In this episode of Risk! Engineers Talk Governance, due diligence engineers Richard Robinson and Gaye Francis discuss Delaying Decisions to avoid SFAIRP (So Far As Is Reasonably Practicable).

Their conversation covers:

• if lack of a decision is the result of ignorance and poor governance rather than deliberate strategy
• how the elimination option often gets tested far too late in the design process
• why briefing board members and their legal counsel on WHS legislation obligations is often what finally moves the needle
• the example the case of the Port of Auckland's Chief Executive serve as a reminder that commercial priorities don't shield senior decision makers from criminal consequences
• if you're going to delay or decline a safety decision, you must document your reasoning thoroughly, revisit it regularly as circumstances change, and understand that sitting on a decision is itself a courageous choice.

If you’d like us to cover a specific topic or have any feedback we’d love to hear from you. Email [email protected].

For further information on Richard and Gaye’s consulting work with R2A, head to https://www.r2a.com.au, where you’ll also find their booklets (store) and a sign-up for their quarterly newsletter to keep informed of their latest news and events. 

Gaye is also founder of Australian women’s safety workwear company Apto PPE https://www.aptoppe.com.au.