In organizational terms, which statement best describes authority?

• A. The obligation to report safety incidents
• B. The ability to influence others’ schedules
• C. The responsibility to train new hires
• D. The power/right to make decisions

Answer: (D)

Authority is the formal right to make decisions and commit resources within the organization, tied to a specific position in the hierarchy. This power enables a person to direct actions, approve courses of action, and guide how tasks are carried out within their scope. That’s why the statement describing the power/right to make decisions best matches the concept.

The obligation to report safety incidents reflects a duty or accountability—it’s about obligations, not decision-making power. The responsibility to train new hires is also a task or duty, not the formal authority to decide. The ability to influence others’ schedules relates to influence and coordination, which may exist without formal decision-making authority.