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Bow-tie analysis, a key tool in risk management, focuses on assessing and visualizing barriers to prevent and mitigate incident pathways, primarily in the field of risk management and process safety. Its main purpose is to understand the different scenarios that could lead to a particular incident and assess the preventive and mitigative measures that can be put in place to minimize the impact.
The analysis uses a bow-tie diagram, where the event or incident is positioned in the middle of the diagram, and the causes (left side) and consequences (right side) are identified and analyzed, along with the corresponding barriers and degradation controls in place to mitigate the risk.
Bow-tie diagrams can assist with:
There are several advantages of using a bow-tie analysis:
With decades of experience in managing combustible dust hazards, flammable solvents, and gases, our engineers will partner with you to identify, assess, and implement control measures in your new or existing facility.
Bow-tie analysis is commonly used by risk managers, safety professionals, and stakeholders in industries where there are potential risks and hazards, including but not limited to:
Manufacturing industry: to assess risks in product development, production processes, and supply chains
However, bow-tie analysis can be applied in any industry or organization where there is a need to better understand and manage risks associated with specific events or incidents.
Our expert consultants perform a thorough Bow-Tie Analysis, enabling you to strengthen your risk management practices and enhance overall safety and control measures. Sigma-HSE can assist you in identifying the areas in new and existing facilities where flammable atmospheres and combustible dust can be found and guide you through the complexities of the Bow-Tie Analysis.
By implementing best practices, our actionable insights determine what practicable control measures and recommendations should be made for your company to optimize safety and reduce the level of risk to your people, your business, and the environment.
If you find yourself asking, ‘Do I need a Bow-Tie Analysis?’, connect with us today. Our experts can answer any preliminary questions you may have.
Our webinar, “Differing Methodologies of PHA,” is now live. It explores different approaches to Process Hazard Analysis and guides you in selecting the most suitable method for various situations.
Bowtie Analysis gets its name from the shape of its diagram, which looks like a bowtie. It shows a hazard in the middle, with threats on one side and consequences on the other, connected by preventive and mitigation measures. Think of it as a map that shows how problems might start, what could happen, and what we can do about it.
Start by gathering your team and picking one specific hazard you want to analyze. First, put that hazard in the center of your diagram. Then, work with your team to list what could cause this hazard (threats) on the left side. Next, add what could happen (consequences) on the right side. Finally, fill in the controls you have or need between these elements. Remember, it’s better to start small and do it well than try to analyze everything at once.
Bowtie Analysis stands out because it shows everything in one clear picture. Unlike lists or tables, you can see how different risks connect and how your safety measures work together. It’s like having a safety story laid out in front of you, making it easier for everyone to understand – from new employees to senior managers.
The best results come from including people who work with the process daily, safety experts, engineers, and managers. Each person brings different knowledge: operators know practical challenges, engineers understand technical details, and safety experts can spot potential issues. It’s like putting together a puzzle where everyone holds different pieces.
Think of Bowtie Analysis as a living document. Update it when you make changes to your process, after incidents (even minor ones), when new regulations come out, or at least annually. Regular reviews help keep your safety measures current and effective.
Look for these indicators: if people find it hard to understand the diagram, if recent incidents weren’t predicted in your analysis, if controls aren’t clearly defined, or if the same problems keep happening. These signs suggest you might need to revisit and refresh your analysis.
Undertaking Hazard and Operability studies are an important aspect for organizations in keeping people, business and the environment safe. Learn more about how our Bow-Tie analysis solutions can support your organization with safety risks.
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