What are the main steps involved in developing a Safety Management System?

The main steps involved in developing a Safety Management System revolve around the fundamental processes that ensure a systematic approach to managing safety within an organization. Defining policies, establishing procedures, and implementing controls represent a comprehensive framework for creating an effective Safety Management System.

Defining policies is crucial because it sets the direction and intent of the organization's commitment to safety. Policies communicate the importance of safety to all employees and establish the foundational values that govern safety practices.

Establishing procedures is the next step, which translates those policies into actionable processes. Procedures provide clear instructions on how to carry out tasks safely and efficiently, ensuring that employees know what is expected of them in various situations.

Implementing controls involves putting these procedures into practice. This includes incorporating engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment to mitigate risks associated with workplace hazards. Effective implementation ensures that the policies and procedures have a tangible impact on workplace safety.

The other options, while they may play a role in safety management, do not encapsulate the core systematic steps necessary to develop a Safety Management System. Identifying safety regulations and standards is important for compliance but is not a direct step in the development process. Conducting external audits is a method of evaluating the effectiveness of a Safety Management System after it has been