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Outline

The DD Form 2977, also known as the Deliberate Risk Assessment Worksheet, plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficacy of military operations and training activities. This form is designed to guide personnel through a systematic process of identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks associated with specific missions or tasks. It begins with a clear description of the mission, along with essential details such as the date, preparer's information, and relevant unit identifiers. The form outlines five fundamental steps of risk management: identifying hazards, assessing their potential impact, developing and implementing controls, and finally supervising and evaluating the effectiveness of those controls. Each hazard is categorized by its initial risk level, which is determined by analyzing both the probability of occurrence and the severity of potential consequences. The DD Form 2977 not only facilitates a thorough examination of risks but also requires an overall supervision plan and a recommended course of action, culminating in an approval or disapproval decision by a designated authority. Feedback and lessons learned sections encourage continuous improvement by capturing insights from past experiences, thereby enhancing future mission readiness and safety protocols.

Sample - Dd 2977 Form

DD FORM 2977, SEP 2014
Page 1 of 3
DELIBERATE RISK ASSESSMENT WORKSHEET
1. MISSION/TASK DESCRIPTION 2. DATE (YYYYMMDD)
3. PREPARED BY
a. Name (Last, First Middle Initial) b. Rank/Grade c. Duty Title/Position
d. Unit e. Work Email f. Telephone (DSN/Commercial (Include Area Code))
g. UIC/CIN (as required) h. Training Support/Lesson Plan or OPORD (as required) i. Signature of Preparer
Five steps of Risk Management: (1) Identify the hazards (2) Assess the hazards (3) Develop controls & make decisions
(4) Implement controls (5) Supervise and evaluate (Step numbers not equal to numbered items on form)
4. SUBTASK/SUBSTEP OF
MISSION/TASK
5. HAZARD 6. INITIAL
RISK LEVEL
7. CONTROL 8. HOW TO IMPLEMENT/
WHO WILL IMPLEMENT
9. RESIDUAL
RISK LEVEL
10. OVERALL RESIDUAL RISK LEVEL (All controls implemented):
11. OVERALL SUPERVISION PLAN AND RECOMMENDED COURSE OF ACTION
12. APPROVAL OR DISAPPROVAL OF MISSION OR TASK
a. Name (Last, First, Middle Initial) b. Rank/Grade c. Duty Title/Position d. Signature of Approval Authority
e. Additional Guidance:
DD FORM 2977, SEP 2014
Page 2 of 3
Probability (expected frequency)
Risk Assessment Matrix
Frequent:
Continuous,
regular, or
inevitable
occurrences
Likely:
Several or
numerous
occurrences
Occasional:
Sporadic or
intermittent
occurrences
Seldom:
Infrequent
occurrences
Unlikely:
Possible
occurrences
but improbable
Severity (expected consequence) A B C D E
Catastrophic: Mission failure, unit readiness eliminated;
death, unacceptable loss or damage
I EH EH H H M
Critical: Significantly degraded unit readiness or mission
capability; severe injury, illness, loss or damage
II EH H H M L
Moderate: Somewhat degraded unit readiness or mission
capability; minor injury, illness, loss, or damage
III H M M L L
Negligible: Little or no impact to unit readiness or mission
capability; minimal injury, loss, or damage
IV M L L L L
Legend: EH - Extremely High Risk H - High Risk M - Medium Risk L - Low Risk
13. RISK ASSESSMENT REVIEW (Required when assessment applies to ongoing operations or activities)
a. Date b. Last Name c. Rank/Grade d. Duty Title/Position e. Signature of Reviewer
14. FEEDBACK AND LESSONS LEARNED
15. ADDITIONAL COMMENTS OR REMARKS
DD FORM 2977, SEP 2014
Page 3 of 3
Instructions for Completing DD Form 2977, "Deliberate Risk Assessment Worksheet"
1. Mission/Task Description: Briefly describe
the overall Mission or Task for which the
deliberate risk assessment is being conducted.
2. Date (DD/MM/YYY): Self Explanatory.
3. Prepared By: Information provided by the
individual conducting the deliberate risk
assessment for the operation or training.
Legend: UIC = Unit Identification Code; CIN =
Course ID Number; OPORD = operation order;
DSN = defense switched network; COMM =
commercial
4. Sub-task/Sub-Step of Mission/Task: Briefly
describe all subtasks or substeps that warrant
risk management.
5. Hazard: Specify hazards related to the
subtask in block 4.
6. Initial Risk Level: Determine probability and
severity. Using the risk assessment matrix (page
3), determine level of risk for each hazard
specified. probability, severity and associated
Risk Level; enter level into column.
7. Control: Enter risk mitigation resources/
controls identified to abate or reduce risk relevant
to the hazard identified in block 5.
8. How to Implement / Who Will Implement:
Briefly describe the means of employment for
each control (i.e., OPORD, briefing, rehearsal)
and the name of the individual unit or office that
has primary responsibility for control
implementation.
9. Residual Risk Level: After controls are
implemented, determine resulting probability,
severity, and residual risk level.
10. Overall Risk After Controls are
Implemented: Assign an overall residual risk
level. This is equal to or greater than the highest
residual risk level (from block 9).
11. Supervision Plan and Recommended
Course of Action: Completed by preparer.
Identify specific tasks and levels of responsibility
for supervisory personnel and provide the
decision authority with a recommend course of
action for approval or disapproval based upon
the overall risk assessment.
12. Approval/Disapproval of Mission/Task:
Risk approval authority approves or disapproves
the mission or task based on the overall risk
assessment, including controls, residual risk
level, and supervision plan.
13. Risk Assessment Review: Should be
conducted on a regular basis. Reviewers should
have sufficient oversight of the mission or activity
and controls to provide valid input on changes or
adjustments needed. If the residual risk rises
above the level already approved, operations
should cease until the appropriate approval
authority is contacted and approves continued
operations.
14. Feedback and Lessons Learned: Provide
specific input on the effectiveness of risk controls
and their contribution to mission success or
failure. Include recommendations for new or
revised controls, practicable solutions, or
alternate actions. Submit and brief valid lessons
learned as necessary to persons affected.
15. Additional Comments or Remarks:
Preparer or approval authority provides any
additional comments, remarks, or information to
support the integration of risk management.
Additional Guidance: Blocks 4-9 may be
reproduced as necessary for processing of all
subtasks/ substeps of the mission/task. The
addition and subtraction buttons are designed to
enable users to accomplish this task.

Form Information

Fact Name Description
Purpose The DD Form 2977 is used to assess risks associated with military missions or tasks.
Five Steps of Risk Management The form outlines five key steps: Identify hazards, Assess hazards, Develop controls, Implement controls, and Supervise and evaluate.
Prepared By Information on the individual conducting the assessment is required, including their name, rank, and contact details.
Initial Risk Level The form requires an initial risk level assessment based on probability and severity of identified hazards.
Approval Process Mission or task approval is necessary, with signatures from the approval authority after reviewing the risk assessment.
State-Specific Forms Some states may have additional requirements or forms governed by state-specific laws related to risk management.

Detailed Guide for Filling Out Dd 2977

Filling out the DD 2977 form involves a series of steps to ensure that all necessary information is accurately recorded. After completing the form, it will be reviewed for approval or disapproval of the mission or task based on the assessed risks.

  1. Mission/Task Description: Briefly describe the overall mission or task for which the risk assessment is being conducted.
  2. Date: Enter the date in the format YYYYMMDD.
  3. Prepared By: Fill in your name (last, first, middle initial), rank/grade, duty title/position, unit, work email, telephone (DSN/commercial), UIC/CIN, and signature.
  4. Sub-task/Sub-step of Mission/Task: Describe any subtasks or substeps that need risk management.
  5. Hazard: Specify any hazards related to the subtask mentioned in the previous step.
  6. Initial Risk Level: Use the risk assessment matrix to determine the initial risk level based on probability and severity for each hazard.
  7. Control: Identify risk mitigation resources or controls to reduce the risks associated with the hazards.
  8. How to Implement / Who Will Implement: Describe how each control will be implemented and who is responsible for it.
  9. Residual Risk Level: After controls are implemented, determine the resulting probability, severity, and residual risk level.
  10. Overall Residual Risk Level: Assign an overall residual risk level that is equal to or greater than the highest level from the previous step.
  11. Supervision Plan and Recommended Course of Action: Identify specific tasks and responsibilities for supervisory personnel and recommend a course of action.
  12. Approval or Disapproval of Mission or Task: The risk approval authority will review and sign off on the mission or task.
  13. Risk Assessment Review: Conduct a review to ensure ongoing operations are safe, noting any changes needed.
  14. Feedback and Lessons Learned: Provide input on the effectiveness of risk controls and any recommendations for improvements.
  15. Additional Comments or Remarks: Add any other comments or information that may support the risk management process.

Obtain Answers on Dd 2977

  1. What is the purpose of the DD Form 2977?

    The DD Form 2977, also known as the Deliberate Risk Assessment Worksheet, is designed to identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with military missions or tasks. It serves as a structured approach to ensure that potential hazards are systematically evaluated and managed, enhancing safety and mission effectiveness.

  2. Who is responsible for completing the DD Form 2977?

    The form should be completed by the individual preparing the risk assessment for the specific mission or task. This includes providing their name, rank, duty title, unit, and contact information. It is crucial that this person has a clear understanding of the mission and the associated risks.

  3. What are the five steps of risk management outlined in the form?

    The five steps of risk management are:

    • Identify the hazards
    • Assess the hazards
    • Develop controls and make decisions
    • Implement controls
    • Supervise and evaluate

    Each step is essential for ensuring that risks are properly managed throughout the duration of the mission.

  4. How is the initial risk level determined?

    The initial risk level is determined by evaluating both the probability of a hazard occurring and the severity of its potential consequences. Using the risk assessment matrix provided in the form, individuals can assign a risk level based on these factors, which will guide further risk mitigation efforts.

  5. What should be included in the supervision plan and recommended course of action?

    The supervision plan should outline specific tasks and responsibilities for supervisory personnel. It must also include a recommended course of action based on the overall risk assessment. This ensures that all personnel are aware of their roles and the measures in place to manage risks effectively.

  6. What happens if the residual risk level rises above the approved level?

    If the residual risk level exceeds the previously approved level, operations must cease immediately. The appropriate approval authority should be contacted to reassess the situation and provide new guidance or approval for continued operations. This process is vital for maintaining safety and compliance.

Common mistakes

Filling out the DD 2977 form, known as the Deliberate Risk Assessment Worksheet, is a critical task that requires attention to detail. Many individuals make common mistakes that can compromise the integrity of the assessment. One prevalent error occurs in the Mission/Task Description section. Often, people provide vague descriptions instead of a concise and specific overview of the mission or task at hand. This lack of clarity can lead to misunderstandings about the risks involved.

Another frequent mistake is found in the Date section. Individuals sometimes fail to use the correct format (YYYYMMDD), which can create confusion and misalignment in record-keeping. Consistency in date formatting is essential for tracking and referencing assessments accurately.

In the Prepared By section, it is common for individuals to omit critical information such as their rank or duty title. This omission can hinder the ability to identify who conducted the assessment and may complicate follow-up actions. Each piece of information plays a role in establishing accountability.

Moreover, when specifying Hazards, people frequently list broad categories without detailing specific risks related to each subtask. This generalization can obscure the actual threats and lead to inadequate risk management strategies. Clear identification of hazards is vital for effective risk assessment.

Another mistake involves the Initial Risk Level. Individuals may incorrectly assess the probability and severity of hazards, leading to an inaccurate risk level. This miscalculation can result in either overestimating or underestimating the risks, which impacts decision-making and resource allocation.

In the Control section, some fail to identify appropriate risk mitigation strategies. Without clear controls, the assessment lacks actionable steps to address identified hazards. Each control should be tailored to the specific risks presented in the assessment.

Additionally, in the How to Implement / Who Will Implement section, individuals may neglect to specify who is responsible for implementing controls. This lack of clarity can lead to confusion during execution and accountability issues if risks materialize.

After controls are implemented, the Residual Risk Level must be accurately assessed. Some individuals mistakenly report the same risk level as the initial assessment, failing to recognize the impact of the implemented controls. This oversight can mislead decision-makers regarding the actual risk.

Lastly, in the Approval or Disapproval of Mission or Task section, individuals may not provide sufficient rationale for their decisions. Clear justification is essential for transparency and for understanding the basis of risk management decisions. Each of these mistakes can undermine the effectiveness of the risk assessment process, highlighting the importance of diligence and accuracy in completing the DD 2977 form.

Documents used along the form

The DD Form 2977, known as the Deliberate Risk Assessment Worksheet, is a vital document in risk management for military operations. Alongside this form, several other documents are commonly utilized to ensure comprehensive risk assessment and management. The following list outlines these forms and their purposes.

  • DD Form form 1750: This form is used to document the inventory of personal property. It helps in tracking items during deployments or transfers, ensuring accountability and proper management of resources.
  • OPORD (Operation Order): An OPORD provides detailed instructions for conducting military operations. It outlines the who, what, when, where, and why of a mission, serving as a foundational document for planning and execution.
  • DA Form 4856: This is a Developmental Counseling Form used to document counseling sessions between leaders and soldiers. It addresses performance, behavior, and development, which can be crucial in assessing risks related to personnel management.
  • DA Form 7281: Known as the Risk Assessment Matrix, this form helps evaluate and categorize risks associated with various tasks or missions. It provides a visual representation of potential hazards and their impact, aiding in decision-making.
  • DD Form 1391: This form is utilized for military construction project requests. It outlines the justification, scope, and cost estimates for proposed projects, ensuring that potential risks related to construction are considered.
  • AF Form 102: This form is used to document a request for a waiver or exception to policy. It allows personnel to formally request deviations from established guidelines, which may be necessary to mitigate specific risks during operations.

These documents work together to create a robust framework for managing risks in military operations. Each form serves a distinct purpose, but collectively they contribute to informed decision-making and enhanced safety during missions.

Similar forms

  • DD Form 2976 - Hazard Report: Similar to the DD 2977, this form is used to report hazards that could impact mission success. Both documents require a detailed description of the hazard and its potential consequences, emphasizing the importance of identifying risks early in the planning process.
  • DD Form 314 - Risk Management Plan: This form outlines a comprehensive risk management strategy for a specific operation. Like the DD 2977, it includes sections for identifying hazards, assessing risks, and implementing controls, ensuring a structured approach to managing potential threats.
  • DA Form 7566 - Risk Assessment Matrix: The DA Form 7566 serves as a tool to evaluate risk levels, similar to the risk assessment matrix found in the DD 2977. Both documents help decision-makers visualize the probability and severity of risks, aiding in informed decision-making.
  • DD Form 2978 - Risk Management Review: This form is utilized to review and validate risk assessments. It aligns with the DD 2977 by requiring a thorough evaluation of risks and controls, ensuring that all aspects of risk management are continuously monitored and updated.
  • DA Form 705 - Army Physical Fitness Test Scorecard: While focused on physical fitness, this form shares a common goal with the DD 2977: assessing readiness. Both documents require careful evaluation and documentation of performance, helping to ensure that personnel are prepared for their tasks and missions.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DD Form 2977, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Below is a list of things you should and shouldn't do to ensure the form is completed accurately and effectively.

  • Do provide a clear and concise description of the mission or task in the designated section.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank; ensure all sections are filled out completely.
  • Do use the risk assessment matrix to determine the initial risk level based on probability and severity.
  • Don't underestimate risks; always err on the side of caution when assessing hazards.
  • Do specify who will implement each control and how it will be executed.
  • Don't forget to include your contact information; this is essential for follow-up questions.
  • Do review the form for accuracy before submitting it for approval.
  • Don't ignore feedback from reviewers; their insights can improve future assessments.
  • Do document any lessons learned and recommendations for future missions.
  • Don't rush through the process; take your time to ensure thoroughness and clarity.

Misconceptions

There are several misconceptions surrounding the DD Form 2977, also known as the Deliberate Risk Assessment Worksheet. Understanding these misconceptions can help ensure the form is used effectively and correctly.

  • Misconception 1: The DD Form 2977 is only for high-risk missions.
  • This is not true. The form is designed for all missions, regardless of risk level. It helps assess potential hazards and implement controls to manage them.

  • Misconception 2: Completing the form is a one-time task.
  • In reality, the DD Form 2977 should be reviewed regularly, especially for ongoing operations. Conditions can change, and risks may need reassessment.

  • Misconception 3: Only officers need to fill out the DD Form 2977.
  • Any personnel involved in a mission or task can and should participate in completing the form. Input from various ranks and roles enhances the risk assessment.

  • Misconception 4: The risk assessment matrix is too complex to use.
  • The matrix is straightforward and designed for ease of use. It categorizes risks based on probability and severity, making it accessible for all users.

  • Misconception 5: The DD Form 2977 guarantees mission success.
  • While the form aids in identifying and mitigating risks, it does not guarantee success. It is a tool to enhance safety and preparedness.

  • Misconception 6: Once controls are implemented, the risk is eliminated.
  • Implementing controls reduces risk but does not eliminate it entirely. There will always be residual risk that needs to be monitored and managed.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the DD 2977 form, keep these key takeaways in mind:

  • Understand the Purpose: The DD 2977 is designed for conducting a deliberate risk assessment for missions or tasks. It helps identify potential hazards and manage risks effectively.
  • Follow the Steps: The risk management process includes five steps: identify hazards, assess hazards, develop controls, implement controls, and supervise and evaluate. Make sure to follow these steps closely.
  • Provide Detailed Information: Fill out each section thoroughly. Include specifics about the mission, the hazards, and the controls you plan to implement. This detail is crucial for effective risk management.
  • Regularly Review: Conduct risk assessment reviews periodically. If the risk level changes, operations may need to pause until the appropriate authority approves the new plan.