Case studies: Overview
This section presents case studies of SSAs (System Safety Assessments) drawn from the domain of healthcare. They are based on real studies in which the SSA process was used in practice. However, the materials have been organised and tidied up and some small additions have been made for presentation purposes. In addition, some modifications have been made for reasons of confidentiality.
The first case study (Section 136) goes through the activities described in the Guide section, showing how they were applied in that particular instance. Examples are given of the system maps and completed sections of the SSA Assessment Form. The case study is broken down into the main phases of the process (as described in the Guide): Examine, Assess, Improve and Manage.
An examination of the risks involved in the process of admitting a young person to a secure mental health facility, in accordance with Section 136 of the Mental Health Act 1983.
An SSA of a new trauma network, delivering care to seriously injured people.
* Photograph reproduced with permission from the Safer Care Pathways in Mental Health project, funded by the Health Foundation.