Accident Investigation Programs
As mentioned earlier, the ultimate goal of an accident investigation is prevent future injuries and illnesses by correcting SMS weaknesses. It's important to develop a written program to ensure effective investigations.
Investigation programs should always designed to fix the system, not to assign blame.
The characteristics of an effective investigation program include the following:
- The primary focus is identifying and correcting system weaknesses.
- At least two competent people conduct the investigation.
- Investigators receive proper training on techniques and procedures.
- A written report identifies both surface and root causes of accidents.
- The report includes recommendations to do the following:
- Correct hazardous conditions and unsafe work practices
- Strengthen weaknesses in the Safety Management System (SMS)
- Discipline is handled separately by management or human resources, and only if the investigation fails to uncover contributing root causes
- Competent personnel review the program and reports annually to ensure quality and consistency
- Data from accidents are analyzed to continuously improve future investigations and prevent accidents
- Everyone affected is informed of corrective actions, and training is provided as needed
Investigation Steps
An effective accident investigation program includes written procedures that are easy to follow step by step.
- Secure the scene
- Document the 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.
6-2. How is discipline addressed in accident investigation?
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