Accident Investigation
Accident investigation is an important process to identify and control hazardous conditions, influence employee behaviors and improve system weaknesses that result in workplace accidents.
In the context of occupational safety and health, the terms "incident" and "accident" are often used, but they have distinct meanings:
Incident: This is a broader term that refers to any event that disrupts or could disrupt workplace activities. It doesn't necessarily result in injury or damage. Incidents include near misses (situations where an injury or property damage could have occurred, but didn't), equipment malfunctions, or any other irregularity. The key aspect of an incident is that it has the potential for causing harm, even if no actual harm occurred. Recording and investigating all incidents are crucial for identifying and mitigating risks in the workplace before they lead to accidents.
Accident: This term specifically refers to an unplanned event that results in injury, illness, or property damage. An accident is a type of incident, but not all incidents are accidents. Accidents are what most safety programs aim to avoid, as they have a direct impact on the health and well-being of employees, as well as potential financial and legal consequences for the organization.
The Accident Investigation Program
An effective accident investigation program is guided by standard written procedures. Procedures are clearly stated and easy to follow in a step-by-step fashion. Open the link below to review the important characteristics common in the most effective accident investigation programs.
- At least two competent persons investigate. Two persons usually work better at gathering and analyzing material facts about the accident.
- Accident investigators are properly trained on techniques and procedures.
- The investigation report is written and addresses surface causes and root causes of accidents.
- The accident investigation report makes recommendations to correct hazardous conditions and unsafe work practices, and improve underlying SMS weaknesses.
- The purpose of the accident investigation is to determine the facts, not the blame. Discipline is a separate issue properly addressed by management/human resources only if contributing root causes have not been uncovered.
- Surface causes for the accidents are corrected on the spot or as soon as possible. Long-term system improvements are completed in a timely manner.
- Competent persons evaluate accident reports annually for consistency and quality.
- Safety personnel annually review and evaluate the investigation program.
- Information about the types of accidents, locations, trends, etc., is analyzed to improve investigations and prevent future accidents.
- Everyone is informed of corrective actions and system improvements. Training is conducted as needed.
Steps in the Accident Investigation
Your accident investigation should be conducted systematically using the following steps:
- Secure the accident scene
- Document the accident scene
- Interview witnesses
- Construct a sequence of events
- Determine the causes
- Develop solutions
- Write the report
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
6-1. In the context of occupational safety, what is the difference between an incident and an accident?
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