What is the first step in reviewing a safety program?

Identifying the problem is the foundational step in reviewing a safety program. This step is crucial because it allows safety professionals to understand the specific risks, hazards, or deficiencies that need to be addressed within the current program. By clearly defining the problem, it is possible to set the stage for a comprehensive analysis of the safety program's effectiveness and to establish a framework for improvement.

When the problem is identified, it becomes easier to gather relevant data and develop objectives based on the actual issues at hand. This approach ensures that safety initiatives are targeted and relevant, which increases the chances of successful implementation and outcome evaluation. Other steps, such as developing reasonable objectives or implementing the program, depend on a clear understanding of the underlying problems to ensure that resources are allocated effectively and that solutions address the root cause of safety concerns.