The Safe System of Work Planner (SSOWP) is a pivotal figure in ensuring the safety and efficiency of all work carried out on or near Network Rail infrastructure. While the COSS implements the safety plan on site, the SSOWP is the expert who designs that plan, long before work even begins. They are the architects of safety, meticulously planning every detail to eliminate or control risks.

What is an SSOWP?

An SSOWP is a highly skilled and experienced individual responsible for designing the Safe System of Work (SSoW) for any activity on the operational railway. This involves assessing all potential hazards, understanding complex railway rules and regulations, and creating a robust, clear, and comprehensive plan that a COSS or other site staff can then implement safely. Their work is fundamental to preventing incidents and accidents.

Key Duties and Responsibilities of an SSOWP:

The SSOWP's role is complex and demands analytical thinking, extensive knowledge of railway operations, and a proactive approach to risk management. Their duties typically include:

• Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment: Thoroughly evaluating the worksite, considering train movements, line speeds, electrical hazards, environmental factors, and specific task risks.

• Selecting the Appropriate Safe System of Work: Determining the most suitable method to protect staff, which could range from simple lookout protection to complex line blockages or full possessions.

• Developing Detailed Plans: Creating comprehensive documents (often called Work Package Plans or Task Briefing Sheets) that outline every aspect of safety, including:

  • Specific tasks to be carried out.

  • Defined safe working areas.

  • Protection arrangements (e.g., lookout positions, line blockages).

  • Emergency procedures.

  • Communication protocols.

  • Required competencies for staff on site.

• Consultation & Coordination: Liaising with various stakeholders, including project managers, engineers, Network Rail operations staff (Signallers, S&T staff), and those who will implement the plan (COSS).

• Site Visits: Often conducting pre-planning site visits to gather first-hand information and identify potential unforeseen issues.

• Compliance: Ensuring all plans comply with the latest Network Rail Rule Book, industry standards, and company procedures.

• Review & Approval: Submitting plans for review and approval by relevant authorities or project leads.

• Post-Work Review (Lessons Learned): Participating in reviews after work completion to identify areas for improvement in future planning.

Where an SSOWP can work within TES:

The SSOWP competency is highly valuable and essential for projects across TES 2000, particularly in roles involving project initiation and detailed preparation:

• Project Management & Coordination: SSOWPs are crucial within project teams, ensuring safety is designed into the project from its earliest stages.

• Technical Services/Engineering: Working closely with engineers to integrate safety plans with technical designs for new installations or upgrades (e.g., OLE, P-Way).

• Possession Management: This is a core area where SSOWPs are invaluable. They plan the Safe Systems for large possessions, coordinating multiple work groups and complex logistics.

• Estimating & Tendering: Providing expert input on the safety requirements and associated costs for proposed projects.

• Operations/Planning Department: Dedicated roles focused solely on planning safe systems for various ongoing works.

• Training & Assessment: Experienced SSOWPs can become trainers, teaching the next generation the intricate art of safety planning.