Management of Risk

At California Polytechnic State University, the “Management of risk is a priority function of the university to ensure the use of resources for the established program purposes rather than for funding losses due to foreseeable risks.” (CAP 361)

The management of risk is the ongoing process which includes “risk management” (See: Risk Management – A Short Course) for which Program Managers are responsible as the appropriate administrators (CSU Executive Order # 715).

Program Managers (Vice Presidents, Deans and Executive Directors) are to ensure that for operations and resources under their control, including among others:

Classroom Instruction,
Laboratory, Shop and Field instruction and use,
Facilities use, maintenance, and rental to others,
Equipment, materials, vehicles, - possession, maintenance and use,
Field trips and Travel (local, national and international),
Class Projects, Senior Projects, Graduate Projects,
Natural Resources, animals and plants, waters, air,
Employees, students, visitors, volunteers,
Recruitment, appointment supervision, evaluation and promotion,
Construction, remodeling, renovation, demolition,
Practice of professional services – medical, psychological, architectural, engineering, accounting, investment, etc.
Commercial Operations and Public Events,
Athletic Events, Recreational Programs and Facilities,
Conferences, workshops, institutes,
Sabbaticals, Research, Committees.

Risks of loss to:

• human health and safety;
• environmental resources;
• property, buildings, or other assets;
• financial resources
• political position and reputation
• technological abilities and capacity
• operations (organizational interruption, liability).

1. Are identified and analyzed for frequency, severity and impact of maximum possible as well as probable loss.

2. Techniques for prevention, reduction and payment of losses are developed for consideration and are selected and implemented to manage the risk without unduly curtailing or modifying activities necessary to the University mission.

3. Implemented techniques are monitored and evaluated to continuously improve the management of risk at Cal Poly.

Program Managers are encouraged to involve department heads, directors, managers, supervisors, faculty, staff and students involved in university activities to participate managing risk to prevent injuries, property damage and disruption of the university’s mission.

“Risk Management is everybody’s job at the University….”

Charles B. Reed
Chancellor
California State University