The random inspection approach fails to focus on what?

The random inspection approach primarily examines various establishments without a targeted focus. This method may overlook specific establishments that frequently exhibit recurring problems or violations. By failing to concentrate on these problem establishments, the random inspection approach could allow significant issues to persist undetected, thereby undermining the overall effectiveness of the inspection program.

Targeting recurring problem establishments would likely yield more impactful results, as it enables inspectors to address persistent hazards or non-compliance directly rather than spreading resources thinly across a wide range of establishments. This targeted strategy can lead to better public health outcomes by ensuring that facilities with a history of issues receive the necessary scrutiny and support to rectify their practices.

In contrast, the other options do not capture the core limitation of random inspections. For instance, averaging outcomes may suggest that, over time, inspections could balance out results, and comprehensive inspections might still occur but won’t be prioritized in this approach. Likewise, staff shortages, while a concern, do not directly relate to the effectiveness of targeting inspections toward high-risk establishments.