Chapter-Four

Safety and Risk in Engineering

Lecture-13, 14

Synopsis:

1. Introduction 8. Safety Obligation of an Engineer

2. Concept of Safety in Engineering 9. Safety Checklist for an Engineer
3. Understanding Risk in Engineering 10. Safety in Islamic Perspective
4. Types of Risks In Engineering 11. Conclusion
5. Risk Assessment and Management 12. Model Questions
6. Role of Engineers in Safety Issues
7. Code of Ethics on Safety

Learning Outcomes:

⮚ Understand the Concepts of Safety and Risk in Engineering

⮚ Analyze the Role of Engineers in Ensuring Safety
⮚ Interpret the Code of Ethics Related to Safety
⮚ Identify and Address Conflicts of Interest in Engineering
⮚ Apply Safety Checklists and Obligations in Engineering Practice
⮚ Evaluate Safety from an Islamic Perspective

1. Introduction:
Safety is a fundamental concern in engineering, as engineers are responsible for
designing, constructing, and maintaining systems that impact public health,
environmental sustainability, and human well-being. This chapter explores the
concept of safety and risk, highlighting the ethical and professional obligations of
engineers in ensuring safety in their work. The discussion begins with an overview
of safety and risk in engineering, emphasizing the importance of risk assessment
and mitigation strategies. In regard to risk management engineers must identify
potential risks associated with their projects, evaluate their likelihood and impact,
and implement strategies to mitigate them. 1 The role of engineers in addressing
safety issues is then examined, followed by an exploration of codes of ethics that
guide engineers in making responsible decisions regarding safety. Furthermore, the
chapter delves into the safety obligations of engineers, outlining their duty to
protect the public, employees, and the environment. A safety checklist is also
provided to help engineers systematically evaluate safety measures in their
projects. In addition to general engineering ethics, the chapter introduces the
Islamic perspective on safety, discussing how Islamic principles align with ethical
engineering practices. The discussion then shifts to conflicts of interest in the
engineering profession, identifying different types, including moonlighting and
explaining how they can compromise ethical responsibilities and safety standards.
By the end of this chapter, readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of
safety in engineering, ethical obligations, and the potential risks associated with
conflicts of interest. The chapter concludes with model questions to reinforce key
concepts and encourage critical thinking on safety and risk management in
engineering.
2. Concept of Safety in Engineering
Safety in engineering refers to the measures and practices designed to protect
individuals, property, and the environment from harm. This involves adhering to
safety standards, conducting regular inspections, and implementing preventive
measures to avoid accidents and failures. Effective safety practices are essential for
maintaining operational integrity and ensuring that engineering systems and
processes are safe for use. It encompasses a proactive approach to preventing
harm through various measures:
i. Design for Safety: Incorporates safety features and redundancies into
engineering designs to prevent accidents. This includes fail-safe mechanisms,
safety barriers, and robust materials.
ii. Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to standards and regulations (e.g., OSHA, ISO)
ensures that safety measures meet established guidelines and are consistently
applied.
iii. Safety Culture: Fostering a culture where safety is prioritized involves training,
clear communication, and continuous improvement practices.
3. Understanding Risk in Engineering

1
Dorfman, M. S., & Cather, D. A. (2014). Introduction to Risk Management and Insurance. Pearson, pp. 45-72.
Risk refers to the potential for harm or damage resulting from uncertainties or
hazards associated with engineering projects. In engineering, risk is commonly
defined as the combination of the probability of an adverse event occurring and
the severity of its consequences. For example, in engineering design, safety
considerations begin with identifying potential hazards, assessing the likelihood of
their occurrence, and evaluating the severity of their outcomes. Additionally, the
International Organization for Standardization (ISO) defines risk as the "effect of
uncertainty on objectives," highlighting that risk can pertain to both negative and
positive deviations from expected outcomes. 2
4. Types of Risks In Engineering
In engineering, various types of risks can significantly impact project outcomes,
safety, and environmental sustainability. Below is a discussion of key risk
categories, each accompanied by relevant references:

4.1Operational Risks (e.g., equipment failure)

Operational risks pertain to the potential for failures in systems, processes, or
equipment that can disrupt operations. Equipment failure is a primary concern, as
it can lead to production downtime, increased maintenance costs, and safety
hazards. Factors contributing to equipment failure include improper operation, lack
of preventive maintenance, and inadequate monitoring. Implementing regular
inspections and a comprehensive maintenance program can mitigate these risks. 3
4.2Environmental Risks (e.g., pollution, climate impact)
Environmental risks involve the potential for engineering activities to harm the
environment, such as through pollution or contributions to climate change. For
instance, the extraction and use of fossil fuels for electricity, heat, and
transportation are significant contributors to climate change and pollution.
Environmental engineers work to mitigate these impacts by developing sustainable
solutions and promoting practices that protect natural resources.4

2
Rudolph Frederick Stapelberg, Safety and Risk in Engineering Design, (2009).. In: Handbook of Reliability,
Availability, Maintainability and Safety in Engineering Design. Springer, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-
84800-175-6_5
3
Modarres, M., Kaminskiy, M., & Krivtsov, V. (2016). Reliability Engineering and Risk Analysis: A Practical Guide (3rd
ed.). CRC Press; Limble, Equipment Failure Causes, Risks, and How to Avoid Them, See at:
https://limblecmms.com/blog/equipment-failure/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
4
Renn, O. (2008). Risk Governance: Coping with Uncertainty in a Complex World. Earthscan: Marcus Schultz-Bergin,
Engineering & the Environment-The Primacy of the Public, May 1, 2021,Pressbooks, See at:
4.3Health and Safety Risks (e.g., worker injuries)
Health and safety risks in engineering encompass potential hazards that could lead
to worker injuries. Common risks include exposure to moving machinery parts,
handling hazardous materials, and unsafe working conditions. To manage these
risks, it's essential to implement proper machine guarding, provide comprehensive
employee training, and establish safety protocols such as lockout-tagout (LOTO)
procedures. 5
4.4Project Risks (e.g., cost overruns, delays)
Project risks refer to uncertainties that can lead to deviations from the planned
project scope, schedule, or budget. Common issues include cost overruns and
delays, often resulting from improper risk management, estimation errors,
uncontrolled scope changes, and performance failures. Effective risk management
involves proactive identification, assessment, and mitigation of potential issues to
minimize their impact on project outcomes. 6
5. Risk Assessment and Management
Risk management involves identifying, analyzing, and mitigating risks to minimize
their impact.
i. Risk Identification: Determining potential hazards and vulnerabilities in a
system or process.
ii. Risk Assessment: Evaluating the likelihood and severity of identified risks. It
involves qualitative vs. quantitative risk assessment using different tools like
HAZOP (Hazard and Operability Study), FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects
Analysis), Fault Tree Analysis etc.
iii. Risk Mitigation: Developing and implementing strategies to reduce or
eliminate risks, such as design changes, safety protocols, and emergency
response plans.7
https://pressbooks.ulib.csuohio.edu/principles-of-engineering-ethics/chapter/engineering-the-
environment/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
5
Wang, J. X. (2000). What Every Engineer Should Know About Risk Engineering and Management. CRC Press; HSE-
NETWORK, Managing Health and Safety Risks in Engineering, HSE-NETWORK.COM, 29th Nov, 2023, See
at:https://www.hse-network.com/managing-health-and-safety-risks-in-engineering/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
6
Kendrick, T. (2015). Identifying and Managing Project Risk: Essential Tools for Failure-Proofing Your Project (3rd
ed.). AMACOM; ACTITIME, 5 Primary Causes of Cost Overruns & Ways to Prevent Them, ACTITIME.COM,
January22, 2025, See at: https://www.actitime.com/project-cost-management/causes-of-cost-
overruns?utm_source=chatgpt.com
7
Nancy Leveson, Engineering a Safer World: Systems Thinking Applied to Safety, MIT Press, 2011, pp. 15-45
 iv. Risk Communication: Ensuring that all stakeholders are aware of risks and
mitigation strategies, fostering a transparent approach to managing potential
issues.
6. Role of Engineer in Safety Issues
Engineers play a critical role in ensuring the safety of the products, processes, and
systems they design, develop, and maintain. Their responsibility goes beyond just
adhering to technical requirements; it includes addressing potential hazards,
minimizing risks, and ensuring that safety protocols are embedded in every phase
of the engineering process. Here is the discussion on how engineers handle safety
issues:
6.1 Design for Safety: Engineers must anticipate potential safety issues during the
design phase of a project. This involves incorporating fail-safe mechanisms,
designing redundant systems, and using materials that enhance safety. The goal
is to create designs that inherently minimize the risk of failure or harm. 8
Example: In the aerospace industry, engineers design aircraft with multiple
backup systems for critical functions like navigation and control. If one system
fails, the backup ensures the safety of the passengers and crew.
6.2 Risk Assessment and Hazard Analysis: Engineers use risk assessment tools to
evaluate the likelihood and consequences of potential failures. Methods like
Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Hazard and Operability Studies
(HAZOP) help identify weak points in a system before they cause harm.9
Example: In chemical engineering, hazard analysis is used to prevent accidents
such as leaks or explosions in industrial plants by identifying critical points
where failures are likely to occur.
6.3 Ethical Responsibility: Engineers have a moral and ethical responsibility to
prioritize public safety over cost-cutting measures or pressure to meet
deadlines. This responsibility is often formalized in engineering codes of ethics,
which emphasize the protection of human life and welfare. 10 Example: The
National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) Code of Ethics states that
engineers shall hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public.

8
Louis J. Gullo and Jack Dixon, Design for Safety, Wiley, 2018, pp.45-68.
9
Martin Loosemore, John Raftery, Charles Reilly, and David Higgon, Engineering Risk Management, Routledge, 2006,
pp.112-134
10
Charles E. Harris Jr., Michael S. Pritchard, and Michael J. Rabins, Engineering Ethics: Concepts and Cases, Cengage
Learning, 2018, Pages: 52-71
6.4 Regulatory Compliance: Engineers must ensure that their designs comply with
relevant safety standards and regulations (e.g., Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) guidelines, ISO safety standards). Compliance helps
avoid legal issues and ensures the system meets industry safety benchmarks. 11
Example: In civil engineering, buildings must adhere to structural safety codes
to withstand natural disasters like earthquakes or storms, ensuring the safety
of occupants.
6.5 Continuous Improvement: Engineers are responsible for continuously
improving safety standards. This may involve analyzing accidents or failures to
prevent future occurrences, upgrading outdated safety measures, or integrating
new technologies to enhance safety. 12 Example: In the automotive industry,
crash tests and data analysis from real-world accidents help engineers design
safer vehicles by improving seatbelts, airbags, and crumple zones.
6.6 Safety Training and Education: Engineers are responsible for ensuring that all
personnel involved in a project, including operators and maintenance workers,
receive adequate safety training. This includes educating staff on how to safely
operate equipment, handle hazardous materials, and follow safety protocols. 13
Example: In the construction industry, engineers provide training on the proper
use of personal protective equipment (PPE), scaffolding safety, and emergency
response procedures.
6.7 Failure Analysis and Incident Investigation: When accidents or failures occur,
engineers conduct a thorough analysis to determine the root cause. By
understanding what went wrong, they can design solutions to prevent similar
incidents in the future. This process is crucial for improving safety standards
across industries. 14 Example: In mechanical engineering, failure analysis of
components like engines or turbines helps engineers redesign parts to improve
durability and prevent accidents caused by mechanical failure.
6.8 Human Factors Engineering: Engineers must consider how human interaction
with machines, systems, or environments affects safety. This involves designing
user-friendly interfaces, minimizing the likelihood of human error, and ensuring

11
Richard E. Fairley, Engineering Safety, McGraw-Hill, 2014, Pages: 89-104.
12
Hassall, M. (2023). Fundamentals of Risk Management for Process Industry Engineers. Elsevier. pages 67-89.
13
Roger L. Brauer, Safety and Health for Engineers, Wiley,2016, Pages: 225-240
14
David G. E. Harlow. Failure Analysis in Engineering Applications, CRC Press, 2016, Pages: 105-127
 that systems are intuitive and easy to use. 15 Example: In medical device
engineering, user-centered designs ensure that healthcare professionals can
operate machines (like ventilators or infusion pumps) safely and efficiently,
reducing the chances of errors.
6.9 Safety in the Supply Chain: Engineers also ensure that safety considerations
extend to the entire supply chain. This includes selecting materials and
components that meet safety standards, verifying supplier certifications, and
conducting audits to ensure compliance with safety regulations. 16 Example: In
electronics engineering, choosing flame-retardant materials for manufacturing
consumer electronics helps minimize fire risks, ensuring the safety of end-users.
6.10 Sustainability and Environmental Safety: Engineers are increasingly
responsible for ensuring that their designs and processes not only protect
human safety but also minimize environmental harm. Sustainable engineering
practices involve reducing waste, using renewable resources, and preventing
pollution, all of which contribute to broader safety goals. 17 Example: In
environmental engineering, sustainable waste management systems are
designed to minimize the release of hazardous substances into the
environment, protecting both ecosystems and public health.
7. Code of Ethics on Safety
In the engineering profession, the "Code of Ethics" concerning safety is one of the
central pillars, as engineers have a duty to ensure that their designs, constructions,
and operations do not pose risks to human life, the environment, or property. The
emphasis is on prioritizing public safety, even when it conflicts with other interests
like cost efficiency or project deadlines. This ethical obligation is rooted in the
professional responsibility of engineers to minimize harm and ensure safety in all
aspects of their work.18
7.1Key Principles of the Code of Ethics on Safety in Engineering:

15
Mark S. Sanders and Ernest J. McCormick, Human Factors in Engineering and Design, McGraw-Hill,2013, Pages:
147-168.
16
Donald Waters, Supply Chain Risk Management: Vulnerability and Resilience in Logistics, Kogan Page, 2011, Pp.
87-104.
17
David T. Allen and David R. Shonnard, Sustainable Engineering: Concepts, Design and Case Studies, Pearson, 2011,
Pages: 67-85.
18
Harris, Charles E., Pritchard, Michael S., & Rabins, Michael J. (2009). Engineering Ethics: Concepts and Cases (4th
ed.). Cengage Learning. Page: 81-85.
 i. Hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public: Engineers are
required to make decisions that prioritize public safety over client interests
or personal gain.
ii. Design for safety and sustainability: Engineers must incorporate safety
features into their designs and conduct thorough risk assessments to
minimize hazards.
iii. Communicate safety concerns: If an engineer is aware of any potential
safety risks, they must inform relevant parties and, if necessary, disclose
these risks to authorities.
iv. Adherence to standards and regulations: Engineers must comply with
applicable safety regulations and guidelines during all phases of their work.
v. Continuous professional development: Engineers must keep themselves
informed of new safety technologies and practices to ensure their work
remains safe and up-to-date.19
7.2 Key Characteristics of the Code of Ethics on Safety in Engineering: 20
1. Primacy of Public Safety: Engineers must place the health, safety, and
welfare of the public as their highest priority. This means making decisions
that prevent harm even when it may conflict with the interests of their
employer or client. Engineers are obligated to stop any project or process
that could endanger the public.
2. Risk Management and Minimization: Engineers are responsible for
identifying, assessing, and minimizing risks in all phases of their work, from
design to implementation. This involves rigorous adherence to safety
standards and continuous improvement to minimize hazards.
3. Compliance with Safety Regulations and Standards: Engineers must ensure
that their work complies with all applicable laws, regulations, and codes
related to safety. They must stay informed about current standards and
incorporate them into their professional practice.
4. Accountability and Transparency: Engineers are ethically bound to report
any safety concerns to their employers, clients, and regulatory bodies. If

19
Bucknam, Ronald E. (2003). Professional Engineering Practice: Ethical Aspects. Global Professional Publishing.
Page: 47-53
20
Seebauer, Edmund G., & Barry, Robert L. (2001). Fundamentals of Engineering Ethics. Oxford University Press.
pages 102-107
 necessary, they should take steps to inform the public and relevant
authorities if a safety issue cannot be resolved internally.
5. Ethical Decision-Making in Conflict Situations: When safety conflicts arise
between public welfare and project goals (such as financial pressures),
engineers must act in favor of public safety. This ethical characteristic
requires engineers to remain independent and objective in their decision-
making processes.
6. Continuous Learning and Professional Competence: Engineers must
continually update their knowledge and skills, especially in relation to safety
technologies and best practices. Professional competence in the latest safety
techniques is essential to ensuring that engineering work does not become
outdated or dangerous.21
7. Duty to Report Unethical or Unsafe Practices: Engineers are ethically
obligated to report instances where safety standards are compromised or
neglected. This includes whistle blowing when employers, clients, or
colleagues engage in actions that could endanger the public or violate safety
regulations. Silence in the face of unsafe practices is considered unethical.
8. Prevention of Negligence: Engineers must avoid negligence by thoroughly
checking their designs, calculations, and implementations to ensure that
they are free of errors that could pose safety risks. Negligence, in any form,
is a breach of ethical conduct because it can lead to accidents or unsafe
conditions.
9. Holistic Safety Considerations: Engineers are expected to consider both
immediate and long-term safety implications. They should look beyond the
present conditions and ensure that their projects remain safe and
sustainable over time. This may involve anticipating future hazards, potential
failures, and evolving conditions.
10. Proactive Safety Leadership: Engineers are often seen as leaders in their
respective fields. As such, they have the responsibility to advocate for safety
improvements, influence organizational safety culture, and lead efforts to
establish or upgrade safety protocols and standards within their teams,
organizations, or industries. 22

21
Martin, Mike W., & Schinzinger, Roland. (2005). Ethics in Engineering (4th ed.). McGraw-Hill. pages 54-61
22
Harris, Charles E., Pritchard, Michael S., & Rabins, Michael J. (2009). Engineering Ethics: Concepts and Cases (4th
ed.). Cengage Learning.Page: 88-94
 11.Ethical Use of Technology: Engineers must ensure that the technologies they
use and develop are safe for public use. This involves critically evaluating how
new technologies could affect safety and taking steps to mitigate potential
risks. Engineers must refrain from using technology that compromises safety
for the sake of convenience or profit.
12.Fairness and Equity in Safety Decisions: When making safety decisions,
engineers must consider the fairness of their actions. This means ensuring
that no particular group (e.g., a community, workers, or future generations)
is disproportionately exposed to safety risks. Ethical engineering involves
equitable treatment when assessing safety risks and benefits.
13. Informed Consent: In projects where risk is unavoidable, engineers have a
responsibility to ensure that all affected parties are fully informed about the
risks and give their consent. This is crucial in situations where potential
hazards, though minimal, could affect public safety or welfare. 23
8. Safety Obligation of an Engineer
The safety obligation of an engineer is a fundamental aspect of professional ethics,
emphasizing the engineer’s duty to prioritize the safety, health, and welfare of the
public in all their professional activities. This responsibility extends to designing
systems, structures, and processes that minimize risk, adhering to safety
regulations, and communicating potential hazards when necessary. Key Safety
Obligations of an Engineer:
8.1 Prioritizing Public Safety: Engineers must ensure that their designs and
practices protect the public from harm. This involves creating solutions that
prevent accidents, failures, or unsafe conditions.
8.2 Compliance with Safety Standards: Engineers are required to follow applicable
safety codes, laws, and regulations. These standards provide guidelines to
ensure safety in engineering practices and the operation of systems.
8.3 Identifying and Mitigating Risks: Engineers must conduct risk assessments to
identify potential hazards and implement measures to minimize them. This
proactive approach helps prevent accidents and ensures the safety of the
public, workers, and the environment.

23
Vesilind, P. Aarne, & Gunn, Alastair S. (1998). Engineering Ethics and the Environment. Cambridge University Press.
Pages 42-49
8.4 Reporting Unsafe Practices: Engineers have an ethical obligation to report
unsafe conditions or practices that could endanger the public or environment.
If they encounter any negligence or violations of safety standards, they must
take action by informing supervisors, regulatory bodies, or even the public if
necessary.
8.5 Continuous Learning: Engineers must stay updated on advances in safety
technology and practices to ensure their knowledge remains current and
applicable to their work. This helps them to continually apply the best possible
safety measures. 24
8.6 Designing for Failure Prevention: Engineers must incorporate fail-safe
mechanisms and redundancy into their designs. This ensures that even in the
event of failure, the system or structure will either prevent catastrophic
outcomes or minimize the harm caused.
8.7 Ethical Responsibility to Refuse Compromised Safety: Engineers are obligated
to reject projects or refuse to follow directives if those projects or decisions
compromise safety. If pressured to cut corners, engineers must uphold ethical
standards by prioritizing public welfare over profitability or deadlines.
8.8 Duty to Educate and Inform: Engineers must inform clients, colleagues, and the
public about potential safety risks and the necessary precautions. This includes
providing clear, understandable information to non-experts about any dangers
associated with a project or product.
8.9 Proactive Hazard Identification: Engineers should actively look for potential
hazards in all phases of design, construction, and operation. This includes
anticipating not only obvious risks but also less apparent ones, such as those
that might emerge over time or in unusual operating conditions
8.10 Social and Environmental Safety: Engineers must take into account the
broader impact of their work on society and the environment. Projects should
be designed not only to protect human life but also to avoid environmental
damage that could indirectly affect public safety (e.g., pollution, degradation of
natural resources).25
9. Safety Checklist for an Engineer

24
Martin, Mike W., & Schinzinger, Roland. (2005). Ethics in Engineering (4th ed.). McGraw-Hill. pages 54-61
25
Seebauer, Edmund G., & Barry, Robert L. (2001). Fundamentals of Engineering Ethics. Oxford University Press.
pages 102-107
A Safety Checklist for Engineers is essential to ensure that all safety protocols are
considered and implemented throughout the project lifecycle, from design to
operation. This checklist can help engineers identify potential risks and mitigate
hazards in their work. Here’s a comprehensive checklist: 26
9.1Project Planning and Design Stage
1.1Risk Assessment Conducted: Have you performed a thorough risk analysis for
all potential hazards?
1.2Compliance with Safety Standards: Are your designs compliant with relevant
safety regulations, standards, and codes (e.g., OSHA, ISO, or local regulations)?
1.3Incorporation of Fail-Safe Features: Have you included redundancy and fail-safe
mechanisms in your design?
1.4Load and Stress Analysis: Are the design calculations for loads, stresses, and
other forces accurate to ensure structural integrity?
1.5Environmental Impact Consideration: Have you assessed the environmental
impact of your design, ensuring minimal harm to the ecosystem?
9.2Materials and Equipment Selection
1.1Safety of Materials: Are the materials used safe for the intended application
(e.g., fire-resistant, non-toxic)?
1.2Equipment Suitability: Are the machines and tools selected fit for purpose and
in compliance with safety standards?
1.3Supplier Credentials Checked: Have you verified the safety certifications and
standards compliance of all materials and equipment suppliers?
9.3Construction/Installation Phase
1.1 Construction Safety Plan in Place: Is there a site-specific safety plan that
addresses potential hazards during the construction phase?
1.2 PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) Compliance: Are workers equipped with
the appropriate PPE (e.g., helmets, gloves, goggles)?
1.3Training Provided: Have all workers received safety training relevant to their
tasks and the specific hazards of the project?
1.4Hazardous Material Handling: Is there a plan for safe handling and disposal of
hazardous materials?
1.5Site Inspection Conducted: Have you conducted regular safety inspections of
the construction site?
26
Harris, Charles E., Pritchard, Michael S., & Rabins, Michael J. (2009). Engineering Ethics: Concepts and Cases (4th
ed.). Cengage Learning.Page: 88-94
9.4Testing and Commissioning
1.1 Pre-operational Testing: Have you conducted tests to verify the safety and
functionality of all components before operation?
1.2 Emergency Shutdown Procedures: Are emergency shutdown protocols in
place, tested, and easily accessible?
1.3 System Redundancy Tested: Have the fail-safe and backup systems been tested
under failure conditions?27
9.5Operation and Maintenance
1.1Safety Instructions Available: Have you provided clear, accessible safety
instructions for operators and maintenance personnel?
1.2Regular Maintenance Schedule: Is there a maintenance schedule in place to
prevent breakdowns and safety failures?
1.3Monitoring for Wear and Tear: Are procedures established for monitoring
equipment and infrastructure for signs of wear, fatigue, or damage?
1.4Up-to-date Safety Inspections: Are routine safety inspections being conducted
and documented?
9.6Documentation and Reporting
1.1Safety Documentation: Are all safety procedures, risk assessments, and training
programs fully documented?
1.2Incident Reporting System: Is there a system for reporting safety incidents, near
misses, and safety breaches?
1.3Regulatory Compliance Records: Are all necessary permits and regulatory
documents up to date?
9.7Communication and Emergency Preparedness
1.1Emergency Response Plan: Is an emergency response plan in place, and is it
communicated to all relevant parties?
1.2Emergency Equipment Availability: Are first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and
other emergency tools readily available and maintained?
1.3Evacuation Routes and Plans: Are clear evacuation routes marked, and have
they been communicated to everyone on-site?
1.4Safety Drills Conducted: Are regular safety drills (e.g., fire or chemical spill drills)
conducted to ensure preparedness?
27
Seebauer, Edmund G., & Barry, Robert L. (2001). Fundamentals of Engineering Ethics. Oxford University Press.
pages 102-107
9.8Post-Completion Monitoring and Follow-up
1.1Post-Construction Review: Have you conducted a post-project safety review to
ensure that all systems are performing as expected?
1.2Ongoing Risk Management: Is there a plan for the ongoing identification and
mitigation of risks during the operation phase?
1.3User Feedback Considered: Are mechanisms in place to collect and act on user
or operator feedback regarding safety concerns? 28

10. Safety in Islamic Perspective

Safety management in an Islamic perspective integrates the ethical and moral
teachings of Islam with professional responsibility, emphasizing the protection of
life, property, and the environment. In Islam, safety is not just a professional
obligation but a religious duty grounded in the principles of preserving human
welfare (Maṣlaḥah) and preventing harm (Darar). This approach requires
professionals, including engineers, to ensure that their work upholds justice,
promotes well-being, and prevents harm to society. Key Principles of Safety
Management in Islamic Perspective: 29
10.1 Preservation of Life (Hifz al-Nafs):
One of the five essential objectives of Shariah (Maqasid al-Shariah) is the
protection and preservation of human life. Engineers and professionals are
required to take every necessary step to avoid harm, injuries, or loss of life in their
work. Neglecting safety measures contradicts the Islamic duty of safeguarding
human life.
10.2 Prevention of Harm (Darar):
Islam prohibits causing harm to oneself or others (as per the hadith, "There should
be neither harming nor reciprocating harm". 30 Safety management must,
therefore, ensure that projects or products do not result in injury, death, or
environmental damage.
10.3 Justice and Accountability (Adl):
28
Ibid.
29
Alghafli, Ali A. (2019). Islamic Ethics of Technology: An Objectives' (Maqasid) Approach. International Institute of
Islamic Thought (IIIT).Pages 76-83
30
Sunan Ibn Majah, The Chapters on Rulings, Chapter No.13, Section No. (17) One Who Builds Something On His
Own Property That Harms His Neighbor, Hadith 2340.
Engineers must ensure fairness and justice in their work, which includes
transparent decision-making processes regarding safety and risk. Any negligence or
intentional disregard for safety that endangers lives would be considered a
violation of justice. Islamic teachings emphasize accountability to both society and
God for the outcomes of one's actions.
10.4 Stewardship of Resources (Khilafah)
Engineers are seen as stewards (Khalifah) of the Earth, responsible for using
resources wisely and ensuring that their actions do not cause harm to the
environment. Effective safety management from an Islamic perspective includes
minimizing environmental risks and hazards.
10.5 Ethical Decision-Making in Safety
Islamic ethics encourages making decisions that balance safety, efficiency, and
sustainability. Islamic teachings mandate that in situations where safety and
economic gain conflict, priority must be given to protecting people and the
environment.
10.6 Consultation (Shura)
Islamic teachings encourage consultation (Shura) in decision-making processes.
When dealing with safety matters, engineers and professionals should consult
experts and stakeholders to make informed decisions that enhance safety
outcomes and prevent harm.
10.7 Trustworthiness (Amanah)
In Islam, trust (Amanah) is highly valued, and professionals are entrusted with
safeguarding lives, property, and the environment. Engineers, therefore, must act
as trustees, ensuring that safety is paramount in all aspects of their work. 31
10.8 Intention (Niyyah)
In Islam, actions are judged by intentions. According to hadith "Actions are but by
intention" – Sahih Bukhari). Engineers and professionals must ensure that their
intention (Niyyah) behind implementing safety measures is not just to comply with

31
Al-Hassani, Salim T. S. (2008). Engineering in Islam: Philosophy and Ethics. Foundation for Science, Technology,
and Civilisation (FSTC). Pages 115-120.
regulations but to genuinely protect lives and prevent harm, aligning with the
broader ethical values of Islam. 32
10.9 Public Welfare (Maslahah)
Islamic law places significant importance on Maslahah, or public interest, which
encompasses the well-being of the community. Engineers are expected to prioritize
public safety and welfare over profits or personal gains. Any project that threatens
public safety violates the concept of Maslahah and is considered unethical in Islam.
10.10 Avoiding Unnecessary Risk (Tajannub al-Mahdhur)
Islam encourages avoiding unnecessary risks, especially when they endanger lives
or the environment. In safety management, this principle urges engineers to take
preventive measures, perform thorough risk assessments, and ensure that
potential hazards are minimized or eliminated in any project or process.
10.11 Balance (Mizan) and Moderation (Wasatiyyah)
Islam teaches moderation and balance in all aspects of life, including professional
conduct. In safety management, this means finding a balance between innovation
and safety. Engineers must ensure that their pursuit of progress does not come at
the expense of safety, aligning with the Islamic principle of Wasatiyyah.
10.12 Learning from Experience (Ijtihad and Istinbat)
Islam encourages the use of reasoning (Ijtihad) and deriving rulings from
experience (Istinbat). Engineers should learn from past experiences, both successes
and failures, to improve safety management practices. This reflects the Islamic
obligation to seek knowledge and improve society through wisdom and reflection.
10.13 Environmental Stewardship (Hifz al-Bi’ah)
Islam promotes environmental protection, which includes preventing any harm to
the natural world that could indirectly threaten human safety. Engineers are
required to manage projects in ways that minimize environmental risks, pollution,
and resource depletion, ensuring sustainable safety management for future
generations.

10.14 Prohibition of Corruption (Ihsan and Anti-Fasad)

32
Iqbal, Muzaffar. (2009). Islam and the Ethics of Technology: Humanity and the Future. Ashgate Publishing. Pages
89-94.
Islam strictly prohibits corruption (Fasad), including in professional practices where
shortcuts in safety or bribery could endanger lives. Engineers must practice Ihsan
(excellence in conduct), ensuring that safety is not compromised for personal gain
or due to corruption in any form. 33

11.Conclusion
Safety and risk management are fundamental aspects of engineering, ensuring the
well-being of individuals, the environment, and infrastructure. This chapter has
explored the key concepts of safety in engineering, highlighting the necessity of
proactive risk assessment and management to mitigate potential hazards.
Understanding risk in engineering is essential, as risks can arise from various
sources, including operational failures, environmental impacts, and health hazards.
Engineers must be equipped with the knowledge and tools to assess, control, and
minimize these risks through systematic approaches and established frameworks.
The role of engineers in safety is not only technical but also ethical. Professional
engineering codes of ethics emphasize the responsibility of engineers to prioritize
safety in all aspects of their work. Additionally, engineers have legal and moral
obligations to ensure that safety standards are upheld in their respective fields. A
structured safety checklist serves as a practical tool for engineers to adhere to
safety regulations and best practices. Moreover, the chapter acknowledges the
significance of safety from an Islamic perspective, reinforcing the ethical duty of
engineers to protect lives and prevent harm in accordance with moral and religious
principles. In conclusion, safety in engineering is a multidimensional responsibility
that requires diligence, ethical commitment, and technical expertise. By following
best practices, ethical guidelines, and regulatory frameworks, engineers can
contribute to safer work environments and sustainable engineering solutions that
benefit society as a whole.

12.Model Questions

1. Why is safety considered a critical aspect of engineering, and how does it impact
engineering projects?
2. How does the concept of safety in engineering differ from general workplace
safety?

33
Kamali, Mohammad Hashim. (2016). Islamic Values and Engineering: Safety, Ethics, and Sustainability.
International Institute of Advanced Islamic Studies (IAIS) Malaysia. Pages 142-148
3. What is the definition of risk in engineering, and how does it relate to
uncertainty and hazards?
4. What are the major types of risks in engineering, and how can they affect
engineering projects and professionals?
5. What are the key steps in risk assessment and management in engineering
projects?
6. How do engineers contribute to ensuring safety in engineering practices, and
what challenges do they face?
7. How do engineering codes of ethics address safety concerns, and why are they
important?
8. What legal and moral obligations do engineers have regarding safety in their
work?
9. What are some essential items that should be included in a safety checklist for
engineers?
10. How does Islamic teaching emphasize safety in engineering and risk
management?