Safety Program: Accident Investigation
- Purpose: The purpose of this program is to establish a systematic approach to investigate and analyze all accidents, incidents, and near-misses in order to identify root causes and implement corrective actions that prevent reoccurrence.
- Scope: This program applies to all employees, contractors, visitors, and others who may be affected by accidents, incidents, or near-misses on the premises or during work-related activities.
- Responsibilities:
3.1 Management:
- Ensure that all accidents, incidents, and near-misses are reported and investigated promptly.
- Provide necessary resources and support to conduct investigations.
- Review investigation reports and ensure that corrective actions are implemented in a timely manner.
- Use investigation findings to improve the safety program and prevent reoccurrence of accidents.
3.2 Employees:
- Report all accidents, incidents, and near-misses to their immediate supervisor or designated person.
- Participate in accident investigations as requested.
- Cooperate with the investigation team and provide accurate and truthful information.
3.3 Investigation Team:
- Conduct thorough investigations using established procedures.
- Identify root causes and contributing factors of the accident, incident, or near-miss.
- Recommend corrective actions that will prevent reoccurrence of similar incidents.
- Procedure:
4.1 Reporting of Accidents, Incidents, and Near-misses: All accidents, incidents, and near-misses must be reported immediately to the immediate supervisor or designated person.
4.2 Investigation Team: An investigation team will be formed to investigate the accident, incident, or near-miss. The team will include members who have knowledge and experience in the type of work being performed, safety procedures, and accident investigation techniques.
4.3 Investigation Procedure: The investigation team will follow the following steps to investigate accidents, incidents, or near-misses:
- Secure the accident scene to prevent further injury or damage.
- Collect evidence, including photographs, video, and physical evidence.
- Interview witnesses and those involved in the accident or incident.
- Analyze the evidence and determine the root cause and contributing factors.
- Develop recommendations for corrective actions to prevent reoccurrence.
4.4 Investigation Report: A written report will be prepared and submitted to management. The report will include the following information:
- Description of the accident, incident, or near-miss.
- Analysis of the root cause and contributing factors.
- Recommended corrective actions.
- Follow-up actions to ensure corrective actions are implemented.
- Training: All employees involved in the investigation process will receive training on accident investigation techniques, including evidence collection, witness interviews, and analysis of root causes.
- Recordkeeping: All accident investigation reports will be maintained in a central file for at least 5 years.
- Review: The accident investigation program will be reviewed annually to ensure its effectiveness and make necessary updates or changes.