Who holds the primary responsibility for safety in operations?

Operations management holds the primary responsibility for safety in operations because they directly oversee the daily activities and procedures that ensure the safety of the workplace. Their role involves identifying potential hazards, implementing safety protocols, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Operations managers have the authority and resources to make decisions that can enhance safety practices, allocate necessary training for employees, and foster a culture of safety within the organization.

While safety officers are crucial for developing policies and conducting training, their role supports the operations management whose decisions significantly influence on-the-ground safety practices. Human resources may play a part in ensuring that safety training and personnel policies support a safe work environment, but they do not manage operations directly. External auditors, on the other hand, are focused on assessing safety compliance and performance but do not have direct responsibility for day-to-day safety operations. Therefore, the responsibility fundamentally lies with operations management to ensure that safety is integrated into all operational processes.