A successful risk management strategy requires a strong internal control environment. The risk control matrix (RCM) format emphasizes that strong and risk-oriented internal control environments are often optimized with automated/manual controls, depending on the situation.

An RCM provides an overview of different control objectives that organizations should take into consideration and the corresponding controls to safeguard the company against risks which may arise if not checked timely. Once customized to an organization, this document can help the user in assessing each control. The control assessment can then also be summarized to develop an action plan.

This document outlines risks and controls common to the external relationships aspect of the Process 13.3 Formulate Environmental Health & Safety Management process in a risk control matrix (RCM) format.

Sample risks include:

• Contractors and relevant employees may not be aware of permit restrictions.
• EH&S audit programs may not sufficiently cover all EH&S aspects/risks.
• EH&S audit results may not be communicated to the appropriate personnel to ensure timely resolution of issues.
• EH&S permits may be lost or destroyed.
• EH&S policies and procedures may not assist the organization with meeting its goals.

This document can be used as a sample RCM and is not meant to be an exhaustive list of risks and controls. The KnowledgeLeader team will periodically update this RCM with new content. Organizations should select, update and modify the risks and controls included in this document to ensure that it reflects business operations.