We have created a free bowtie diagram template in both Excel and PowerPoint with a handy cheat sheet to get you started on your first bowtie diagram! Keep reading to learn about bowtie diagrams and to download the free Excel and PPT templates.

Bowtie diagrams

A bowtie diagram helps you understand and communicate your risks in a simple picture. Visualise the barriers you have in place to prevent an incident from occurring or to mitigate its consequences. Safety is not the absence of incidents, it is the presence of effective barriers. Bowtie diagrams allow you to understand the hazards you want to control, as well as the threats that could lead to an incident.

Bowtie diagrams should be detailed yet easily understood by your audience. A balance of information is necessary to ensure a clear picture of your risk. Additional information can be added to your barriers, which is often referred to as metadata. Metadata can include things like barrier owner, condition/health, type, location, and many more.

There are seven main elements of a bowtie diagram. Before getting started with our free bowtie diagram template, you should be familiar with all seven and how they’re used. It’s important to clearly define your barriers and the other elements of your bowtie diagram, so that your team members can gain a clear understanding of your risk in a simple picture.

Note that different organisations or regions use different names for bowtie diagram elements. Here are a list of terms that may be used interchangeably with one another:

• Top Event – Loss of Control
• Threat – Cause
• Escalation Factor – Degradation Factor

To learn more about the elements of a bowtie diagram and to see clear bow tie examples, visit our blog.

Free Bowtie Diagram Templates (PPT and Excel)

Not ready to sign up for Bowtie Master? No problem. These free bowtie diagram templates will allow you to begin implementing bowtie diagrams as a regular part of your risk assessments. A free Excel and PowerPoint template will save you time and allow you to become familiar with bowtie diagrams, whether they’re a new concept to you or an existing tool in your toolbox.

The bow tie example outlines the seven steps required to build a bowtie diagram and provides a list of questions to keep you on track. Answer the questions at each step to ensure you’re following best bowtie diagram practices. 

To get started on your first bow tie example using Bowtie Master, have a look at our build your first bowtie diagram how-to guide!

For more information on bowtie diagrams, visit our blog or book a demo. 

Download our free Excel and PPT templates below.