What is the essential goal of a Safety Management System (SMS)?

The primary goal of a Safety Management System (SMS) is to enhance safety measures and reduce risks within an organization. An SMS is structured to systematically manage safety, focusing on identifying hazards, assessing risks, and implementing control measures to mitigate those risks. By fostering a culture of safety and integrating best practices, an SMS aims to create a safer environment for all personnel involved in operations.

While the other options touch upon aspects that may occur as a byproduct of a strong SMS, they do not capture its essential purpose. Reducing paperwork and improving employee relations might be beneficial outcomes, but they are not the core objectives of safety management. Similarly, increasing the speed of operations might conflict with the required thoroughness of safety protocols and procedures that ensure risks are effectively managed. Therefore, focusing on enhancing safety measures and reducing risks is the foundational aim of any effective Safety Management System.