AlaCOMP

Safety Awareness: Accident Investigation

January 12, 2019

A comprehensive safety program requires an established, strong set of accident investigation procedures. Important components include the investigation of every incident and consistent reporting of all incidents by employees. Further, simple rules should be applied in every accident investigation:

  • Apply an unbiased approach during the investigation.
  • Interview each witness and injured employee privately.
  • Obtain signed statements from all involved.
  • Conduct a walk-through of the accident.
  • Take photos, or make a sketch of the accident scene.
  • Note any present hazards.
  • Note unsafe acts which contributed to the accident.
  • Publicize the investigation to ensure awareness by all employees.

Applying these simple rules to accident investigation procedures will produce better content from the investigation, strengthen the company safety program and reduce the potential for future accidents and injuries. If you have questions or need additional help, please feel free to contact our Loss Control Consultants.