A Safe System of Work (SSoW) should explain how you intend to conduct a hazardous activity safely. It should be activity based and make reference to any associated risk assessments that have been completed to support your methodology. More information is given as you get to each section. The key is to ensure that this is comprehensive enough to follow. Specific controls that you intend to use or the order that your work must be conducted to ensure that your approach is safe must be clear. Note that a good engineer should look to design out any risks through the use of good engineering principles.

Objectives:

• To ensure that a Safe System of Work (SSoW) is devised for all work performed by academics, technical staff, student, researchers and others. [Note that if you are involved in specific activities, such as work involving the use of lasers (Class 3B or 4) or biological work do not use this form. Please refer to the appropriate Topic Guidance and complete the associated forms linked to this].
• To meet legal requirements.
• A SSoW may need to be completed as part of a Permit. For more information on a Permit to Work, please read through the appropriate guidance first.

Safe Systems:

Producing and implementing a safe system of work involves the following 5 steps:-