Risk Management & Mitigation Flashcards

Which approach to risk management involves accepting a risk because the cost of mitigation exceeds the potential loss?

Answer: Risk retention

Risk retention (acceptance) is chosen when mitigation costs outweigh the expected loss value.

A building analyst identifies moisture intrusion at a window head flashing. What is the FIRST recommended mitigation step?

Answer: Correct the flashing installation to ensure proper water diversion

Addressing the source — improper flashing — eliminates the root cause rather than treating symptoms.

In a risk matrix, a hazard rated HIGH probability and LOW consequence would typically be categorized as:

Answer: Moderate risk warranting scheduled remediation

High probability combined with low consequence generally yields a moderate composite risk score.

Which combustion safety test evaluates whether a gas appliance creates negative pressure that could cause backdrafting?

Answer: Combustion zone worst-case depressurization test

Worst-case depressurization testing determines the maximum negative pressure the combustion zone can experience to assess backdraft risk.

When prioritizing health and safety risks during a building assessment, which condition demands the most URGENT response?

Answer: Elevated carbon monoxide levels from a malfunctioning furnace

Elevated carbon monoxide is immediately life-threatening and requires occupant notification and appliance shutdown before any other work.

A building analyst recommends sealing all attic bypasses before adding insulation. This sequence addresses which risk?

Answer: Air-transported moisture condensing in new insulation

Air leakage carries moisture into insulation, where it can condense and cause mold or structural damage.

Which standard provides the framework most commonly used in the US for residential energy auditing risk and scope documentation?

Answer: BPI Building Analyst Professional Standards

BPI BA Professional Standards define the scope, health & safety protocols, and documentation requirements for residential building analysis.