ABSTRACT

An individual's perception of safe can be one of expectation rather than confirmation. In some situations, the very real presence of a harmful consequence is considered a risk worth taking in order to realize a better—or more “safe”—alternative. This can be seen in the dangerous journeys taken by people fleeing war-torn or oppressive countries and regimes in order to establish better lives in another country. The term “health and safety” was relatively new at the time the act came into being; up to that point, relevant acts had referred variously to “safety” or “welfare”. Today, of course, the term health and safety, and its ideals, has become de rigueur—perhaps even something of a cliche. All sectors of industry have similar issues which are readily relatable to the points raised in the Hackitt report. Some of these issues are: cost, design, engagement, procurement, and accountability.