1
Source
Use a single register to avoid conflicting versions.
Risk registeressentials
Document risks, owners, and progress clearly.
Learn what a risk register is, how to structure it, and how to keep it updated for reporting and oversight.
What is a risk register?
A risk register stores every organisational risk with details like description, owner, rating, controls, and status so leadership can monitor progress.
3
Fields
At minimum capture description, rating, and owner.
Live
Status
Update continuously—not just at quarter-end.
WHY IT MATTERS
Why a risk register underpins governance
Shows accountability. Owners and due dates ensure someone is acting.
Simplifies reporting. Boards can see status at a glance.
Supports audits. Registers prove that risks are tracked and treated.
STRUCTURE
How to structure a risk register
- Standard fields Include description, category, inherent rating, controls, residual rating, and next steps.
- Link to appetite Flag if residual risk is above appetite and needs escalation.
- Embed workflows Tie register entries to remediation tasks, approvals, and comments.
CADENCE
How to keep the register current
- Update monthly Owners refresh ratings and commentary before governance meetings.
- Log changes Version history or changelog columns show what moved.
- Share dashboards Visualise risk trends and overdue actions for stakeholders.
- Archive and learn Store closed risks for lessons learned and future audits.
Risk register quick wins
Pick a single tool
Use a shared spreadsheet or platform—no more inbox versions.
Create templates
Provide drop-downs for categories and statuses to keep entries consistent.
Automate summaries
Publish weekly summaries showing top emerging risks.
RISK REGISTER GLOSSARY SNAPSHOT
Risk register glossary snapshot
Risk owner. The person accountable for managing a specific risk.
Residual rating. Risk level remaining after controls and actions.
Action plan. Tasks assigned to reduce or monitor a risk.
FAQS
Risk register FAQs
How detailed should entries be?
Enough for an independent reader to understand the risk, controls, and next steps. Use concise, structured text.
Who can edit the register?
Risk owners update entries; risk teams govern structure and approvals.
How do we keep it accurate?
Automate reminders and tie updates to governance meetings so owners refresh status regularly.
Can we use spreadsheets?
Yes, but ensure version control, permissions, and backups. Platforms like Drova RunSustainably make this easier.
Drova RunSafe keeps registers, owners, and remediation tasks synced.
Ready to centralise your risk register?
GRC 101 HUB
Explore related topics
Risk management basics
See where registers fit in the lifecycle.
Risk controls toolkit
Link controls to register entries.
Residual risk guide
Record how much risk remains.
Inherent risk explainer
Capture baseline ratings alongside residual.
Risk appetite overview
Flag entries that exceed appetite.
Integrated risk guide
Share register insights across teams.
