Workplace safety has always been a top priority for organisations worldwide, but one hazard that is often underestimated is violence at work. Whether it’s verbal abuse, threats, bullying, or physical assault, violence can happen in any workplace — from offices to construction sites. To tackle this issue head-on, many businesses are now relying on Safe Systems of Work (SSOW) as a practical tool to prevent workplace violence.
Before diving into how SSOW can be used to curb violence, let’s touch upon something many safety officers think about: NEBOSH Course Fee. Investing in professional safety training like NEBOSH doesn’t just teach you rules; it prepares you to create effective systems such as SSOW, which keep everyone safe and reduce hidden costs related to incidents. Knowing how to develop and implement a Safe System of Work can be one of the smartest returns on your NEBOSH investment.
What Is a Safe System of Work (SSOW)?
A Safe System of Work is a set of organised steps and procedures designed to carry out tasks safely. It ensures that hazards, like workplace violence, are anticipated, evaluated, and controlled effectively. Think of it as a clear roadmap — it tells everyone exactly how to perform a task without putting themselves or others in harm’s way.
Why Addressing Violence Needs a System
Imagine a customer service rep dealing with an irate customer. Without proper guidance, they may react emotionally, escalating the situation. But if there’s a documented procedure, the employee knows exactly how to respond calmly and when to escalate it to security. This is where SSOW shines — it provides clarity, consistency, and confidence.
How to Use SSOW to Prevent Workplace Violence
Let’s break down a step-by-step approach to using a Safe System of Work for violence prevention:
1. Identify Potential Sources of Violence
The first step is to pinpoint where and how violence could occur. Talk to employees — they know best. For instance, retail staff might face aggressive customers during refund disputes, while healthcare workers might deal with frustrated patients’ families.
A quick anecdote: Sarah, a hospital receptionist, once faced an angry visitor who refused to wait his turn. Because the hospital had mapped out this risk, Sarah knew to press the discreet panic button installed under her desk — security arrived in seconds, diffusing the situation peacefully.
2. Assess the Risk Level
Next, analyse how likely and severe each risk is. Use incident records, staff feedback, and even local crime stats. This helps prioritise which risks to tackle first.
3. Develop Specific Procedures
Now, develop clear procedures for each identified scenario. For example:
- How to handle aggressive phone calls.
- How to de-escalate confrontations in person.
- How and when to call security or law enforcement.
Ensure these procedures are practical — they should not make tasks impossible to perform.
4. Communicate and Train Staff
A Safe System of Work is only effective if everyone knows about it. Hold training sessions, role-plays, and refresher workshops. For example, train front-desk staff on conflict resolution techniques or run mock scenarios for security teams.
5. Provide Supporting Equipment
Sometimes, having the right tools is just as important as training. Install CCTV in high-risk areas, provide personal alarms, or design offices with secure counters to separate staff from the public.
6. Monitor and Review
Once implemented, keep an eye on whether your SSOW is working. Encourage staff to report incidents — even near-misses. Review your system regularly and update it when new risks emerge.
Benefits of Using SSOW for Violence Prevention
An effective Safe System of Work for violence prevention brings multiple advantages:
- Peace of mind for staff: They feel protected and valued.
- Fewer incidents: Clear procedures reduce misunderstandings and outbursts.
- Lower costs: Reduced injuries and legal claims mean fewer hidden expenses.
- Positive reputation: Clients and visitors notice a calm, safe environment.
Real-World Example
At a busy urban bank, tellers used to face frequent verbal abuse from frustrated customers. After implementing a well-designed SSOW — including conflict de-escalation training, queue management barriers, and a dedicated security guard — incidents dropped by nearly 70% in six months. Staff turnover also decreased because employees felt safer.
Tips to Make Your SSOW Effective
Here are some practical ideas to ensure your SSOW does its job:
- Involve employees when creating procedures; they know daily challenges best.
- Keep procedures simple and jargon-free.
- Use visuals — flowcharts or infographics help people remember steps.
- Test your system — run mock drills to see if it works in real-life conditions.
- Always have a clear reporting channel for violence or threats.
Overcoming Common Challenges
Implementing SSOW for violence prevention isn’t without challenges. Some employees may think it’s unnecessary or too rigid. Here’s how to tackle this:
- Highlight real examples of incidents to show the risk is real.
- Emphasise that it’s about keeping everyone safe, not restricting freedom.
- Celebrate success stories — share how the SSOW helped prevent a situation from escalating.
Learn more about safety systems and training in NEBOSH in Pakistan to strengthen your safety culture.
Final Thoughts: Your Next Step Toward a Safer Workplace
Violence at work can have serious emotional, legal, and financial impacts on organisations and individuals alike. A well-crafted Safe System of Work is a practical, proven method to manage this hazard. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll create a work culture where safety is part of everyday life — not just a checklist.
Safety professionals often start their journey with formal training. Knowing about the NEBOSH Course Fee is essential because the knowledge you gain helps you build systems like SSOW with confidence and skill.
