Weak Signals - Half Day Program
Overview
Weak signals are the subtle, early indicators that something is changing, deteriorating or not quite right. They often emerge before incidents, failures or significant degradation of controls, yet are easy to overlook or dismiss in busy operational environments.
This half-day programme helps participants recognise weak signals in both technical and human systems, and explore how to investigate, discuss and act on them. The format is interactive and reflective, drawing on real examples to highlight how awareness, curiosity and leadership behaviour influence the detection of weak signals.
Who is this programme for
This programme is designed for:
- Leaders and managers in high-hazard industries
- Process safety and technical specialists
- Engineering, operations and maintenance personnel
- HSE and risk professionals
- Anyone responsible for decision-making or oversight in complex environments
It is relevant for organisations seeking to improve early detection, strengthen situational awareness and encourage proactive action on emerging risks.
What the program covers
Understanding weak signals
- What weak signals are and where they show up
- Why they matter and how organisations typically miss them
Human and organisational factors
- How attention, workload and assumptions influence detection
- Why weak signals feel ambiguous and difficult to raise
The Platypus Philosophy®
- A structured approach to noticing, investigating and naming weak signals
Turning signals into action
- How to frame weak signals in conversations and decisions
- Exploring bow tie thinking to connect weak signals to controls
Measuring and reporting
- Why measurement is challenging
- Encouraging reporting without creating noise or false confidence
What participants will take away
By the end of the program, participants will
- Better recognise weak signals in day-to-day work
- Understand how behaviours, communication and culture influence detection
- Be more confident investigating and discussing weak signals
- Recognise links between weak signals, controls and escalation potential
- Take away practical tools for proactive leadership and situational awareness
Participants Feedback
Format
- Half-day facilitated programme
- Interactive discussion and reflection
- Practical scenarios using bow tie thinking
- Suitable for cross-functional groups
Delivery Options
- Public course
- In-house delivery available on request
Enquiries
For upcoming public course dates or to discuss in-house delivery options, please get in touch.