Accidents happen.  But when they do it is important to know and understand the correct accident investigation procedure.  In today’s blog, I’d like to review that topic.  The purpose of an accident investigation is to establish all relevant facts as to "how, what, when, and where" an accident occurred.

OBJECTIVE
 
Accident investigations are conducted to discover why the accident occurred and to prevent an accident from happening again.  It is an important part of accident prevention.  After the investigation is complete (which is normally after the initial accident report is done), a root cause analysis will be undertaken where appropriate to see if a similar accident can be avoided.
 
TIME FOR ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION
 
a.   Accidents must be investigated as soon as possible after their occurrence.  The more time that is allowed to lapse before questioning personnel involved and witnesses, inspecting the accident scene, inspecting the equipment, or reenacting the accident (if appropriate), the greater the risk of not getting the facts.
b.   The injured or involved person's version of an accident should be recorded before their memory fades or distorts the actual events.  The scene of the accident should also be examined promptly before information is removed, including taking pictures and measurements if at all possible.
 
ALL ACCIDENTS SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED
 
All accidents which result in bodily injury or property damage must be investigated.
 
INVESTIGATION PROCEDURES
 
The following is a brief general summary of the steps that should be taken in order to facilitate the completion of the appropriate reporting form based on the type of accident.
 
Documentation / Fact-finding (Don’t Speculate, Be Factual, Offer No Opinions):
 

• Take notes in order to complete the report, be careful to quote statements concerning the incident and not make statements regarding the accident.  Record the exact words (as necessary) used by the witness.  It should include:

1. Where and when the accident occurred.
2. Who and what were involved.
3. Sequence of events. 
4. Extent of damage/injury. 
5. Accident type.

• Gather evidence from as many sources as possible during an investigation.
• Interview witnesses as soon as possible after an accident and gather written statements / descriptions.

1. Experienced personnel should conduct interviews.
2. Explain the purpose of the investigation (accident prevention) and put each witness at ease.
3. Get information from witnesses and reports as well as by observation.
4. Document, Document, Document!
5. Document the location of victims, witnesses, machinery, energy sources, and hazardous materials.
6. Take photographs and make sketches of the accident scene.

 
Summary Report: (Don’t Speculate, Be Factual, Offer No Opinions)

• Analyze the gathered information.
• Prepare a summary report.
• Recommended actions to prevent a recurrence.

 
INVESTIGATION PROCEDURES NOTES
 
People do not react in the same manner to a particular stimulus.  For example, a witness within close proximity to the accident may have an entirely different story from one who saw it at a distance.  Some witnesses may also change their stories after they have discussed it with others.
 
A witness who has had a traumatic experience may not be able to recall the details of the accident.  A witness who has a vested interest in the results of the investigation may offer biased testimony.  Finally, eyesight, hearing, reaction time, and the general condition of each witness may affect his or her powers of observation.  A witness may omit entire sequences because of a failure to observe them or because their importance was not realized.
 
Accordingly, make every effort to:
 
1.      Document the statement(s) in writing,
2.      Document the statements ASAP, and
3.      Take the statements of as many witnesses as possible.
 
Stay safe!