Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI) Practice Exam

For a gas utility company lacking a health and safety program, what is the first step HR should take?

1. Comply with safety standards

2. Identify and assist at-risk employees

3. Implement an incentive program

4. Consult with workers' compensation brokers

The correct answer is: Identify and assist at-risk employees

In this scenario, the first step HR should take when a gas utility company lacks a health and safety program is to identify and assist at-risk employees. This is crucial because without a health and safety program in place, there may be employees who are particularly vulnerable to safety hazards or who may not be aware of best safety practices relevant to their roles. By identifying and assisting at-risk employees, HR can proactively address safety concerns, provide necessary training and support, and work towards creating a safer working environment for all employees. Option A suggests complying with safety standards, which is important but may not be the immediate first step when there is no existing health and safety program in place. Option C, implementing an incentive program, may be premature without first addressing the fundamental issue of identifying at-risk employees and ensuring their safety. Option D, consulting with workers' compensation brokers, is important but should come after the initial step of identifying and assisting at-risk employees to prevent workplace incidents that may lead to compensation claims.