IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

What is meant by 'duty of care' in the workplace?

1. Responsibility to ensure maximum productivity

2. Legal obligation to protect others from harm

3. Guidelines for workplace behavior

4. Advice to employees on job performance

The correct answer is: Legal obligation to protect others from harm

The term 'duty of care' in the workplace refers to a legal obligation that requires employers and employees to take reasonable measures to protect others from harm. This encompasses the responsibility to create a safe working environment, provide adequate training, and implement safety measures that minimize risks to both employees and third parties. This principle highlights the importance of proactive measures in health and safety management. For instance, it is essential for employers to assess potential hazards, implement necessary precautions, and ensure that staff are adequately trained to handle their responsibilities safely. Duty of care is an integral part of occupational health and safety legislation in various jurisdictions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe workplace for everyone involved. In contrast, the other options focus on aspects that are not directly related to the legal obligation to prevent harm. Promoting maximum productivity, guidelines for behavior, or advice on job performance do not inherently involve the obligation to protect individuals from injury or harm. Therefore, they do not capture the essence of what 'duty of care' encompasses in a workplace context.