Accidents happen. It’s just a fact. Thousands of workers lose their lives yearly in workplace accidents. Others suffer nonfatal injuries or illnesses. Some of those accidents are repeat accidents that might have been avoided with proper accident investigation. So what steps should you take in an accident investigation?   Step 1: Gathering and reviewing evidence The first step is where you gather and review evidence. Generally, you’ll gather the facts. This may include anything from the position of tools and floor conditions to procedure violations. You’ll also collect evidence by taking photographs, making sketches, taking notes, or interviewing victims and witnesses. It’s important for you to verify all the facts surrounding the accident before looking for a cause.   Step 2: Identifying the causes When identifying causes you’ll want to ask yourself a series of why or why not questions in order to determine the true cause of an accident. Overall, you’ll discover that the causes of an accident may involve 12 types: site conditions, equipment, materials, layout, inspection, maintenance, procedures, changes, communication, training, employees, or management.   Step 3: Determining corrective actions Your next step is to look for ways to reduce or eliminate the causes. These are called “corrective actions.” Depending on the cause, there may be many possible corrective actions.   Step 4: Communicating the findings Finally, if you’re in a large company you’ll probably report your findings to upper management. Once approved, corrective actions can be implemented. If you’re in a small company it’s important to communicate the findings to all team members so they can be aware of the hazard.    If your investigation was effective, the same accident should not be repeated.  Stay safe.  Accidents happen.