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Bow-tie analysis

Definition

A risk-visualisation method combining a fault tree (left of the bow-tie, hazard to critical event) with an event tree (right, critical event to consequences), with barriers drawn explicitly on both sides to show prevention and mitigation.

Related terms

Active failure
An error or rule violation by a front-line operator whose effects are felt immediately. Active failures are the triggers Reason calls 'unsafe...
Blowout preventer (BOP)
A large specialised valve or series of valves installed at the wellhead of an oil or gas well to seal, control, and...
Latent condition
In Reason's model, a pre-existing organisational weakness (poor design, defective procedure, unrealistic scheduling, inadequate training) that lies dormant until aligned with other...
Safety Management System (SMS)
A formal, documented framework of policies, procedures, responsibilities, and performance monitoring through which an organisation identifies hazards, assesses risks, and manages safety...
Swiss Cheese Model
James Reason's accident causation model representing each defensive barrier as a cheese slice with holes. An accident occurs when holes in successive...

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