What are Safe Systems of Work?
Sometimes referred to as Safe Operating Procedures, Safe Systems of Work (SSOW) are formal procedures which define the safe methods and procedures that need to be adopted during work activities to ensure that hazards are eliminated and risks minimised.
A SSOW can take a number of different forms and may be referred to as job safety instructions, safe working procedures or method statements.
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What are Safe Systems of Work used for?
They are used to control work activities and they ensure that the work tasks are carried out in a safe and healthy manner. They will form the basis of task related training for both workers and supervisors and will usually be established following a risk assessment.
Are Safe Systems of Work an alternative to legally required precautions?
A SSOW is not an alternative to taking other legally required precautions such as providing well-maintained, physical safeguards.
There are some situations where these physical precautions alone will not give adequate protection. For example, maintenance and repair work often involves the removal of guards or other physical protection.
During lifting operations the load may be well within the capacity of the crane but unless the load is properly attached according to a SSOW it could become unstable and be the cause of an accident.
How Peninsula can help you with Safe Systems of Work
Our teams offers expert advice on Safe Systems of Work. Our teams provide which is available 365 days a year. We take care of everything when you work with our Health & Safety experts.
Want to find out more? Contact us on 0800 028 2420 and book a free consultation with a Health & Safety consultant today.
