According to safety management principles, how do we often perceive hazards that increase rapidly?

In the context of safety management principles, the perception of rapidly increasing hazards is often characterized by underestimation. This is primarily due to a cognitive bias known as the "normalcy bias," where individuals and organizations may believe that things will continue as they are and thus downplay the potential for sudden changes or increased risks. When hazards escalate quickly, there can be a tendency to overlook their severity, often under the assumption that previous trends will continue.

This underestimation can lead to inadequate preparation or response measures, as people may not recognize the urgency or seriousness of the threat until it manifests in a more immediate and recognizable form. Consequently, this perception can hinder effective risk management and safety protocols, making it essential for safety professionals to educate themselves and their teams about the importance of recognizing and responding to rapidly escalating hazards.

Understanding this principle is vital for developing a proactive safety culture and ensuring that adequate measures are taken to mitigate risks before they become critical.