What are the steps to reducing risk so far as is reasonably practicable (SFAIRP)?

This article explains the steps to reducing risk so far as is reasonably practicable (SFAIRP), including hazard identification, risk evaluation, control selection, and continuous improvement.

Mitigating risk to the extent that is reasonably practicable (SFAIRP) serves as a core tenet of occupational health and safety (OHS) and effective risk management. This principle compels organisations to adopt all reasonable measures to reduce risks, carefully weighing the potential dangers against the necessary effort, time, and cost involved in implementing such measures.

Key Principles of SFAIRP

1. Proportionality: The greater the risk, the more effort is required to reduce it.
2. Reasonableness: Controls must be feasible and not grossly disproportionate to the risk being mitigated.
3. Systematic Process: Decisions must be based on evidence, logical reasoning, and robust evaluation.

Steps to Reduce Risk SFAIRP

1. Identify Hazards

   • Conduct a thorough hazard identification process to pinpoint potential sources of harm in the workplace.

2. Assess the Risk

   • Evaluate the likelihood and consequence of harm for each hazard. Use tools like risk matrices or bow-tie analysis to determine risk levels.

3. Determine Control Measures

   • Apply the hierarchy of controls to select the most effective risk-reduction measures:
     1. Elimination: Remove the hazard entirely.
     2. Substitution: Replace the hazard with something less harmful.
     3. Engineering Controls: Physically isolate people from the hazard.
     4. Administrative Controls: Change how work is performed (e.g., training, procedures).
     5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Use protective gear as a last resort.

4. Evaluate Practicability

   • Assess whether the identified controls are reasonably practicable by considering:
     • The severity of the risk.
     • The likelihood of harm occurring.
     • The availability and feasibility of control measures.
     • The cost of implementation relative to the risk.

5. Prioritise and Implement Controls

   • Address higher-priority risks first by implementing the most effective and feasible controls.
   • Document the decisions made, including why certain controls were not implemented if deemed grossly disproportionate.

6. Verify Control Effectiveness

   • Monitor the performance of implemented controls to ensure they are functional, reliable, and effective.
   • Use techniques like inspections, audits, or testing.

7. Review and Revise

   • Regularly review risks and controls, especially after incidents, organisational changes, or new hazards arise.
   • Revise measures as necessary to maintain alignment with SFAIRP principles.

Documenting SFAIRP Decisions

• Keep records of:
  • Hazard identification and risk assessments.
  • Control measures considered and implemented.
  • Justifications for measures deemed impracticable.
  • Monitoring and review processes.

This documentation is critical to demonstrate compliance with SFAIRP obligations and defend decisions if scrutinised by regulators or in legal contexts.

Challenges in Applying SFAIRP

• Continuous Improvement: Maintaining the discipline to revisit and enhance controls over time.

Summary

To effectively reduce risk SFAIRP, organisations should adopt a clear and methodical approach. This involves systematically identifying hazards, assessing the associated risks, implementing appropriate control measures based on the hierarchy of controls, and continuously monitoring and refining these interventions. It is crucial to carefully consider the severity of each risk alongside the effort, time, and costs required for implementing controls, ensuring that all actions taken are both reasonable and defensible. The framework outlined in this article serves as a valuable resource for organisations striving to meet their SFAIRP obligations while promoting a safer workplace environment.