Which collection of terms represents the key features of a SMART corrective action?

• A. Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-bound
• B. Time-bound, Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant
• C. Attainable, Specific, Measurable, Time-bound, Relevant
• D. Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Timely

Answer: (A)

Focusing on SMART corrective actions means making sure every action is clear, measurable, feasible, aligned with safety goals, and has a deadline. Specific means you spell out exactly what will be done, by whom, where, and what the expected safety outcome is. Measurable provides concrete criteria to judge progress and success, such as quantities, dates, or checklists. Attainable ensures the target can realistically be achieved given available resources and constraints, so the action isn’t set up to fail. Relevant ties the action directly to the safety objective or risk you’re addressing, ensuring it actually matters. Time-bound assigns a clear deadline, creating accountability and urgency.

The collection in which these five terms appear together is the standard set for SMART corrective actions, because it covers all essential aspects: clarity, trackability, feasibility, relevance to safety goals, and a deadline. Alternatives swap synonyms (Achievable, Realistic, Timely) or reorder terms, which still describe similar ideas but do not match the conventional phrasing used in many frameworks.