A risk register is a project management tool for identifying, characterizing, addressing, and tracking multiple types of risks associated with a project. They are often used on major design and construction projects. Any type of risk applicable to a project can be tracked in a risk register, including safety, environmental, public relations, schedule, and budget. Risk registers are started during the planning stages of a project and are carried through design, construction, and project closeout.
I have always considered commissioning a risk management process and, as such, would not be surprised to see commissioning as a mitigation strategy for a risk named “poor system performance at the end of construction.” Let’s say the building owner knows from past project experience(s) that it is possible the new MEP systems will not function as needed when they are turned over to the owner for occupancy and operation. This would be a risk raised during the planning or design stage. Its likelihood would be assessed, and the seriousness of the consequences if the risk were to occur would be characterized.