The underlying principle is one of synergy: a whole is more than sum of its parts. Systems-based approach to safety requires the application of scientific, technical and managerial skills to hazard identification, hazard analysis, and elimination, control, or management of hazards throughout the life-cycle of a system, program, project or an activity or a product.
The core idea is rooted in synergy, where a unified entity surpasses the combined total of its constituent parts. A systems-thinking approach to safety necessitates the application of interdisciplinary expertise in hazard identification, analysis, and management across all stages of development.