HKSM
Secondary Risk
A risk that is introduced specifically because you implement a response to another risk.
Key Points
- Created by executing a risk response to a different, original risk.
- Should be identified, analyzed, and documented when planning risk responses.
- May require its own owner, monitoring, and tailored response strategy.
- Different from residual risk, which is the remaining exposure after a response is applied.
Example
To address a schedule risk, the team chooses to fast-track work. This overlap of activities increases the chance of rework and coordination errors. Those new rework and coordination risks are secondary risks caused by the chosen response.
PMP Example Question
To mitigate a delay, the project manager decides to crash the schedule by adding overtime. Later, the team reports more defects due to fatigue. What best describes these defect-related risks?
- Secondary risks
- Residual risks
- Contingent risks
- Issues
Correct Answer: A — Secondary risks
Explanation: The defects arose specifically because of the implemented response (crashing with overtime), making them secondary risks.
