What does "reasonably practicable" refer to in a workplace context?

The term "reasonably practicable" in a workplace context refers to what can be done considering both the cost and the effort involved in implementing safety measures. This concept emphasizes that while it is important to ensure safety and health in the workplace, there is a balance to strike between taking necessary precautions and the resources (time, effort, and financial costs) required to implement them.

In practice, this means that employers must implement safety measures that are effectively achievable and offer a sensible balance between the level of risk and the resources necessary for mitigation. For instance, if a safety measure is extremely costly relative to the level of risk it mitigates, it may not be deemed "reasonable" to implement even though it could lead to greater safety. This concept underpins many health and safety regulations and encourages a practical approach to managing risks.

Other options imply extremes or do not consider the balance of practicality—such as focusing solely on expense without regard for safety, or prioritizing employee satisfaction which, while important, is separate from the concept of risk mitigation in "reasonably practicable."