Accidents do not just happen. Unsafe acts and/or unsafe conditions cause them. An important element of a well-rounded and effective safety program is the investigation of accidents. The causes of accidents can be determined and effective controls can be developed by proper accident investigation. Additionally, the investigation of accidents has an educational value for those who participate in the inquiry. Accident Investigation is both proactive and reactive.
Purpose
Determine accident
Take correct preventative
Control losses which directly impact the bottom
Increase accountability throughout the
Procedure
Investigate as soon as possible
Accident scene is fresh,
Injured party and witnesses’ memory
Document
Preserve equipment/machinery
Until it can be inspected for engineering evidence of malfunction, faulty design, improper use, etc. (subrogation evidence). Take photos when
Key words for the process:
WHO – WHAT – WHEN – WHERE – WHY – HOW
Root Causes
It’s important to remember when investigating an accident that effective permanent corrective action measures involve analysis and upgrade of process, as well as management procedures. See chart below for some of the areas to assess.