5×5 risk matrix calculator

Rate a hazard by how likely it is and how bad it could be, and this calculator gives you the risk score and rating, plus what to do about it. The 5×5 matrix is the standard used in Australian SWMS and risk assessments. Free, instant, nothing leaves your browser.

1. Likelihood2. Consequence

	Consequence →
Likelihood ↓	1 Insignificant	2 Minor	3 Moderate	4 Major	5 Catastrophic
5 Almost certain	5	10	15	20	25
4 Likely	4	8	12	16	20
3 Possible	3	6	9	12	15
2 Unlikely	2	4	6	8	10
1 Rare	1	2	3	4	5

This rating belongs in your SWMS.

Every hazard in a Safe Work Method Statement needs a risk rating before and after controls. SWMS Pack does the ratings and the controls for you, site-specific, for A$39.

Build my SWMS for A$39

Common questions

▸How does a 5x5 risk matrix work?

You rate a hazard for likelihood (1 rare to 5 almost certain) and consequence (1 insignificant to 5 catastrophic), then multiply the two. The score from 1 to 25 falls into a band: low, medium, high, or extreme, which tells you how urgently the risk must be controlled.

▸What risk score is acceptable?

Lower is better, but no score means "do nothing". Low risks still need routine controls recorded. Medium and above need specific controls, and extreme risks mean stopping until the risk is reduced. In a SWMS you rate the risk before and after controls to show the controls actually lower it.

▸Do I need a risk matrix for a SWMS?

A SWMS must show the risk of each step and how controls reduce it. A risk matrix is the standard way to express that: a rating before controls and a lower rating after. This calculator gives you those numbers.

Hierarchy of controls Do I need a SWMS?How to write a SWMS Site-specific SWMS, A$39