The document discusses the issue of creating a false sense of safety through risk assessment and management practices that aim to reduce anxiety rather than ensure actual safety. It argues that such practices can lead organizations to believe risks are acceptable when they are in fact still unacceptable, providing examples like the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The document advocates avoiding false assurance by not ignoring warning signs and focusing on true safety over just reducing anxiety.
13. Risk assessment creates assurance
Safety Science Innovation Lab
“Risk is
Acceptable”
Original Belief
“Risk is
Unacceptable”
Assessment
Activity
Final belief
“Risk is
Acceptable”
“Risk is
unacceptable”