Which governance mechanism involves external validation of safety practices by independent entities?

• A. External audits
• B. Internal team reviews
• C. Marketing campaigns
• D. Employee training programs

Answer: (A)

External validation of safety practices by independent entities means having an outside party assess and attest that the organization's safety processes meet agreed standards. This governance mechanism—external audits—provides objective assurance, helps identify gaps, and boosts stakeholder trust by showing that safety controls work beyond internal checks. Internal team reviews are done by people inside the organization and may reflect internal perspectives rather than independent judgment. Marketing campaigns and employee training serve other purposes and do not provide third-party verification of safety compliance.