Confidentiality, witness interviews

Team member training may also include role playing for such activities as witness interviews, conflict resolution, and confidentiality issues. Team members should understand they are not expected to perform at the level of full-time professional investigators. They must feel the freedom to request help or training as soon as they recognize a need. 

In most cases, it is imreasonable to tell witnesses that the information provided during an interview will remain confidential. The team should make reasonable efforts to protect the identity of each witness and the information provided by each witness. For example, in reports, the names of witnesses should not be used. However, the report will have to show the sequence of occurrences and the identity of witnesses may be apparent to personnel at the facility. The notes from each witness should not be shown or released to anyone outside the incident investigation team. 

Before moving on to the body of the interview, ask the witness if he has any questions. Typical questions include confidentiality of the information provided during the interview, how long the interview will take, and... 

This first phase may appear on the surface to be shallow chitchat, yet it can determine the entire outcome of the interview. It provides an opportunity for the interviewer to explain the purpose, format, expectations, confidentiality, and to deal with any special concerns of the witness. Yet, the most beneficial aspect is the opportunity to establish a constructive atmosphere in which communication can begin. 

Witnesses should be told the purpose of the interview and how the information will be used. They should not generally be advised that the information they give will be held confidential. 

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