Safe System of Work (SSOW)

A safe system of work is a formal, planned procedure that identifies hazards and sets out the safe method for carrying out a task.

A safe system of work (SSOW) is a defined procedure resulting from the systematic examination of a task, which identifies the hazards involved and sets out safe methods to ensure the work is done without harm. It combines the findings of risk assessment with practical arrangements such as sequencing, equipment, competence, and controls.

The requirement stems from the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, which places a duty on employers to provide and maintain safe systems of work so far as is reasonably practicable. Method statements and permits to work are common ways of documenting a safe system of work.

For a safe system of work to be effective it must be communicated to the people doing the job, monitored to make sure it is followed, and reviewed when circumstances change.