How should organizations react when evaluating control measures according to ISD principles?

Organizations should focus on implementing inherently safer controls whenever possible because this approach aligns with the fundamental principles of Inherently Safer Design (ISD). This strategy emphasizes reducing hazards at the source, thereby minimizing the reliance on additional controls that can introduce complexity, potential failures, and increase operational risks.

Inherently safer measures aim to eliminate or significantly reduce the potential for accidents by selecting processes or materials that are less hazardous. By prioritizing these controls, organizations can achieve a more resilient and safer operation, reducing the likelihood of incidents that could harm personnel, the environment, or the community.

Other approaches, such as favoring complex technical solutions or relying solely on administrative controls, may not effectively address the hazards since they may still leave underlying risk factors intact. Likewise, prioritizing rapid implementation without considering the inherent safety of the chosen measures may lead to decisions that compromise safety for speed, which could have long-term negative consequences. Therefore, focusing on inherently safer controls is the most prudent and effective approach in compliance with ISD principles.