I have carried a 4596 (which uses the same receiver, but a shorter slide) as a duty weapon and off-duty sidearm since 1990 in just the condition you describe. It has remained safe and instantly available through numerous struggles with suspects, chases, falls, bumps entering and exiting cars, not to mention wilderness hikes. In my opinion, hammer down on a loaded chamber and safety off is the way to do it with this weapon. It is no less safe than a double action revolver or a (partly) cocked and locked Glock.
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