This free risk register template gives you a structured spreadsheet for identifying, rating, and managing project risks. It includes risk identification and categorization fields, an impact rating scale from 1 to 4, a probability assessment column, a composite risk score calculation, a mitigation strategy section, a risk trigger identification field, and columns for responsible owner and current status. Available in Microsoft Excel.
A risk register is a project management tool that documents potential risks, evaluates their likelihood and impact, and records the actions planned to address each one. It serves as the central reference for risk oversight across the entire project lifecycle.
Documenting risks early creates space to plan mitigation before timelines compress and options narrow. The scoring system turns subjective concerns into comparable, ranked priorities that the team can act on. And a shared register gives project managers and leadership a consistent view of risk exposure without requiring constant status updates.
Frequently asked questions
Is this template free?
Yes. Completely free to download and use immediately.
Is it customizable?
Yes. Add or remove risk categories, adjust the scoring scale, or expand columns to fit your project structure.
What is the difference between a risk register and a risk assessment?
A risk assessment is the process of identifying and evaluating potential risks. A risk register is the document that records those risks and tracks the mitigation actions and owners assigned to each one.