The
system safety concept calls for a
risk management strategy based on identification, analysis of
hazards and application of remedial controls using a systems-based approach. This is different from traditional safety strategies which rely on control of conditions and causes of an accident based either on the
Epidemiological analysis or as a result of investigation of individual past accidents. The concept of system safety is useful in demonstrating adequacy of technologies when difficulties are faced with probabilistic
risk analysis. The underlying principle is one of
synergy: a whole is more than sum of its parts. Systems-based approach to
safety requires the application of scientific, technical and managerial skills to hazard identification,
hazard analysis, and elimination, control, or management of hazards throughout the life-cycle of a system, program, project or an activity or a product. "
Hazop" is one of several techniques available for identification of hazards.