Paint a Word Picture
It's important that the sequence of events clearly describes a word picture of what occurred so that someone who is unfamiliar with the accident can 'see it happen' as they read the narrative.
Sample Sequence of Events
Click on the image to see another example that shows how a sequence of events can be developed using cards.
Describe each event on a card in no particular sequence. Next, post and arrange the events on your desk or a wall in the proper sequence.
Once the sequence of events is developed, we can then study each event in the sequence to determine the related causal factors below.
- Hazardous conditions: Objects and physical states that directly caused or contributed to the accident.
- Unsafe behaviors: Actions taken/not taken that directly caused or contributed to the accident.
- System weaknesses: Underlying inadequate or missing policies, programs, plans, processes, procedures and practices that contributed to the accident.
We'll study more about these three elements in the next module.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
5-5. You have established the sequence of events for a recent accident. What can you now determine using the sequence of events?
You forgot to answer the question!