What is the purpose of Safety Assurance in a Safety Management System?

The purpose of Safety Assurance within a Safety Management System (SMS) is fundamentally tied to ensuring that safety practices are followed and that the systems in place are effective and continuously improving. This process involves conducting internal and external audits, which are instrumental in auditing the effectiveness of safety measures, identifying areas for improvement, and validating compliance with established safety standards.

Conducting these audits helps in gathering quantitative and qualitative data on safety performance. It ensures that the safety protocols and procedures are not only being adhered to but are functionally effective in mitigating risks. The information obtained through these audits is vital for making informed decisions regarding safety management and for enhancing the overall safety culture within the organization.

While creating operational policies, enforcing regulations, and managing public perception are important components of an organization’s approach to safety, they do not specifically encompass the verification and validation aspects inherent to Safety Assurance, where the focus is squarely on monitoring and enhancing safety through systematic evaluations.