Certified Safety Professional Practice Exam

The method that utilizes a logic diagram to explore potential causes of an accident is fault tree analysis. This technique is a deductive, top-down approach used primarily to understand how various failures can lead to an undesired event, such as an accident. By creating a visual representation of the pathways that might contribute to the failure, fault tree analysis helps safety professionals identify and analyze the contributions of different factors, including equipment malfunctions and human errors.

The logical structure of a fault tree diagram allows for a systematic examination of complex systems. By breaking down the causes into more detailed components, it facilitates a better understanding of the relationship between these causes and the accident. This method is particularly effective for identifying critical failures and their interdependencies, contributing to improved safety measures and risk mitigation strategies.

In contrast, failure modes and effects analysis focuses on identifying potential failure modes within a system and their effects, without necessarily employing a logic diagram format. Cost-benefit analysis evaluates the financial implications of different safety measures but does not systematically explore causal relationships. Risk assessment is a broader process that evaluates risks but may not specifically use logic diagrams to delve into causal factors.