Bowtie Analysis – Visual Risk Assessment

Bowtie Analysis is a powerful risk assessment method that visually illustrates the relationship between potential hazards, their causes, and consequences.
It helps organizations understand how threats can lead to critical events and how safety barriers can prevent or mitigate those events.

The name "bowtie" comes from the shape of the diagram — with the hazard in the center, threats on the left, consequences on the right, and barriers (preventive and recovery) forming the “knot.”

• Hazard Identification – Define the central risk or critical event
   
• Threat Analysis – Determine what could trigger the event
   
• Preventive Barriers – Identify measures that stop the event from happening
   
• Consequences – Understand what could happen if the event occurs
   
• Mitigative Barriers – Define what actions can reduce the impact
   
• Human & Organizational Factors – Evaluate how people and systems contribute to safety
   

• Provides a simple, visual understanding of complex risks
   
• Enhances safety communication across teams
   
• Helps prioritize barrier effectiveness and gaps
   
• Supports compliance with international safety standards
   
• Acts as a foundation for risk management, incident investigation, and safety training
   

At EnTech, we apply the Bowtie methodology with practical, real-world experience using trusted tools such as BowTieXP®.
Our team delivers clear, visually structured diagrams that support safety leadership and operational decision-making.