The Smart Risk-Playbook Newsletter

Helping business leaders prevent product risks

Edition #4 - The Role of Fail-Safe Design in Preventing Product Injuries

22/5/2025

Good design plays a critical role in reducing product risks, especially the risk of injury. Injuries don’t just affect users; they can also trigger product recalls, legal action, and reputational damage. The EU Safety Gate 2023 Annual Report highlighted that injuries were the second most common reason for product recalls (after chemical risks), accounting for 21% of all cases.

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Bringing a product to market—whether it’s a new launch or an established line—comes with challenges at every stage. I’ve seen firsthand how unexpected risks can derail even the most innovative businesses.

My goal with this newsletter is to help you anticipate these risks, make informed decisions, and strengthen your business’s resilience.
Each issue, you’ll gain practical insights such as:

Preventing development delays that impact your time to market
Managing manufacturing risks to ensure quality and reliability
Avoiding post-market surprises that can lead to recalls or compliance issues

By understanding what’s happening behind the scenes, you’ll be equipped to ask the right questions, challenge assumptions, and create a business that runs smoothly—without unexpected setbacks slowing you down.