Unit 8
Risk Management

Overview

The current environment of managerialism and policing is framed by a narrow fixation with accountability, driven in part by cost efficiency and a commitment to risk minimization (Miller and Palmer, 2003). This position requires police managers to be aware of and committed to the concept of risk management. It also requires police leaders to identify issues of risk within their agencies and to implement proactive techniques in an effort to prevent and effectively respond to potential risk. Unit 8 explores the concept of risk management and how risk control mechanisms and practices can be developed.

Learning Objectives

When you have completed Unit 8, you should be able to achieve the following learning objectives.

1. Assess the application of early warning systems.
2. Assess the role of managers and supervisors in the development of risk management initiatives.
3. Recognize the value of accountability mechanisms within police organizations.