The 1996 Risk Management Rule was issued to protect public health and safety for which group?

• A. Nonemployees
• B. Employees only
• C. The general public including private residences
• D. Only company contractors

Answer: (A)

Nonemployees are the focus because the 1996 Risk Management Rule is designed to protect people outside the facility’s walls from potential chemical releases. It requires facilities to assess offsite consequences, implement prevention and emergency response measures, and coordinate with local authorities so that members of the surrounding community—such as residents, visitors, and others not on the payroll—are safeguarded in case of an accident. While on-site workers face safety protections too, the rule’s purpose is to minimize risk to the broader public beyond the workplace, which is why nonemployees best fits the intended protection scope.