Accident investigation basics

As much as we all try to prevent them, accidents happen. Accidents are defined as any unplanned events, major or minor, that result in personal injury or illness (of any kind), death, or property damage. No one wants to be injured, maimed, or even killed on the job, but even with our best efforts towards safety, the potential for accidents exists.

Accident investigation
Although the potential for accidents exists, most companies can at least reduce the likelihood of future accidents through “accident investigation,” a process used to:

  1. Determine the causes (and there may be more than one) of an accident or near miss, and
  2. Recommend appropriate corrective actions to prevent a similar accident or near miss.

Therefore, everyone has a vested interest in reporting accidents to management so they may be investigated. After all, this process can help keep employees safe

Read more