We use necessary cookies to make our website work. We'd also like to use optional cookies to understand how you use it, and to help us improve it.

For more information, please read our cookie policy.



Control ownership

Integrating safety accountability is useful and this can be accomplished by allocating the post holder accountable for overseeing the effectiveness of the controls.

Tip: Identify the post holder accountable for ensuring the control is managed and resourced appropriately. Avoid simply nominating the CEO or Accountable Manager by drilling down as far as possible adds value.

Benefits of identifying and linking post holders to the bowtie include:

  • Facilitating the SMS goal of integrated safety accountability;
  • Identifying potential common failure modes across multiple controls improves the accuracy and validity of the risk assessment;
  • Providing a powerful awareness/ communication tool for demonstrating safety responsibilities within the organisation.
  • Enhancing safety by collaborative working and appreciating importance of cross sectorial control effectiveness and its wider impact if not managed satisfactorily

Control type

Control types illustrate the high-level grouping based on the type of control, this helps illustrate what type of weak spots there are and whether there is an over-reliance in the safety system e.g. over-reliance on training or proficiency controls surrounding a particular risk.