IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

Which principle is emphasized in the concept of ‘reasonable foreseeable risks’?

1. Ignoring potential hazards

2. Identifying and managing potential hazards

3. Employing strict liability on all hazards

4. Focusing solely on past incidents

The correct answer is: Identifying and managing potential hazards

The principle of 'reasonable foreseeable risks' highlights the importance of identifying and managing potential hazards that could cause harm or injury. This concept is rooted in the idea that organizations and individuals should take proactive measures to assess and address risks that could reasonably be predicted based on available information, experiences, or patterns. By focusing on identifying and managing these potential hazards, organizations can implement appropriate controls, safety measures, and training to mitigate risks effectively. This proactive approach is a cornerstone of health and safety management, allowing for a safer working environment. In contrast, neglecting potential hazards or solely focusing on past incidents fails to account for new or evolving risks in the workplace. Additionally, strict liability requires a blanket responsibility for all hazards without consideration for the reasonableness of risk management efforts, which does not align with the idea that risks should be anticipated and addressed based on their likelihood and potential impact. Thus, the essence of reasonable foreseeable risks centers on the active identification and management of hazards to ensure safety.