Training accident investigation

The focus of this chapter has been on proactive application of these analytical methods such as safety audits, development of procedures, training needs analysis, and equipment design. However, many of these methods can also be used in a retrospective mode, and this issue deserves further attention in its own right. Chapter 6 describes analytical methods for accident investigations and data collection. 

National Safety Council, 1992, ISBN 0-87912-167-X, 386 pages, 62.95. Topics Indude environmental management, hazard communication, safety management and training, inspections, material handling and storage, accident investigation, and case studies. 

With the scenes of digging and burying the head-stock were shown frequently in the TV, the statement of the train accident caused by unexpected shot by thunder was generally questioned by the public. The Accident Investigation Report con-... 

Attend at least two 8-hour safety training courses/seminars per year. (Examples include Modern Safety Management, Accident Investigation, Critical Task Identification and Analysis, Risk Assessment, Accredited Auditors.)... 

Health and safety representatives who have received specific accident investigation training could be used to assist in accident and near-miss incident investigations. Since they will be conducting both formal and informal inspections, a training session in auditing techniques will help them to audit safety standards in their own areas. 

A comprehensive accident investigation system, as well as training, was implemented, and line management were made responsible for their own accident investigations assisted by safety staff where and when necessary. A vehicle seat belt policy and windshield stickers were introduced, and the gate security guards instructed not to allow any vehicle onto the site if the occupants were not wearing their seat belts. They also reminded vehicle occupants to bnckle np. 

Fundamentally, safety is underpinned or undermined by human capabilities and limitations, and to err is human. Accident investigators have moved away from the position of regarding the phrase pilot error as an appropriate explanatory cause. It is far more appropriate to ask why the error was made and why it was not detected and corrected in time, including the creation of barriers (or defensive layers) through the design of suitable interfaces, training, operational procedures etc. 

Hugh Hoagland is Sr. Partner of e-Hazard.com, an electrical safety training company and ArcWear. com, providing arc flash testing of PPE and electrical accident investigations. 

Since the investigation must be initiated within 48 hours, it is important to have investigators or an investigation team trained and designated prior to any occurrence. That team should have an experienced leader, additional technical expertise, and a person knowledgeable of the process involved in the mishap. Data and records analysis, information review, reconstruction, interviews, equipment examination, and continuous team consultation are important to efficient closure. An Accident Investigation Report form is included in the OSHA Pamphlet 3133 (US. Department of Labor, OSHA 1992). 

For instance, you might be an expert in accident investigation and reconstruction, but lack the skills needed to develop and implement a comprehensive accident-free driver training policy. 

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