In tree risk assessment, how are likelihood and impact rated?

In tree risk assessment, likelihood and impact are rated to provide a clear understanding of the potential consequences of a tree's failure and the probability of that failure occurring. The rating scale of high, medium, low, and very low is commonly used because it allows for a straightforward and quantifiable method to evaluate the risk associated with a tree.

Each rating conveys specific insights: a "high" likelihood indicates that failure is very plausible, while "very low" suggests that failure is unlikely to happen. Similarly, the impact rating assesses the severity of consequences if a failure occurs, helping assessors prioritize management actions accordingly.

This systematic approach ensures that all potential risks are measured consistently, facilitating informed decision-making in tree management and maintenance. It aligns well with risk assessment practices commonly utilized in various fields, as it offers clarity and a structured methodology to assess risk levels.