IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

When a task is delegated, what remains with the person who delegated it?

1. The task's completion date

2. The accountability for the outcome

3. The authority to make decisions

4. The responsibility for providing resources

The correct answer is: The accountability for the outcome

When a task is delegated, the individual who delegated it retains accountability for the outcome. This concept is essential in understanding delegation in a management context, as it emphasizes that while the execution of the task may be assigned to another person, the original delegator is ultimately responsible for ensuring that the task is completed correctly and effectively. Accountability cannot be transferred; it remains with the person who has delegated the task, as they are typically in a higher position of authority and have the broader oversight of the project's objectives. This principle underlines the importance of clarity in communication when tasks are assigned. The delegator must ensure that the delegatee understands their role, expectations, and the standards to which the task must be performed. The retained accountability ensures that managers remain answerable to stakeholders for both the progress and the results of the delegated tasks, fostering a sense of responsibility and the need for proper oversight. Understanding this aspect of delegation is critical in effective team management, where leaders must balance the distribution of tasks with the need to maintain overall control and responsibility for outcomes.