Which of the following is considered an individual safety risk factor?

Cognitive impairment is recognized as an individual safety risk factor because it directly affects a person's ability to understand their environment, assess risks, and respond appropriately in potentially hazardous situations. Individuals with cognitive impairments may have difficulty processing information, following safety protocols, or recognizing when they are in danger. This can lead to a higher likelihood of accidents, falls, or other safety issues, particularly in settings such as healthcare facilities, where prompt and appropriate responses to changing situations are critical for safety.

In contrast, the other choices focus on broader systemic or environmental risks rather than individual characteristics. Inadequate assessments pertain to failures in evaluating patient needs or situations, while fires and equipment failure are environmental safety concerns that can affect anyone but do not stem from individual traits or capabilities. Therefore, cognitive impairment is specifically identified as a personal risk factor that can significantly impact an individual’s safety and well-being.