officer. The Commanding Officer has the authority and responsibility to make decisions regarding the overall mission and safety of the personnel under their command, including the acceptance of risk associated with various operational decisions.

While the ORM Manager provides support through the assessment of risks and the development of control measures, it is the Commanding Officer who evaluates these insights in the context of operational goals and mission requirements. This decision-making authority is essential since it aligns with the Commanding Officer’s overarching responsibility for the safety and effectiveness of their unit.

The Operations Officer and Safety Officer may also contribute to the risk assessment process through their specialized roles and expertise, but they ultimately advise and inform the Commanding Officer rather than make the final decision regarding risk acceptance. The responsibility is collective in terms of information gathering and risk assessment, but the accountability for that decision lies with the Commanding Officer.