Protecting People, Property, and Performance

Safety and Risk Management (SRM) is the cornerstone of Integrated Facilities Management. It’s not just a department—it’s a mindset. While no environment can be guaranteed 100% safe, SRM ensures we make it as safe as possible for everyone on-site, from staff and visitors to contractors and the surrounding community.

What Is SRM?

SRM is a continuous, systematic process that never stops. It’s built on:

• Organizational goals
• Policy and structure
• Planning and accountability
• Safe operating procedures
• Continuous improvement

Safety is the goal. Risk management is how we get there.

Core SRM Functions

• 🔍 Hazard Identification: Constant evaluation of unsafe conditions and practices
• ⚠️ Hazard Classification:
  • Avoidable: Can be eliminated entirely
  • Unavoidable: Must be mitigated due to operational necessity
• 🧠 Root Cause Analysis: Identify contributing factors and eliminate or circumvent them
• 📊 Risk Assessment: Evaluate potential effects on people, property, and the environment
• 📋 Protocol Development: Create guidelines to manage or eliminate risks
• 🛡️ Exposure Management:
  • Eliminate hazards
  • Mitigate unavoidable risks
  • Buffer effects of exposure
  • Prepare emergency response plans

Real-World Example

Flying is hazardous—but it’s also the purpose of an aircraft. SRM focuses on making flying safe enough that the risk of crashing is negligible compared to the convenience of air travel. That’s the essence of risk management.

Regulatory Compliance

Every workplace policy must meet regulatory standards—especially those related to safety. Agencies to consider include:

• OSHA
• EPA
• NFPA
• FDA
• JCAHO

And don’t forget state, county, and municipal regulations. Most publish their requirements online for free or by subscription.

Training and Documentation

• 📚 Ongoing training is legally required
• 📝 All safety-related policies and procedures must be documented
• 🔁 Policies must be tested, improved, and maintained as best practices

SRM requires as much documentation as it does action. PSC has developed manuals for:

• Safety Management
• Life Safety Management
• Hazardous Materials Management

These are governed, audited, and updated under SRM protocols.

Tools and Technology

SRM is complex—but manageable with the right tools. PSC recommends using top-tier software or modules within:

• Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS)
• Integrated Workplace Management Systems (IWMS)
• Human Resource Management Systems (HRMS)

If your team lacks the expertise to build a functioning SRM program, We can help.