What should you apply when safety guidance is not readily available for assessing appropriate safeguards?

When safety guidance is not readily available for assessing appropriate safeguards, applying Operational Risk Management (ORM) is crucial. ORM is a systematic process that helps individuals and organizations identify potential hazards and evaluate the risks associated with their operations. It involves analyzing the likelihood of a risk occurring and the potential consequences, allowing for informed decision-making to minimize those risks effectively.

ORM enables personnel to prioritize risks and implement controls based on their assessment, thus enhancing safety even in the absence of specific guidance. This approach encourages proactive risk analysis, leading to the development of strategies that can mitigate potential issues before they arise, thereby ensuring the safety of personnel and resources.

In contrast, a Risk Management Plan is generally broader and may involve more extensive documentation and processes, making it less suitable for immediate decision-making in the absence of specific safety guidance. An Emergency Action Plan is focused on responding to emergencies rather than ongoing risk assessment, while a Safety Management System takes a more structured approach to managing safety processes rather than addressing immediate unidentified risks.