Principles of accident investigation

The hardest lessons to be learned in accident prevention come from the investigation of accidents and incidents which could have caused injury or loss. Facing up to those lessons can be traumatic for all concerned, which is one reason why investigations are often incomplete and simplistic. Nevertheless, the depth required of an investigation must be a function of the value it has for the 

The number of purposes is large the amount of detail necessary in the report depends upon the uses to be made of it. Enforcement agencies look for evidence of blame, claims specialists look for evidence of liability, trainers look for enough material for a case study. From the viewpoint of prevention, the purpose of the investigation and report is to establish whether a recurrence can be prevented, or its effects lessened, by the introduction of safeguards, procedures, training and information, or any combination of these. 

There should be a defined procedure for investigating all accidents, however serious or trivial they may appear to be. The presence of a form and checklist will help to concentrate attention on the important details. The management team of the project where the accident occurred will be involved for less serious accidents they may be the only people who take part in the investigation and reporting procedure. Workers representatives may also be involved as part of the investigating team. 

The following are essential tools in the competent investigation of accidents and damage/loss incidents  

Information obtained during investigations is given verbally, or provided in writing. Written documentation should be gathered to provide evidence of policy or practice followed on site, and witnesses should be talked to as soon as possible after the accident. The injured person should also be seen promptly and interviewed. 

---