In the last few years there has been significant development of radiation therapy (RT)equipment with advanced imaging and delivery techniques, as well as treatment planningsystems. From this perspective, proactive approaches for risk assessment were identifiedas a powerful tool in modern radiation oncology. A multidisciplinary working group (WG)has been established in the framework of the Italian association for medical physics(AIFM) to promote the use of prospective approaches in the radiotherapy scientificcommunity. This paper describes the main actions carried out by the WG in order to collectinformation about the engagement of Italian medical physicists in the risk managementprocess, in reporting possible incidents in RT and in the procedures of collecting andanalysing near misses. In particular, the main scope of the study was to evaluate theactual level of experience in use of proactive risk analysis tools in modern RT by medicalphysicists. Finally, the measures implemented by the WG in order to promote the use ofsuch approaches, and consequently to contribute to enhancing safety and radiationprotection culture in radiation oncology are described.