How are safety audits primarily described in terms of their analysis?

Safety audits are primarily described as qualitative analyses because they focus on assessing processes, behaviors, and conditions in the workplace, which often involve subjective evaluations of workplace safety practices. These audits rely on observations, interviews, and expert judgments to identify potential hazards and compliance with safety standards.

While quantitative measures, such as incident rates or compliance statistics, can complement the findings of safety audits, the qualitative aspect is more central. This qualitative focus allows for a comprehensive understanding of safety culture and practices which are crucial for identifying areas for improvement.

In contrast to purely quantitative methods, qualitative examinations consider the context and effectiveness of safety measures in real-world scenarios, making them essential for driving changes and enhancements in workplace safety.