IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

What does the iceberg principle suggest about organizations with effective safety management systems?

1. They tend to have more visible accidents

2. They experience reduced injuries and associated costs

3. They rely on past incidents to improve safety

4. They prioritize employee feedback over safety data

The correct answer is: They experience reduced injuries and associated costs

The iceberg principle highlights that what is visible in organizations often represents only a small part of the overall situation, especially concerning safety management. In the context of safety management systems, organizations that are effective in managing safety typically demonstrate a significant reduction in injuries and associated costs. This is because they actively engage in proactive safety measures and preventative strategies that address not only the visible accidents and issues but also the underlying factors that contribute to workplace hazards. By focusing on risk assessment, regular training, safety audits, and continuous improvement, these organizations can uncover and mitigate risks that may not have manifested as visible incidents yet. This comprehensive approach leads to a safer work environment and ultimately results in fewer injuries, lower medical and compensation costs, and improved morale among employees. In contrast, organizations that might rely on past incidents or prioritize employee feedback without a structured system could overlook the broader implications of safety management, which may not yield the same positive outcomes in terms of reducing injuries and costs.